Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have officially left the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), ending over a year of tense negotiations.
Their departure weakens West Africa’s most influential regional bloc and raises concerns about trade, security, and economic stability.
The three nations, all under military rule, say the move gives them greater independence from foreign influence. But analysts warn that their economies—already fragile and landlocked—could suffer without ECOWAS support. “If they do not manage this transition well, it could backfire,” Nigerian international affairs expert Ilyasu Gadu told the BBC.
Why Did They Leave?
Tensions with ECOWAS escalated after the bloc imposed heavy sanctions on Niger following its 2023 coup. These included border closures, a no-fly zone, and frozen assets at the regional central bank. The sanctions, intended to pressure the junta into restoring civilian rule, instead pushed the three nations closer together.
Mali and Burkina Faso called the sanctions “inhuman” and vowed to support Niger against any ECOWAS military intervention. In response, the three countries formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) in September 2023, signaling their intent to break away. By January 2024, they formally notified ECOWAS of their exit.
What Changes for These Countries?
Leaving ECOWAS means giving up benefits like visa-free travel and trade agreements. However, the bloc has announced that it will still recognize passports and allow free movement for Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso citizens—for now.
Despite these assurances, businesses and residents fear disruptions. “We have the same people, the same economic realities—this division is not in our best interest,” said Omar Hama, a resident of Niger. Others, like Malian journalist Fatouma Harber, worry about economic setbacks but hope the AES will provide a viable alternative.
How Will ECOWAS Be Affected?
The loss of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso reduces ECOWAS’ population by 76 million and strips it of over half its land area. Some fear this weakens regional unity, especially in security matters. The Sahel is one of the most dangerous regions in the world, with nearly half of all global terrorism deaths occurring there, according to the UN.
ECOWAS had been providing military and logistical support to fight jihadist groups in the region. Now, the three countries must rely more on their alliance—and on military assistance from Russia, which has increased its presence in the Sahel.
What’s Next?
ECOWAS has left the door open for the three nations to return, offering a six-month grace period to reconsider. “Any state can decide to come back at any time,” ECOWAS Commission head Omar Alieu Touray said on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso are pushing ahead with their plans. They announced the launch of AES passports and the creation of a joint military force of 5,000 troops to combat terrorism.
For now, the region remains divided. Whether this split leads to greater independence or deeper instability will depend on how both ECOWAS and the AES navigate the road ahead.
