THE DISINTEGRATION OF ECOWAS: ANALYZING THE CONSEQUENCES OF NIGER, BURKINA FASO, AND MALI'S EXIT ON REGIONAL STABILITY AND ECONOMY

This paper discussed the political and economic consequences of the withdrawal of Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). With this backdrop, which is characterized by political turmoil in terms of recent military coups and governance crises, the paper examines how these exits are undermining regional cohesion, security and integration. The main results are that the withdrawals have a severe impact on the cooperation of regional security, derail inter-regional trade and investment flows, as well as the solidarity of monetary and political union within ECOWAS. The paper also identified the increased risk of political isolation and economic deterioration of the withdrawing countries and the overall consequences on West African stability. In an effort to overcome these, the paper suggests consolidating ECOWAS enforcement of democratic governance, improving economic diversification and improvement of infrastructure, and greater security cooperation. There is also the focus on sustained relations with the international partners within the framework of mediation and technical assistance to restore the stability and integration of the region. Such actions are essential in restoring the purpose of ECOWAS as a source of peace, development and cooperation in West Africa.