Exit of Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso from ECOWAS now effective but privileges remain

The junta-led West African nations of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have formally withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

A statement issued by the bloc said the exit became effective Wednesday, ending months of trying to glue a fragmented regional body together.

However, ECOWAS said it would keep mediation doors open, requesting member nations to continue to accord the trio membership privileges.

Member states are required to recognise national passports and identity cards bearing the ECOWAS logo held by citizens of the junta-led nations, continue to treat goods and services coming from the three countries by the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy, allow free movement and residence, and provide support to the bloc’s officials from the countries.

“These arrangements will be in place until the full determination of the modalities of our future engagement with the three countries by the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government,” the statement reads.

“The Commission has set up a structure to facilitate discussions on these modalities with each of the three countries.”

The bloc said the statement was necessary to avoid confusion and disruption in the lives and businesses of member citizens during the transition period.

At the 66th ordinary session of heads of state and government in Abuja last month, Alieu Touray, president of ECOWAS commission, set the deadline for mediation and permanent exit of the three nations.