The Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has renewed calls for Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to return to the regional body following their recent withdrawals. The three Sahel nations, all currently under military rule, had earlier announced their exit from ECOWAS in protest against sanctions and political pressure over delayed transitions to democratic governance.
In a resolution adopted at its latest session, the ECOWAS Parliament emphasised that the continued absence of the countries threatens regional integration, economic cooperation, and collective security efforts. Lawmakers stressed that unity among member states is critical in addressing the growing challenges of terrorism, transnational crime, and economic instability in West Africa.
The Speaker of the Parliament highlighted that dialogue remains the preferred tool for resolving political disagreements within the bloc. He urged the leadership of the three countries to reconsider their stance, describing ECOWAS as a family whose strength lies in solidarity. According to him, reintegration would not only benefit Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger but also enhance the region’s collective bargaining power on the global stage.
ECOWAS has faced mounting criticism for its handling of military takeovers in the region, with some accusing the body of imposing punitive measures that further isolate populations. However, the Parliament defended its position, insisting that its actions were aimed at upholding democratic principles while leaving room for negotiation and reconciliation.
Civil society organisations and regional analysts have welcomed the renewed push for dialogue, though some caution that rebuilding trust between the bloc and the three countries will require concessions on both sides. They argue that security and humanitarian crises in the Sahel cannot be effectively addressed without cooperation across borders.
The call for reintegration comes as the affected countries deepen security and economic ties with alternative partners outside the region, raising concerns about a possible fragmentation of West Africa’s integration agenda. Observers warn that prolonged estrangement could weaken ECOWAS’s influence and undermine decades of regional progress.
As efforts continue, the onus remains on both ECOWAS leadership and the military governments to bridge their differences. The coming months are expected to be critical in determining whether dialogue can pave the way for a compromise that ensures the return of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to the ECOWAS fold.
