West African Leaders Face Rift as Coup-Hit Nations Form Alliance
The 66th summit of the Economic Community of West African states (ECOWAS) convened in Abuja, Nigeria, on July 7th, 2024, amidst a growing crisis. the meeting took place against a backdrop of escalating tensions fueled by the formation of a new alliance among three West african nations recently seized by military juntas: Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
These three countries, collectively representing a important population, have announced their departure from ECOWAS, opting instead to form the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). Their decision follows ECOWAS’s response to the Niger coup, which included economic sanctions and the threat of military intervention. This decisive move by the junta-led governments is seen as a direct challenge to the authority and influence of ECOWAS.
the leaders of the breakaway alliance have declared their decision “irreversible.” Adding to the pressure on the Abuja summit, Malian leader Assimi Goita outlined conditions for free movement within the nascent AES. This bold move underscores the determination of these nations to pursue their own path, independent of ECOWAS’s influence.
The ECOWAS summit participants anxiously awaited a report from Senegalese envoy bassirou Diomaye Faye, tasked with mediating a return to the fold for Bamako, Niamey, and ouagadougou. The outcome of the summit will determine whether the departure of these three nations is finalized, a move with perhaps significant economic ramifications. The AES, with its combined population of 72 million, represents a substantial portion of the region’s economic and political landscape.
The situation in West Africa has significant implications for global security and stability. The potential for further instability and conflict in the region raises concerns about humanitarian crises and the potential for increased terrorist activity.The United States, along with other international actors, is closely monitoring the situation and considering its potential impact on regional and global interests.
the West African leaders face a rift as Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, recently hit by military coups, formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) and quit the Economic Community of West african States (ECOWAS) [3]. This decision comes after ECOWAS imposed sanctions and threatened military intervention following the coup in Niger.
FIBA suspended Mali and Nigerпъл.
The AES, comprising a significant population of 72 million, seeks to chart its own course independent of ECOWAS. Their
withdrawal from ECOWAS could have considerable economic repercussions. [3]
