Despite Exit, Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger Citizens, Goods To Enjoy ECOWAS Rights

Despite Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger officially withdrawing from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on January 29, 2025, citizens, goods, and services from the three countries will continue to enjoy the rights and privileges provided under ECOWAS protocols and policies.

In a statement issued on Wednesday from Abuja, Nigeria, ECOWAS emphasized its commitment to regional solidarity and the well-being of the people of these nations. The regional body affirmed that despite the withdrawal, citizens from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger will still benefit from existing ECOWAS agreements until further notice.

Specifically, ECOWAS directed all member states to:

• Continue recognizing national passports and identity cards bearing the ECOWAS logo issued by citizens of the three countries.
• Treat goods and services from the three nations in line with the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy.
• Allow citizens of the three countries to retain the right to visa-free movement, residence, and establishment in other ECOWAS countries, in adherence to ECOWAS protocols.

Moreover, ECOWAS emphasized that its officials from the three countries will continue to receive full support and cooperation in carrying out their assignments for the organization during this transition period.

These measures will remain in effect until ECOWAS determines the future modalities for engaging with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. The ECOWAS Commission has set up a structure to facilitate discussions with each of the three countries regarding their future relationship with the bloc.

The decision to maintain these rights comes in the wake of months of diplomatic tensions. Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, led by military governments, had expressed dissatisfaction with ECOWAS policies, particularly regarding sanctions and oversight on governance issues. As these three nations move forward outside ECOWAS, it remains to be seen how relations will evolve—whether through renewed diplomacy or a more permanent rupture from the regional union.

ECOWAS aims to ensure a smooth transition and minimize disruption in the lives and businesses of its people during this period of adjustment.