Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have officially withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The withdrawal, first announced on January 29, 2024, took effect on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, after the mandatory one-year notice period required by ECOWAS regulations.
Now united under the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), the three Sahel nations have accused ECOWAS of imposing “inhuman, illegal, and illegitimate” sanctions in response to their military takeovers.
The ruling juntas also criticized the bloc for failing to support their fight against jihadist insurgencies and for allegedly prioritizing the interests of their former colonial ruler, France.
As part of their shift in foreign alliances, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have strengthened ties with Russia, Turkey, and Iran while moving away from Western influence.
Despite their exit, ECOWAS has introduced transitional measures to minimize disruptions in trade and mobility for citizens of the three countries:
ECOWAS-branded passports and identity cards will remain valid for travel within member states.
Goods and services from the three nations will still benefit from the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS).
Visa-free movement, residence, and establishment rights for their citizens will continue under existing ECOWAS protocols.
The regional bloc also announced plans to establish a framework for discussions on future relations between ECOWAS and the departing nations.
Follow Parallel Facts on WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCQSAoHgZWiDjR3Kn2E
