ECOWAS Announces Official Exit of Junta-Led States Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger

ECOWAS has officially announced the exit of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from its membership, effective January 29, 2025. These countries withdrew after a series of military coups and subsequent demands for democratic restoration. They have since formed the Alliance of Sahel States and introduced their biometric passports, while ECOWAS seeks to continue diplomatic relations and trade despite the withdrawal.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) formally announced the exit of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from its membership, effective January 29, 2025. This development follows the three nations’ decision to withdraw from the bloc last year amidst ongoing military rule resulting from coups over the past five years. In response to the demands for a return to democratic governance, these states opted to form an alliance independent of ECOWAS.

Consequently, the junta-led governments of the three countries have established the Alliance of Sahel States, with a focus on creating their own biometric passports. In a statement, ECOWAS expressed its willingness to maintain a degree of engagement with the exiting nations by recognizing their national passports that bear the ECOWAS logo for trade and diplomatic purposes. The remaining members have indicated a commitment to promoting cooperation despite their departure from the bloc.

Previously, ECOWAS had offered a six-month grace period for the countries to reconsider their withdrawal, acknowledging the complex political landscape in the region. The decision to allow continued trade under existing agreements reflects a desire for diplomatic relations while respecting the sovereignty of the three nations. The situation underscores the challenges faced by ECOWAS in fostering stability and democratic governance in West Africa.

This formal exit marks a significant shift within ECOWAS, a 15-member body historically focused on regional integration and collaboration. The military coups, particularly in Niger in 2023, have put immense pressure on the bloc to enforce democratic norms. By acknowledging these withdrawals and exploring the implications of their new alliance, ECOWAS aims to navigate the evolving geopolitical landscape in West Africa.

The announcement by ECOWAS regarding the exit of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger comes in the wake of an alarming trend of coups over recent years that have resulted in military governance within the region. ECOWAS has traditionally promoted democratic rule and stability but has encountered significant obstacles in enforcing these principles. The formation of the Alliance of Sahel States by the three countries highlights their intent to pursue alternative frameworks for governance and collaboration, indicating a pivotal moment in West African politics.

The formal withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from ECOWAS signifies a critical juncture for regional governance and political stability. While the bloc strives to keep avenues for diplomacy open, the establishment of the Alliance of Sahel States illustrates a shift toward alternate alliances in response to ongoing military governance. ECOWAS faces the challenge of balancing its objectives of regional integration with the realities of growing divergence among its member states.

Original Source: www.voanews.com