Breaking Ties: Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Officially Exit ECOWAS
The regional bloc faces a turning point as three key member states part ways, with measures in place to ensure continuity for citizens and trade
- Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have officially withdrawn from ECOWAS, effective January 29
- ECOWAS ensures trade benefits and visa-free movement for citizens of the three countries remain intact
- The bloc remains open to future collaboration with the departing nations
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has formally acknowledged the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the regional bloc, effective today, January 29.
In a press statement released by the ECOWAS Commission, the organisation emphasised its unwavering commitment to regional solidarity while outlining transitional measures to minimise disruptions for citizens and businesses during this period.
This withdrawal signals a significant shift in the regional dynamics of West Africa, as the three nations have played pivotal roles in ECOWAS’ integration agenda. Despite their departure, ECOWAS reaffirmed its openness to future collaboration and engagement with these nations.
To ensure continuity and mitigate potential disruptions, ECOWAS issued directives to member states, including:
- Recognising national passports and identity cards with the ECOWAS logo held by citizens of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.
- Maintaining trade benefits under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) for goods and services originating from these countries.
- Preserving citizens’ rights to visa-free movement, residence, and establishment within ECOWAS territories.
These interim measures will remain in effect until the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government determines a comprehensive framework for future relations with the three countries.
Below is the full press statement.
