The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is facing a major crisis as three junta-led countries – Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger – have signed a treaty establishing the Alliance of Sahel States, signaling their intent to leave the regional bloc. This move threatens the stability and integrity of ECOWAS, which has been urging the three countries to return to democratic rule.
ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray expressed deep concern, stating that the region risks disintegration and worsening insecurity if the three countries leave. He highlighted the significant benefits of the 50-year-old bloc, including freedom of movement and a common market of 400 million people, all of which are under threat.
Touray also warned of potential economic repercussions, as funding for projects worth over $500 million in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger could be stopped or suspended. He emphasized that the withdrawal would severely impact security cooperation, especially intelligence sharing and efforts to combat terrorism in the region.
ECOWAS leaders are currently holding a summit in Abuja, Nigeria, to discuss the implications of the treaty and the future of the bloc. Key topics on the agenda include the creation of a regional standby force to fight terrorism and the potential implementation of a regional currency.
The signing of the Alliance of Sahel States treaty by the three juntas marks a major turning point in the region. The juntas, which seized power in a series of coups between 2020 and 2023, have severed military and diplomatic ties with regional allies and Western powers, expressing their frustration with external pressure and their desire for greater autonomy.
The future of ECOWAS is now uncertain as the bloc faces a crucial test of its resilience and ability to address the growing tensions within the region. The outcome of the ongoing summit will have significant implications for the stability and development of West Africa.