Mali, Niger, And Burkina Faso Formalize ECOWAS Exit Amid Regional Tensions

The withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) officially takes effect on Wednesday, marking the culmination of a year-long political standoff that has left the bloc’s future uncertain.

The three countries, all governed by military regimes, had formally notified ECOWAS of their decision to leave the bloc on January 29, 2024.

While the West African organization requires a one-year notice for such withdrawals, calls from ECOWAS to extend the period by six months were ignored.

In their departure, Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have united under a new confederation known as the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

The group has introduced a common passport, set to begin circulation on Wednesday, and announced plans for a unified 5,000-strong military force to combat jihadist violence in the region.

Their military leaders have accused ECOWAS of imposing “inhuman, illegal, and illegitimate” sanctions following the coups that brought them to power.

Additionally, they claim ECOWAS has failed to adequately support their fight against jihadist insurgencies.

A shared disdain for former colonial power France has further united the three nations. The juntas have sought partnerships with countries such as Russia, Turkey, and Iran, challenging the traditional influence of Western powers in the region.

The tension between AES and ECOWAS reached its peak following the July 2023 coup in Niger. ECOWAS imposed severe economic sanctions on Niger and threatened military intervention to reinstate the deposed president. These sanctions have since been lifted, but the rift remains deep.

Disputes between AES members and neighbouring countries have also emerged. Niger has accused Benin of hosting jihadist training camps and claims Nigeria is serving as a “rear base” to destabilize the region. Both Benin and Nigeria have denied the allegations.

The loss of these three founding members is expected to significantly weaken ECOWAS’s ability to address political crises within the region.