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AES Countries Officially Severe Relations with ECOWAS

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AES Countries Officially Severe Relations with ECOWAS

(3 Minutes Read)

The 15-nation bloc of ECOWAS was formed in 1975 to “promote economic integration” in the region. But analysts say it has lost its support among people in parts of West Africa, in recent years. They see it as representing only the interests of the leaders and not that of the masses.

The junta-led West African nations of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso formally withdrew from ECOWAS on Wednesday. The move was a year-long process during which the regional bloc tried to avert their departure. ECOWAS said that its doors remain open should any of the three countries decide to return.

It asked member nations to continue according to their membership privileges, including free movement within the region with an ECOWAS passport. It also decided to treat goods and services coming from the three countries by ECOWAS regulations.

The 15-nation bloc of ECOWAS was formed in 1975 to “promote economic integration” in the region. But analysts say it has lost its support among people in parts of West Africa, in recent years. They see it as representing only the interests of the leaders and not that of the masses.

Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso last year formed the Alliance of Sahel States as political affinities in the region changed. Their relations with ECOWAS have been tense after military coups took place in Mali in 2020, Burkina Faso in 2022, and Niger last July.

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It is the first time since ECOWAS was formed, that members have withdrawn in what is seen as an unprecedented blow to the group. Analysts say the departure of the three countries could threaten efforts to return to democracy and stabilization of the increasingly fragile region.