Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have officially exited ECOWAS, following a series of diplomatic tensions and military coups. Their withdrawal raises uncertainties for the organization, coinciding with ECOWAS’s 50th anniversary. The three countries criticized ECOWAS sanctions and created the Alliance of Sahel States, while maintaining existing travel and trade agreements until further decisions are made.

Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have officially withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), marking a significant diplomatic shift after more than a year of rising tensions. Their exit was finalized on Wednesday, coinciding with ECOWAS’s 50th anniversary, raising questions about the future stability of the organization. Although ECOWAS leadership expressed a willingness to keep communication channels open, the departure of these founding members poses challenges ahead.

The withdrawal followed a series of coups, most notably in Niger in July 2023, after prior military takeovers in Mali and Burkina Faso in 2020. In response to the situation, ECOWAS had considered military intervention to restore the previous government and imposed sanctions on Niger, which have since been lifted. The three nations announced their intent to exit in January 2024; however, the organization mandates a one-year notice period for withdrawals.

Omar Alieu Touray, the head of ECOWAS, affirmed the bloc’s openness for reinstatement discussions, inviting representatives of the three nations to engage in technical meetings about formal withdrawal protocols. Meanwhile, the military governments of the three countries criticized ECOWAS for what they described as “inhuman, illegal, and illegitimate” sanctions, leading to their decision to create the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

Despite their withdrawal, ECOWAS called on member countries to continue recognizing passports issued by the three nations with the ECOWAS emblem. The community indicated that citizens from these countries will still enjoy visa-free movement and benefits under existing protocols until a revision is made. Moreover, goods from these states will be treated under the same rules unless further notices dictate otherwise.

The military regimes also expressed dissatisfaction with ECOWAS’s perceived inability to assist in combating jihadism and alleged close ties to France. Consequently, they have sought aid from alternative sources, including Russia, Iran, and Turkey. Some ECOWAS member states, such as Togo and Ghana, have begun to re-establish relations with the three countries, signaling potential shifts within the regional bloc.

The recent departure of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from ECOWAS represents a crucial turning point in West African politics. The Economic Community of West African States was formed to promote economic integration and maintain peace in the region. The withdrawal stems from military coups and escalating tensions with the organization over sanctions, raising concerns about regional stability and cooperation as these countries pivot towards new alliances.

The withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from ECOWAS signifies a notable shift in West African dynamics, raising issues of governance, security, and regional identity. As these nations move towards establishing the Alliance of Sahel States, the future of ECOWAS stands uncertain. Established protocols concerning travel and trade will remain in place for now, but the long-term impacts of this departure will require careful observation and potential diplomatic interventions.

Original Source: punchng.com

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