Announcement from ECOWAS Summit
On Sunday, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) announced that the military juntas governing Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have decided to withdraw from the organization, with their membership ending on January 29, 2025. This was part of the conclusions from the 66th Ordinary Session held in Abuja.
Respect for National Decisions
ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray announced the bloc’s respect for the sovereign decision of these three nations to leave, as per Article 91 of the ECOWAS treaties which respects member states’ autonomy.
Six-Month Transition Window
A six-month transition period, from January 29 to July 29, 2025, has been established to facilitate further dialogue. During this time, the possibility remains open for these countries to opt back into ECOWAS, with negotiations continuing under the leadership of the Presidents of Senegal and Togo.
Acknowledgment of Diplomatic Efforts
The session highlighted the commendable diplomatic work by Presidents Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal and Faure Gnassingbé of Togo, alongside ECOWAS Chairman Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for their efforts in seeking a resolution to this departure.
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Future Steps Post-Transition
ECOWAS has directed its President of the Commission to begin formal withdrawal proceedings after January 29, 2025, and to develop contingency plans. An extraordinary meeting of the Council of Ministers is scheduled for the second quarter of 2025 to discuss and finalize the terms of separation and future relations with these countries.
This move signifies a major shift in regional politics, potentially affecting economic ties, security, and the broader integration goals of West Africa.
