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Published on 2024-02-26 11:00:32
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has taken significant steps towards resuming dialogue with Sahel juntas by lifting financial and economic sanctions against Guinea and Mali. This decision was made following an extraordinary summit held to discuss politics, peace, and security in the region, particularly focusing on recent developments in the Republic of Niger. However, Burkina Faso, another state governed by military regimes since 2020 and also subjected to ECOWAS sanctions, was not mentioned in the final statement.
After the military takeovers in Niger, Guinea, and Mali, ECOWAS had imposed sanctions on these countries. The sanctions included banning financial transactions with member institutions and restrictions on the recruitment of citizens for positions within ECOWAS institutions. In Guinea, the sanctions were put in place a year after Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya seized power by overthrowing President Alpha Condé in September 2021. Recently, the junta leader dissolved the government in office since July 2022 by decree.
Similarly, in Mali, which has seen two coups in 2020 and 2021, ECOWAS had imposed economic and financial sanctions. These sanctions were lifted in July 2022 after the ruling junta announced its transition timetable. ECOWAS announced the immediate lifting of the heaviest sanctions imposed on Niger since the military regime took power in Niamey, overthrowing elected President Mohamed Bazoum in July.
The decision to lift sanctions against Guinea and Mali signifies ECOWAS’ willingness to engage in dialogue with these military regimes. However, Burkina Faso, which is also governed by a military regime since 2020, was not mentioned in the regional organization’s final statement. It is important to note that Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have indicated their intention to leave ECOWAS and have instead formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), signaling a shift in alliances away from France towards closer ties with Russia.
Overall, ECOWAS’ decision to lift sanctions against Guinea and Mali reflects a strategic move towards diplomacy and engagement with Sahel juntas. By easing economic and financial restrictions, the regional organization aims to facilitate dialogue and cooperation in a region plagued by political instability and military takeovers. As the situation continues to evolve, it will be crucial for ECOWAS to navigate the complex dynamics and challenges in the Sahel region to promote peace, security, and stability.
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