Rédaction Africa Links 24 with AFP
Published on 2024-01-30 17:09:41
Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have all notified the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) of their intention to withdraw from the regional bloc. This decision was jointly announced by the military leaders of the three countries, citing ongoing challenges related to jihadist violence and poverty. The respective regime changes in Niger in July, Burkina Faso in 2022, and Mali in 2020 have strained the relationship between the countries and ECOWAS, leading to their decision to exit the organization.
Niger has formally submitted a letter to ECOWAS, indicating its withdrawal from the regional body. The “note verbale” outlining this decision marks the beginning of a one-year period before the withdrawal takes effect. During this time, the countries are still bound by their membership obligations as per the bloc’s statutes. Mali and Burkina Faso have also sent formal notifications of their withdrawal to ECOWAS, triggering a similar process.
The three countries have faced suspension and heavy sanctions from ECOWAS, with the organization leaving open the possibility of military intervention to restore constitutional order in Niger. Despite this, ECOWAS has expressed its desire for a negotiated solution to the political impasse with all three countries. The African Union has also voiced its deep regret over the decision by the military regimes to withdraw from the regional bloc.
The announcement of the withdrawal from ECOWAS comes at a time of ongoing political and security challenges in the region, with the bloc seeking to restore civilian rule in the affected countries. The decisions by the three countries to exit ECOWAS will have far-reaching implications for the future of the organization and its efforts to promote peace, stability, and economic development in West Africa.
