ECOWAS Ensures Open Borders For Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger Despite Exit

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has declared that businesses and citizens of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger will continue to benefit from important privileges like passport recognition, trade benefits, and visa-free travel, even after the three nations formally withdrew from the organization.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, ECOWAS emphasized its commitment to regional unity, urging authorities within and outside its member states to recognize passports and identity cards bearing the ECOWAS logo from citizens of the three countries “until further notice.”

The statement reads in parts, “The ECOWAS Authority has decided to keep its doors open in the spirit of regional solidarity and in the interest of the people.

“These measures are necessary to avoid confusion and disruption in the lives and businesses of our people during this transition period.”

Additionally, ECOWAS confirmed that goods and services from the three countries will still be treated under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy.

The bloc also called for full support and cooperation with ECOWAS officials from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger as they continue their assignments within the Community.

The statement noted that these temporary measures will remain in place until the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government finalizes the framework for future engagement with the three nations.

A special structure has been set up to facilitate discussions on the next steps.