Leaders of the West African regional bloc, Ecowas, have confirmed the withdrawal of three military-ruled nations—Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—while granting a six-month grace period for reconsideration. These countries plan to exit Ecowas in January due to their refusal to reinstate democratic governance.
This decision marks a significant setback for Ecowas, which was founded in 1975 to enhance economic and political integration across West Africa. The departure of these founding members diminishes what was once regarded as Africa’s most robust trading alliance.
Currently, citizens of Ecowas can freely live and work in member states, and goods move without hindrance. However, there has been no announcement about potential restrictions on the flow of people and goods from the departing countries, which have established a new coalition known as the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
The Ecowas Commission has been tasked with addressing these critical developments and exploring future collaboration between the two groups. Recently, the AES declared visa-free travel and residency rights for Ecowas citizens, emphasizing a commitment to strengthen long-standing ties among African nations.
Despite being landlocked and economically challenged, the departing states may face demographic shifts as most migrants traditionally seek opportunities in wealthier coastal countries. Ecowas leaders expressed their respect for the decision to leave but emphasized the transitional period, allowing the trio to reconsider their membership from January 29 to July 29, 2025.
Ongoing negotiations, led by Senegal’s President and Togo’s President, aim to mediate the situation. However, the military juntas of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger remain steadfast in their decision to withdraw, labeling it as “irreversible” following a joint statement after a ministerial meeting in Niamey.
This exit poses threats to regional unity and hampers efforts for enhanced economic and security cooperation. Ecowas commission head Omar Touray expressed deep concern over this development and praised the ongoing mediation efforts.
With the impending departure of these nations, Ecowas will lose 76 million of its 446 million population and over half of its geographical area. Leaders of the AES affirm that the rights of Ecowas citizens to move and reside will continue to be upheld within their new bloc, indicating a desire to maintain amicable relations despite their exit.
Relations have soured since military coups occurred in Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali, with Ecowas condemning these actions and suspending their membership in hopes of restoring civilian rule. The junta leaders have since aligned themselves more closely with Russia, expressing grievances that Ecowas is aligned with Western interests while seeking external support to combat escalating insurgencies in the region.
