The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced the withdrawal of the three military-led African states; Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali and the Republic of Niger from the Community.
The exit of these countries from ECOWAS takes effect today, January 29, 2025.
In a statement by the Regional Bloc, ECOWAS urged member states to allow citizens of the three affected countries to continue to enjoy the right of visa free movement, residence and establishment in accordance with the ECOWAS protocols until further notice.
This decision, ECOWAS noted it’s in the spirit of regional solidarity and in the interest of the people, as well as the decision of the ECOWAS Authority to keep ECOWAS’ doors open.
Despite the official exit by the three countries, ECOWAS says member states should recognize National passports and identity cards bearing ECOWAS logo held by the citizens of Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali and the Republic of Niger, until further notice.
Also, the regional bloc wants member states to continue to treat goods and services coming from the three countries in accordance with the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy as well as provide full support and cooperation to ECOWAS officials from the three countries in the course of their assignments for the Community.
“These arrangements will be in place until the full determination of the modalities of our future engagement with the three countries by the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government,” ECOWAS noted in its statement.
The Commission has set up a structure to facilitate discussions on these modalities with each of the three countries.
“This message is necessary to avoid confusion and disruption in the lives and businesses of our people during this transition period,” ECOWAS added.
