The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has directed its member states to continue recognizing the passports of citizens from Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, despite the official exit of these countries from the regional bloc.
The decision ensures that citizens of the three nations will still enjoy visa-free travel within ECOWAS territories, in line with the bloc’s protocols on free movement.
The directive also extends support for ECOWAS officials from these countries and maintains trade agreements under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS).
Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—currently governed by military regimes—had announced their departure from ECOWAS in 2024. According to the bloc’s rules, a one-year notice is required before an exit becomes official, which was finalized on Wednesday.
Despite the departure, ECOWAS has signaled a willingness to maintain engagement with the three nations.
The regional body’s statement instructed member states to provide full cooperation to officials from the departing countries and uphold existing travel and trade agreements until further notice.
The three countries, which have shown no plans for a return to democratic rule, have since formed a new alliance known as the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
Burkina Faso extended its military rule until 2029, Niger has been under junta leadership since 2023, and Mali has remained under military control since 2020.
While the political future of these nations remains uncertain, ECOWAS’s decision suggests an effort to maintain economic and regional ties despite their withdrawal.
