The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially recognized the departure of three former member states: Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.
Their withdrawal took effect on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, after the completion of a one-year notice period.
In an effort to maintain regional ties, ECOWAS has called on member states to continue recognizing national passports from the three countries that bear the ECOWAS logo until further notice.
A statement from ECOWAS emphasized that its doors remain open for further engagement with the departing nations. It also urged member states to uphold recognition of national passports and identity cards with the ECOWAS logo and to continue treating goods and services from these countries under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy.
Additionally, ECOWAS requested that citizens of the three nations retain visa-free movement, residence, and establishment rights under existing ECOWAS protocols. It also encouraged full support and cooperation for ECOWAS officials from these countries in their ongoing assignments.
“These arrangements will remain in place until the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government determines the modalities for future engagement with the three countries,” the statement read.
ECOWAS has established a structure to facilitate discussions on future relations, aiming to prevent confusion and minimize disruptions for citizens and businesses during this transition period.
Meanwhile, demonstrations supporting the withdrawal took place in Niger and Burkina Faso on Tuesday, with large crowds rallying in favor of their countries’ decision to leave the regional bloc.
