Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Withdraw from ECOWAS, Raising Concerns Over Regional Cohesion
Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have officially withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), marking a significant shift in the regional bloc and raising concerns about its future unity.
In response, ECOWAS issued a statement on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, outlining measures to minimize disruptions caused by the withdrawal.
Emphasizing regional solidarity, ECOWAS has decided to keep its doors open and has instructed relevant authorities within and outside its member states to continue recognizing national passports and identity cards bearing the ECOWAS logo for citizens of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger until further notice.
On trade relations, the statement urged ECOWAS members to maintain the existing trade framework with the departing nations. “Goods and services from these countries should continue to be treated in accordance with the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS) and investment policies,” it said.
Furthermore, ECOWAS reassured that citizens of the three countries would retain their rights to mobility within the region. “Affected citizens will continue to enjoy visa-free movement, residence, and establishment in accordance with ECOWAS protocols,” the statement affirmed.
The regional body also called for ongoing collaboration with officials from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. “Support and cooperation should be provided to ECOWAS officials from these countries during their assignments for the Community,” it stated.
To manage the transition, ECOWAS has established a dedicated structure to facilitate discussions with the three nations. These interim measures will remain in place until the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government determines the framework for future engagement.
“This approach is essential to prevent confusion and disruption in the lives and businesses of our people during this transition period,” ECOWAS emphasized.
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