The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially recognized the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Republic from the regional bloc.
The exit, which became effective on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, follows a year-long process initiated by the three countries.
Despite their departure, ECOWAS has decided to keep its doors open, requesting member states to continue recognizing the national passports and identity cards bearing the ECOWAS logo of citizens from these countries.
Additionally, ECOWAS has asked its members to treat goods and services from these countries according to the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy, and to allow visa-free movement, residence, and establishment for their citizens.
The regional bloc emphasized that these arrangements will remain in place until the full determination of the modalities of future engagement with the three countries.
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