The Sahel states of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have officially withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), effective January 29, 2025. This decision follows a year of escalating tensions and dissatisfaction with the bloc, which has been criticized for its perceived alignment with former colonial power France.
All three nations are currently governed by military juntas that came to power through coups in recent years. In September, they formed their own security alliance called the Alliance of Sahel States, indicating a shift in regional dynamics.
ECOWAS acknowledged the withdrawal, which affects approximately 73 million people and reduces the bloc's geographical area by more than half. Despite this significant change, ECOWAS has expressed a desire to keep its doors open, allowing the three countries to retain certain membership privileges, such as free movement within the region.
The departure of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger has raised concerns among West Africans regarding the bloc's effectiveness in representing their interests and utilizing the region's abundant natural resources. Although the economic output of ECOWAS will only decline by 8%, these countries are among the least developed globally, with their resources largely exploited by foreign companies.
In addition to political challenges, the three nations are grappling with threats from Islamist terrorist groups, further complicating the security landscape in the region.