The Foreign Affairs Ministers of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are currently meeting in Abuja, Nigeria, to address the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Republic from the organization.
Additionally, the ministers will deliberate on the widespread protests in Senegal, triggered by the postponement of the country’s presidential elections.
Dr. Alieu Touray, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, mentioned that the meeting will examine the notification of withdrawal from the three countries and its broader implications.
On January 27, 2024, the military-led West African nations announced their immediate withdrawal from ECOWAS, citing concerns about the organization posing a threat to its members.
Tensions between these countries and ECOWAS escalated after coups in Niger (July 2023), Burkina Faso (2022), and Mali (2020).
All three nations faced suspension from ECOWAS, with Niger and Mali enduring severe sanctions.
In a joint statement, the three countries accused ECOWAS of becoming a threat to its members, being “under the influence of foreign powers,” and betraying its founding principles.
They also alleged that the regional body failed to support their efforts against “terrorism and insecurity” while imposing “illegal, illegitimate, inhumane, and irresponsible sanctions” following military coups.
