Tens of thousands of people took to the streets in Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali on Tuesday, rallying in support of their governments’ formal withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which comes into effect on Wednesday.
The three West African nations, all founding members of ECOWAS, announced their exit in January 2024, citing concerns over the bloc’s alignment with foreign powers, particularly France. Their decision has deepened regional divisions, raising questions about ECOWAS’s future and influence. In response, the three countries have formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a new coalition aimed at regional cooperation on their own terms.
Shifting Alliances and Growing Tensions
The withdrawal comes amid a broader geopolitical shift in the region. Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali have increasingly distanced themselves from Western influence, accusing ECOWAS of acting against their national interests. France, which has long held military and economic ties with these nations, has emerged as a primary target of criticism, while the three governments have sought closer relations with Russia and Iran.
Despite ECOWAS requiring a one-year notice before withdrawal, the three countries have remained steadfast, with the deadline expiring on Wednesday.
Mass Mobilization Across the Sahel
In Niger’s capital, Niamey, large crowds gathered at a central square before marching toward the National Assembly. Protesters, led by supporters of the ruling authorities, chanted slogans against French President Emmanuel Macron and leaders of Benin, Nigeria, and Ivory Coast—countries with whom Niger has had diplomatic tensions.
“On January 28, 2024, we announced our exit from ECOWAS with immediate effect. Many thought we would reverse our decision, but today marks the end. There is nothing left between us and ECOWAS,” declared Ibro Amadou Bacharou, private chief of staff to Niger’s leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani.
In Burkina Faso, thousands, including Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean-Emmanuel Ouedraogo and senior government officials, gathered in Ouagadougou’s Nation Square. Demonstrators waved national flags, as well as Russian flags, while banners read, “Long live AES, down with ECOWAS.”
“Breaking free from foreign domination will not happen through diplomacy alone—it requires force,” Ouedraogo told the crowd.
Meanwhile, in Mali, a mass rally was held at Kurukanfuga, a historic site near Bamako where the Mandingo Empire’s constitution was proclaimed in the 13th century. Organizers emphasized the symbolic significance of the location, portraying the event as a moment of reclaiming sovereignty.
“ECOWAS has abandoned its founding principles and pan-African ideals. It has become a barrier to progress,” said Samou Samuel Kone, one of the event’s coordinators.
What Comes Next?
The three governments have announced plans to introduce a common passport system for their citizens starting Wednesday. They have also unveiled plans for a joint 5,000-member security force, signaling a move toward deeper military cooperation.
With their exit finalized, the departure of Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali marks a major turning point for ECOWAS. The regional bloc, now weakened by the loss of three key members, faces growing uncertainty about its role and influence in West Africa. Meanwhile, the newly formed Alliance of Sahel States is positioning itself as an alternative force, seeking to reshape the region’s political and economic landscape.