West Africa bloc offers junta-led states six months to reconsider exit

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, all governed by military juntas, will receive a six-month grace period following their planned withdrawal next month from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Reuters reports. ECOWAS leaders agreed to the measure at their summit Sunday, and will attempt to convince the three to reconsider their withdrawal, which would mark a significant setback to decades of regional integration. 

The Sahelian countries announced their exit on January 29, 2023, citing discontent with ECOWAS policies, particularly its stance on military-led governments. Their withdrawal could weaken the bloc’s ability to address security and economic challenges in a region grappling with terrorism, political instability, and economic dislocation.

ECOWAS plays a central role in fostering regional cooperation and stability. Leaders from ECOWAS countries expressed the hope that the grace period would enable them rebuild trust with the three military led governments and address grievances, stressing the importance of unity in tackling shared challenges such as cross-border insurgencies and economic development.