The withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) became effective on 29 January 2025. During the ECOWAS Summit held in Abuja, Nigeria in December, the bloc formally accepted the countries’ requests to exit, in line with Article 91 of the revised ECOWAS Treaty. Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger’s collective discontent with ECOWAS-imposed sanctions prompted their decision to leave, which will shrink the ECWAS region by 50%. Analysts warn that the departure of the group will have financial and security repercussions, especially as the Sahel region grapples with escalating instability. The bloc s also particularly exposed to climate impacts, underscoring the need for regional coordinated efforts.
