Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger Retain GIABA Role Despite ECOWAS Exit

West Africa WeeklyDecember 17, 20251 Mins read19

The Economic Community of West African States has confirmed that Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger will continue participating in the Intergovernmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa as non member states, despite their formal withdrawal from ECOWAS.

The three countries, now aligned under the Alliance of Sahel States, left the regional bloc earlier this year after prolonged political tensions and sanctions imposed following military takeovers. Their continued involvement in GIABA signals a willingness on both sides to preserve cooperation in critical technical areas.

GIABA plays a key role in coordinating regional efforts against money laundering, terrorist financing and illicit financial flows. ECOWAS officials say excluding the Sahel states entirely would weaken regional security and economic oversight at a time of heightened instability.

By granting non-member status, ECOWAS has created a framework that allows continued information sharing, evaluations, and capacity building without reversing the political consequences of withdrawal.

Analysts view the arrangement as a pragmatic compromise that separates security and financial cooperation from broader political disagreements. It also reflects concerns that cutting institutional ties could create blind spots that criminal and extremist networks could exploit.

While political relations remain strained, the GIABA decision suggests that selective engagement may continue between ECOWAS and the Sahel states, particularly in areas where regional collaboration is essential.