EU Calls for Re-consideration in ECOWAS Engagement with Alliance of Sahel States (AES)

The European Union (EU) has urged the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to reconsider its approach towards Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, now collectively known as the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), following their withdrawal from the regional bloc. This call comes amid concerns over regional stability and the impact of their departure on West African integration and cooperation.

EU’s Stance on ECOWAS and AES

Ambassador Gautier Mignot, the Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS emphasized the importance of regional integration for stability and prosperity in West Africa. Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja, Mignot expressed the EU’s regret over the split, stating, “Splitting does not seem to us a good idea.” He drew parallels to the EU’s experience with Brexit, highlighting the need for dialogue and negotiation even after such separations. “Even if you leave a regional integration arrangement, geographically you remain neighbors. You have to find new ways of coexisting and cooperating,” he explained, offering EU assistance in managing the transition.

Background of the Withdrawal

The decision of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to exit ECOWAS was marked by military coups in these countries in recent years; Mali in 2020 and 2021, Burkina Faso in 2022, and Niger in 2023. This led to their suspension from ECOWAS, which had hoped for a return to democratic governance. However, the juntas in these countries have instead formed the AES, accusing ECOWAS of being too influenced by Western powers and shifting their alliances, notably towards Russia, for support against local insurgencies.

ECOWAS’s Response

In response to the withdrawal, ECOWAS has decided to respect the countries’ decision but has established a six-month grace period for possible reintegration, effective from January 29, 2025, to July 29, 2025. This decision was made during the 66th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, acknowledging the one-year notice period required by Article 91 of the ECOWAS treaty for any member state to leave. ECOWAS has also appointed mediators from Senegal and Togo to continue dialogue with the AES countries.

Security and Humanitarian Implications

The EU’s emphasis on continued engagement also stems from security concerns, as Ambassador Mignot noted the necessity of cooperation to address the growing security and humanitarian crises in the Sahel region. The withdrawal of these countries from ECOWAS could lead to a fragmented response to terrorism, human trafficking, and transnational crime, which have been significant challenges for the region. The EU has committed to maintaining humanitarian aid and adapting development cooperation to support local populations amidst these crises.

Looking Forward

ECOWAS is at a crossroads where it must balance its principles of democratic governance with the pragmatic need for regional unity in the face of security threats. The EU’s advocacy for a new engagement strategy might guide ECOWAS towards more flexible and inclusive policies, possibly opening avenues for dialogue and cooperation that do not strictly hinge on political regimes but rather on mutual benefits and regional stability.

The EU’s call for ECOWAS to rethink its strategy is not just about retaining member states but also about ensuring that the region does not lose ground in its fight against instability. While the immediate future of ECOWAS and the AES remains uncertain, the ongoing dialogue and the EU’s involvement signal a commitment to finding a sustainable path forward for West African integration and security.

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