Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso officially exit ECOWAS
The military-led governments of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have officially withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as of January 29, 2025.
ECOWAS confirmed the withdrawal in a statement, which also clarified that passports and identity cards bearing the ECOWAS logo will remain valid for travel within the region.
Trade and economic activities will continue under the existing ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme, allowing the free movement of goods and services from the three countries. Additionally, citizens of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso will retain their rights to visa-free movement, residence, and establishment in other ECOWAS member states until further notice.
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ECOWAS urged continued cooperation with officials from the three countries in their ongoing roles within the organization, adding that these arrangements will remain in place until the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government determines the future terms of engagement with the three nations.
The three countries had notified ECOWAS of their intention to withdraw in January 2024, citing the organization’s reliance on France, which has become a common adversary for the juntas. Instead, they are seeking new partnerships with countries such as Russia, Turkey, and Iran.
ECOWAS required a one-year notice period for the withdrawal, which was completed on Wednesday. In response, the three nations have formed a new confederation called the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
In Niger, thousands of people, including military personnel, gathered in the capital, Niamey, before marching towards the national assembly in a show of support for the junta.
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