Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have officially withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), marking an unprecedented fracture in the regional bloc’s nearly 50-year history. The announcement, made by ECOWAS on Wednesday, confirms that the yearlong departure process is now complete.
The three military-led governments initially declared their intent to leave in January 2024 after ECOWAS pressured Niger to reinstate civilian rule following a coup.
Despite efforts to prevent the split, the bloc acknowledged that the exit “has become effective today” but emphasized that its “doors remain open” to the departing nations.
The breakaway states, all ruled by military juntas, have accused ECOWAS of serving foreign interests, particularly those of France, their former colonial ruler.
Over the past year, tensions between the bloc and the three nations have escalated, with leaders in Niamey, Bamako, and Ouagadougou shifting their allegiances toward Russia while forming their own security alliance, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
ECOWAS, established in 1975, has long been a cornerstone of political and economic cooperation in West Africa. The bloc has played a key role in responding to regional instability, including conflicts fueled by armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and ISIL (ISIS).
However, its influence has waned in recent years, particularly in countries where citizens feel excluded from the benefits of economic integration.
The withdrawal of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso signals a deepening divide between ECOWAS and military regimes that have taken power through coups. These governments argue that the bloc has failed to address their security concerns while siding with Western powers.
In response, they have turned to alternative alliances, seeking closer military cooperation with Russia.
The shift was evident in September when the three nations formally launched the AES, a pact aimed at mutual defense against both insurgencies and potential external threats.
Since then, their leaders have continued to distance themselves from ECOWAS, portraying the organization as ineffective and out of touch with the realities of governance in the Sahel.
Uncertain Future for Regional Stability
The departure of the three nations raises significant questions about the future of ECOWAS and its ability to maintain regional stability. With the bloc already struggling to contain a wave of military takeovers, the loss of these key members could further weaken its authority.
Analysts warn that the split may complicate efforts to restore democratic governance and combat extremist violence in the Sahel.
The decision also threatens economic ties, as ECOWAS membership provides benefits such as visa-free travel and trade privileges, which may now be in jeopardy for citizens of the departing nations.
Despite the withdrawal, ECOWAS has urged its remaining member states to continue granting certain rights to individuals from Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, including free movement and trade access. However, it remains unclear how these provisions will be enforced.
As the region grapples with shifting alliances and growing security threats, the split between ECOWAS and the three military-led nations marks a turning point in West African politics. Whether the breakaway states can sustain their alternative vision for regional cooperation or whether ECOWAS will find a way to reassert its influence remains to be seen.
READ ALSO: Prof. Kwaku Asare Decries Parliament’s Lax Approach to Ministerial Vetting
