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In a dramatic move, the governments of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger announced their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Sunday, January 28th.
This decision, met with mixed reactions, marks a significant shift in regional alliances and throws a spotlight on Morocco's growing influence in the Sahel.
Citing «complete responsibility» to their people, Colonel Abdoulaye Maïga, spokesperson for Mali's transitional government, stated, «This withdrawal has immediate effect... ECOWAS has adopted an 'irrational and unacceptable posture' by imposing illegal, illegitimate, inhumane and irresponsible sanctions... Acts which have further weakened populations already damaged by years of terrorist violence».
The three states accuse ECOWAS of failing to deliver on promises of assistance against the ever-present threat of terrorism and insecurity. Instead, they argue, the regional organization imposed sanctions that inflicted additional suffering on their already struggling populations. Furthermore, they express suspicion of «foreign powers» exerting undue influence within ECOWAS.
The Sahelian states' hand in hand with Morocco?
This move signifies a bold step towards self-reliance for these Sahelian nations. They had previously left the France-led G5 Sahel anti-terrorism group and created their own «Alliance of Sahel States» for regional security cooperation. This further emphasizes their desire to chart their own course.
Meanwhile, a closer look reveals growing ties between these nations and Morocco. They welcomed Morocco's «Atlantic access initiative» launched in December 2023, promoting regional trade and economic development. This project offers an alternative route to the sea, bypassing logistical hurdles posed by landlocked positions. While Mauritania, for now, maintains its alliance with ECOWAS, the invitation from Morocco remains open.
Morocco's stance regarding the recent coups in these Sahelian states contrasts sharply with that of ECOWAS and other international actors. Morocco refrained from condemnation and even acknowledged the new leadership in Chad. This pragmatic approach has led to the development of warmer relations between these nations.
ECOWAS committed to negotiated solution after Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger exit
Following the sudden announcement by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger of their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the organization issued a statement on Sunday affirming its commitment to «finding a negotiated solution to the political impasse».
«Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali remain crucial members of the Community», the ECOWAS Commission emphasized in the release. «The Authority [of Heads of State] remains determined to seek a negotiated resolution to the current political issues».
This move by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger could have significant ramifications, potentially impacting the movement of goods and people, particularly due to their landlocked status. Visa and tax exemptions could also be affected, possibly leading to price increases.
