The West African regional bloc ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) officially recognized the withdrawal of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso. This decision comes after a year of diplomatic tensions, particularly due to military coups and disagreements with ECOWAS’ stance on regional governance and external alliances. The development represents a shift in the regional political landscape and highlights growing differences between the three countries and ECOWAS.
Key Points
Formal Recognition of Withdrawal
- ECOWAS officially acknowledged the withdrawal of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso after prolonged tensions since the July 2023 coup in Niger.
- The decision was made public in a statement by ECOWAS.
Diplomatic Tensions
- Relations between the three countries and ECOWAS deteriorated following the 2023 coup in Niger, which ousted President Mohamed Bazoum.
- ECOWAS demanded the reinstatement of Bazoum and threatened military intervention, worsening relations.
Reasons for Withdrawal
- Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso accused ECOWAS of failing to protect member states and aligning too closely with foreign powers.
- The trio criticized ECOWAS for its lack of support in the face of internal security threats, such as jihadist attacks and armed gangs.
Formation of Alliance of Sahel States
- In response to ECOWAS, the three nations formed the Alliance of Sahel States, a confederation aimed at tackling common security challenges in the region.
- The trio also strengthened diplomatic and military ties with Russia, Turkey, and Iran.
ECOWAS’ Response
- ECOWAS President Omar Touray reiterated that the bloc’s decision was made in the spirit of “regional solidarity” and for the “interest of the people.”
- ECOWAS invited the three countries to a technical meeting and left the door open for them to rejoin in the future.
Trade and Travel
- Despite the withdrawal, ECOWAS urged its remaining 12 member states to continue recognizing the national passports of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso.
- The bloc also encouraged continued trade with these nations until further notice.
Popular Support for the Exit
- In Niger and Burkina Faso, thousands rallied in support of their countries’ decision to leave ECOWAS.
- The support for withdrawal reflected local dissatisfaction with ECOWAS and its response to regional security issues.
ECOWAS’s Challenges
- ECOWAS, founded in 1975, has faced increasing difficulties in maintaining unity and influence, particularly in light of recent military takeovers in West Africa.
- A six-month grace period was granted to the three countries in December to reconsider their decision, but the official withdrawal stands as of January 2025.
Summary/Static | Details |
Why in the news? | Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso Break Ties with ECOWAS |
ECOWAS Recognition | ECOWAS formally recognized the withdrawal of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso. |
Diplomatic Tensions | Tensions escalated after the July 2023 coup in Niger and ECOWAS’ demand for President Bazoum’s reinstatement. |
Reasons for Withdrawal | Accusations of ECOWAS failing to protect members and aligning with foreign powers, ignoring internal security challenges. |
Alliance of Sahel States | Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso formed a new confederation to address regional security issues and forged ties with Russia, Turkey, and Iran. |
ECOWAS’ Response | ECOWAS urged continued travel and trade relations and invited the three countries to a technical meeting, with hopes of future re-engagement. |
Popular Support | Large public support in Niger and Burkina Faso for the decision to exit ECOWAS, especially in light of security concerns. |
ECOWAS’ Struggles | ECOWAS faces increased instability due to military takeovers in the region, weakening its political and economic influence. |
Grace Period | ECOWAS granted a six-month grace period for reconsideration, but the withdrawal was finalized in January 2025. |