Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso Withdraw from ECOWAS

Military Juntas Criticize Bloc's Sanctions, Form Alliance of Sahel States

Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have announced their immediate withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), accusing the regional bloc of becoming a threat to member states.
The three countries, all led by military juntas, have criticized ECOWAS for its 'inhumane' sanctions aimed at reversing their recent coups.
The countries formed a mutual defense pact in September called the Alliance of Sahel States, distancing themselves from former colonial power France and strengthening ties with Russia.
The withdrawal could have significant economic and political implications, as ECOWAS guarantees visa-free travel and the right of settlement and work in member countries.
ECOWAS, which has not yet received formal notification of the withdrawal, states that member countries wishing to withdraw must give written notice a year in advance and continue to abide by its provisions during that year.