The heads of state and government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) meet on Sunday for an ordinary summit in Abuja, with security issues and the departure of military juntas on the agenda. of the association.
Two days before the summit, the military regimes of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger reaffirmed their “irreversible” decision to leave ECOWAS, affirming that this West African organization is being exploited by France.
The departure of these three countries,which form the Alliance of Sahel States (AES),coudl have notable economic and political implications,notably with the question of the free movement of people and goods in the region,where jihadist groups are gaining ground. of the land.
Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who was appointed mediator between the AES countries and ECOWAS in order to plead for their continued membership in the organization, is participating in the summit in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria.
President Faye said last week that he was “making progress” in negotiations with the three countries, saying there was no reason for them not to maintain relations with ECOWAS, especially given of the security situation.
The departure of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger will be effective one year after its proclamation, i.e. in January 2025, according to ECOWAS texts.
The break between the AES and ECOWAS occurred after the coup d’état in Niger, in July 2023, the sixth in the region in three years (two in Mali, two in burkina and one in Guinea).
The West African organization had threatened military intervention and imposed heavy economic sanctions on Niamey, which have since been lifted.
To try to ease tensions, Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé tried to play a mediating role between the AES and ECOWAS.
In late August, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, General Christopher Musa, met with his Nigerien counterpart, General moussa Salaou Barmou to strengthen security cooperation, including communication between the two armies and participation in a joint force along their border area.
As a coup in 2021, ECOWAS member Guinea has also been led by a military leader, General Mamady Doumbouya, who has since been inaugurated president.
Under pressure from ECOWAS, Guinean military authorities agreed to organise elections by the end of 2024. However, they have since admitted that they would not keep this commitment.
Agence France Press (AFP)
How does the departure of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from ECOWAS impact local economies and security in the region?
Interview: Navigating West Africa’s Evolving Geopolitical Landscape with Dr. Amina Kone, Regional Security Expert
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Kone.As heads of state and government from ECOWAS convene in Abuja, what are the main security challenges on their agenda, particularly regarding the military regimes in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger?
Dr. Amina Kone: Thank you for having me. The primary security challenges revolve around the increasing influence of jihadist groups in the Sahel region. The military junta governments of these countries cite that ECOWAS is predominantly influenced by France, which adds a layer of complexity to their relationship. This disconnect poses risks to regional cooperation that is crucial for addressing security threats effectively.
Time.news Editor: The decision of the three countries to leave ECOWAS has been termed “irreversible.” What implications might this have for the movement of people and goods in West Africa?
Dr. Amina Kone: The departure of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from ECOWAS could significantly hinder regional integration efforts, particularly concerning the free movement of people and goods. These movements have been essential for trade and economic stability in the region. A fragmented west Africa may face increased difficulties, as border controls could tighten, perhaps exacerbating the existing security threats and economic hardships, as these countries lose the collaborative framework ECOWAS offers.
Time.news Editor: Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, as mediator, has expressed optimism about negotiations. How effective can mediation be in this tense environment, and what strategies might he employ?
Dr. Amina Kone: Mediation can be effective, especially when there is a sincere commitment from all parties involved. President Faye’s role is crucial; he can facilitate dialog by emphasizing common ground—like shared security concerns. Key strategies could include establishing trust through open communications, creating joint security initiatives, and leveraging regional economic ties to engage these alienated states back into the ECOWAS framework.
Time.news Editor: Given the backdrop of recent coups and military governance within ECOWAS, such as in Guinea, how does the institution balance its response to military regimes while advocating for democracy?
Dr. Amina Kone: ECOWAS has struggled with this balance. There’s an inherent contradiction in promoting democracy while dealing with military governments. Sanctions and threats of military intervention, as seen in Niger, can put pressure on these regimes but also risk further destabilizing the region. It’s crucial for ECOWAS to implement a supportive approach, encouraging military-led governments to transition back to civilian rule while providing incentives for cooperation, such as economic assistance or security collaboration.
Time.news Editor: With the impending departure effective in January 2025,what practical advice would you offer to regional stakeholders who are keen to foster stability amidst these shifts?
Dr. Amina Kone: Regional stakeholders must actively engage in dialogue and collaboration, even with parties perceived as antagonistic. It’s important to develop a extensive regional security strategy that includes all nations, focusing on combating terrorism and securing borders. Additionally,civil society must be involved in these discussions to ensure that the voice of the people is represented,which can help bridge the divide between governments and citizens.
Time.news Editor: As we wrap up, how can our readers stay informed about these ongoing developments within ECOWAS and the Sahel region?
Dr.Amina Kone: I recommend following reputable news sources, engaging with local NGOs that focus on West African affairs, and participating in discussions at regional events and think-tank forums. Staying aware of the dynamics and evolving narratives is crucial to understanding the broader implications of these geopolitical shifts.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Kone, for sharing such insightful perspectives on these critical issues facing West Africa today.
Dr. Amina Kone: thank you for having me. It is indeed an critically important dialogue, and I appreciate the chance to discuss these matters.