Citizens’ privileges remain even though Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger have left – ECOWAS

On January 29, 2024, the three countries led by military regimes formally notified ECOWAS of their desire for “immediate” withdrawal. But the texts of the West African organisation required one year’s notice for it to be effective.

Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger are now united in a confederation called the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

Their military rulers accuse ECOWAS of having imposed “inhuman, illegal and illegitimate” sanctions against them after the coups that brought them to power.

They also believe that the West African organisation has not helped them enough to fight jihadist violence. ECOWAS, they argue, is subservient to their former colonial ruler, France.

Paris has become the common enemy of these juntas, which now favour partnerships with countries such as Russia, Turkey, and Iran.

In a statement on Wednesday, ECOWAS announced that the Alliance of Sahel States’ withdrawal has become effective.

Despite the withdrawal, the bloc said citizens of the three countries would continue to enjoy certain regional benefits. “In the spirit of regional solidarity and in the interest of the people, all relevant authorities within and outside ECOWAS Member States are requested to recognize national passports and identity cards bearing the ECOWAS logo held by citizens of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, until further notice,” the statement read.

It added that goods and services from the three countries would still be treated under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy. Additionally, citizens of the three countries would retain their “right of visa-free movement, residence, and establishment in accordance with ECOWAS protocols until further notice.”

ECOWAS noted that these measures aim to “avoid confusion and disruption in the lives and businesses of our people during this transition period.” It also announced that a structure has been set up to facilitate discussions on the future relationship between the bloc and the three countries.