Mali and Burkina Faso have formally communicated their decision to withdraw from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and indications suggest that Niger may soon join them in this significant move.
The military regimes governing these nations have declared their intent to exit the regional bloc, citing concerns over perceived threats to their sovereignty.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry of Mali shared a copy of its formal notice to ECOWAS with the Agence France-Presse (AFP), while Burkina Faso’s official news agency independently confirmed its own notification. Although Niger has not released official information, the coordinated nature of the withdrawal was underscored by the joint statements from Mali and Burkina Faso.
ECOWAS, in response, stated that it is awaiting “formal and direct notification” from the concerned member countries. As per the bloc’s statutes, the withdrawal process cannot take effect until at least a year after the notification.
These three nations, serving as founding members of ECOWAS since 1975, have faced sanctions from the regional group following military coups that led to the displacement of elected civilian governments. Presently, they are part of an Alliance of Sahel States (AES), accusing ECOWAS of being swayed by “foreign powers” and betraying its foundational principles, considering it a threat to member states.
Nigeria, a key regional player and the host of ECOWAS, expressed regret over the departure of Mali, Burkina Faso, and potentially Niger. In a statement released late Monday, Nigeria’s Foreign Ministry emphasized its commitment to due process, as well as the rights and welfare of citizens in ECOWAS member states. The statement criticized the actions of the “unelected leaders” in the departing nations, accusing them of denying their citizens fundamental rights.
Despite these developments, Nigeria remains “open for engagement” with the departing countries and has urged the international community to continue supporting ECOWAS and its vision for regional partnership and integration. The situation casts a shadow on the stability of the West African region, prompting concerns about the future dynamics of regional cooperation and diplomatic relations.
