The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially recognized the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the regional bloc.
In a press release issued on Monday, January 29, 2025, the ECOWAS Commission confirmed that the withdrawal process had been completed following the expiration of a six-month grace period.
Implications of the Withdrawal
Despite their departure, ECOWAS emphasized the need for regional cooperation and urged both member and non-member states to continue recognizing national passports and identity cards bearing the ECOWAS logo.
Additionally, the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS) will remain operational, ensuring that trade continues between member and non-member states. Citizens of the withdrawing nations will also retain visa-free movement and other privileges under existing ECOWAS protocols.
Background to the Exit
The withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger follows a series of military coups that led to deteriorating relations with ECOWAS.
- Mali was suspended after a military coup in August 2020 that ousted President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita. A second coup in 2021 further strained relations, leading to Mali’s formal exit from ECOWAS in 2022.
- Burkina Faso experienced its first coup in January 2022, followed by another in September 2022, worsening its standing with ECOWAS and resulting in prolonged suspension.
- Niger faced a coup in July 2023, which saw the removal of President Mohamed Bazoum. ECOWAS responded with sanctions and membership suspension.
Underlying Reasons for Departure
While the exact motivations behind the countries’ withdrawal remain unclear, analysts point to economic hardship, governance challenges, and increasing dissatisfaction among citizens as key contributing factors. Many in these nations have criticized ECOWAS, blaming the regional body for failing to address pressing socio-economic issues.
With their exit now confirmed, the future of regional integration and cooperation in West Africa remains uncertain.
SOURCE: myjoyonline
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