Three West African nations, Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, have left the Economic Community of West African States after military intervention.
The countries expressed their views in a coordinated press release shown on television and posted online on Sunday.
“Faced with this continuing situation, Their Excellencies, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, Colonel Assimi Goïta and Brigadier General Abdourahamane Tiani, respectively Heads of State of Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali and the Republic of Niger, taking all their responsibilities in the face of history and responding to the expectations, concerns and aspirations of their populations, decide in complete sovereignty on the immediate withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States,” the joint statement dated January 28 read.
The past three years have been a roller coaster ride for Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, three Saharan nations linked by geography, struggle, and, now, a desire for union.
In 2020, Mali experienced two military coups in quick succession, further destabilizing the already shaky democracy. Jihadist activities increased, and civilian casualties from attacks rose.
In 2021, Niger and Burkina Faso followed suit, with their own coups in 2021. The entire region was dealing with increased food insecurity and the COVID-19 epidemic, which exacerbated existing vulnerabilities.
Relations with Former Colonial Powers France deteriorated, with growing anger towards the French military presence in the region. Mali expelled French soldiers and sought assistance from Russia.
Despite occasional military victories, jihadist groups continued to commit assaults and extend their influence, especially in rural regions.
In an unprecedented move, the three countries signed a mutual defense contract called the “Alliance of Sahel States,” with the goal of combating threats jointly.
In a daring vision for regional unity and power, the three countries’ foreign ministers proposed joining a confederation, which would eventually evolve to a full-fledged federation.
Tensions arose with the Economic Community of West African States over sanctions imposed on Mali and Burkina Faso following their coups. The coup in Niger exacerbated regional tensions.
Navigating the fallout of this unprecedented mass of the ECOWAS bloc withdrawal will require diplomatic finesse and a firm commitment to democracy and regional unity.
