BURKINA FASO, Mali, and Niger’s decision to leave the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) by January 2025 has spotlighted tensions between the regional bloc and the Sahel states. The trio, battling relentless jihadist violence, announced their departure earlier this year, accusing ECOWAS of favouring France, their former colonial ruler, while failing to address security challenges.
The three countries have since formed the Alliance of Sahel States, pivoting their partnerships towards Russia. Despite the official exit timeline, Senegal’s President Amadou Faye, an ECOWAS-appointed mediator, remains optimistic about keeping the states within the bloc.
‘I am making progress,’ Faye stated at the Doha Forum in Qatar on Sunday. ‘The Alliance of Sahel States can coexist with ECOWAS without causing its disintegration.’
ECOWAS faces internal struggles and reform demands
Since 2020, ECOWAS has been destabilised by a wave of coups, particularly in member states like Mali and Burkina Faso. This turmoil has prompted calls for a sweeping reform of its governance structure.
Faye emphasised the need for modernisation: ‘The bloc’s achievements, such as enhanced movement of people and goods, should not be overshadowed by governance issues. Reform is critical to address today’s challenges.’
An upcoming ECOWAS summit is expected to address these matters, alongside efforts to reconcile differences with the Sahel nations.
Sahel states’ security concerns
The three countries have suffered a decade-long insurgency that began in northern Mali in 2012 and spread across the region. Their frustration with ECOWAS stems from perceived inaction against jihadist violence.
In the meantime, the Alliance of Sahel States strengthens ties with non-traditional allies like Russia, further challenging ECOWAS’s authority.
Senegal’s new direction
President Faye, recently elected on a platform of radical reform, has simultaneously pursued economic partnerships during visits to the UAE and Qatar. ‘Senegal is open to mutually beneficial partnerships that respect its sovereignty,’ he declared, highlighting his vision for a reformed relationship with international players.
As Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger look beyond ECOWAS, the bloc faces a critical crossroads, torn between reforming to retain members and redefining its purpose in a region plagued by instability.
