Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger Officially Exit ECOWAS to Solidify Sahel Alliance

The three nations formalize their withdrawal from the West African bloc, citing sovereignty concerns and a shift toward regional cooperation under the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

• The withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from ECOWAS became official on January 29, 2025, after a year-long notice period following their announcement in January 2024.
• The Alliance of Sahel States (AES), formed by the three nations, aims to redefine regional collaboration and has launched initiatives such as a joint military force to combat jihadist groups.
• The countries criticized ECOWAS for imposing sanctions after military coups and for being influenced by external powers, particularly France, which they accuse of undermining their sovereignty.
• While the three nations remain part of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA), they plan to create a shared currency by 2027 and have introduced a new AES passport to replace the ECOWAS version.
• ECOWAS, now reduced to 12 member states, has expressed willingness to keep dialogue open, but the AES leaders have rejected reconciliation efforts, emphasizing their commitment to an independent path.

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