The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), established in 1975, has long been a stabilizing force in the region, fostering economic cooperation and collective security among its 15 member states. However, recent political upheavals, military coups, and internal divisions have exposed cracks in the regional bloc, weakening its ability to address security threats. At the same time, insurgency and violent extremism are spreading across West Africa, exacerbating instability. This analysis explores the deepening fractures within ECOWAS, their impact on counterinsurgency efforts, and the growing security threats posed by insurgents in the region.
By Abdallah el-Kurebe
The ECOWAS crisis: A deepening crack
1. Political instability and military coups
ECOWAS has faced major setbacks due to a series of military coups in member states, particularly in Mali (2020, 2021), Guinea (2021), Burkina Faso (2022), and Niger (2023). These coups have strained relations within the bloc, leading to:
- Suspensions and sanctions: ECOWAS initially imposed harsh sanctions on Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso but later softened its stance after negotiations. The bloc also suspended Niger following the July 2023 coup, demanding the reinstatement of ousted President Mohamed Bazoum.
- Withdrawal threats: In January 2024, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger announced their decision to exit ECOWAS, citing the bloc’s failure to address their security concerns and its perceived bias in handling political crises. Their planned departure signals a fragmentation within the regional body.
2. Weak enforcement of collective security measures
ECOWAS has historically played a key role in regional security, deploying military interventions through the ECOWAS Standby Force (ESF) in Liberia (1990s), Sierra Leone (1997), and The Gambia (2017). However, in recent years, the bloc’s response to security crises has been inconsistent:
- In 2023, ECOWAS threatened military intervention in Niger but failed to act due to opposition from within the region.
- Member states have been reluctant to contribute troops and resources to counterinsurgency operations, weakening regional military coordination.
- The exit of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—three countries at the center of the insurgency crisis—undermines collective defense efforts.
3. The rise of alternative alliances
In response to ECOWAS pressure, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) in 2023, a security pact aimed at self-reliance in counterterrorism efforts. This move signals a shift away from ECOWAS-led initiatives and raises concerns about the effectiveness of a fragmented security approach.
The escalating threat of insurgency
1. Expansion of jihadist groups
West Africa has become a battleground for insurgent groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and the Islamic State (ISIS), including:
- Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) – Linked to al-Qaeda, operating in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
- Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) – Affiliated with ISIS, responsible for cross-border attacks in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
- Boko Haram and ISWAP – Active in Nigeria, Chad, and parts of Niger.
These groups exploit weak governance, porous borders, and local grievances to recruit fighters and expand their operations.
2. Increased attacks and civilian casualties
- Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have witnessed a surge in insurgent attacks, with thousands killed and millions displaced.
- Benin, Togo, and Ghana are experiencing spillover violence, raising concerns about jihadist expansion into coastal West Africa.
- Attacks on military installations, schools, and government institutions further destabilize affected states.
3. The humanitarian crisis
The insurgency crisis has led to a severe humanitarian emergency, with over 2.5 million people displaced across the Sahel. Many flee to neighboring countries, overwhelming already fragile economies and social services. Food insecurity and restricted access to health care worsen the situation.
Implications of ECOWAS instability on counterinsurgency
1. Weak regional coordination
With ECOWAS divided, joint military operations against insurgents become more difficult. Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, previously part of ECOWAS-backed counterterrorism efforts, may now struggle to access regional support.
2. Strengthening of insurgent groups
The failure of ECOWAS to present a united front against terrorism gives insurgents more room to operate. Jihadist groups thrive in political instability, capitalizing on weakened state authority and military inefficiencies.
3. Increased foreign influence
With ECOWAS weakening, some West African states may seek external partnerships outside the bloc:
- Russia’s Wagner Group already operates in Mali and has been expanding its influence in Burkina Faso and Niger.
- France and the U.S. have been forced to reevaluate their military presence, particularly after Niger expelled French forces.
- China and Turkey are expanding security cooperation, further shifting the balance of power in the region.
Way forward: Strengthening ECOWAS and counterinsurgency efforts
1. Diplomatic reconciliation
ECOWAS must re-engage Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to prevent further disintegration. This requires:
- Reforming decision-making processes to address security concerns of all members.
- Balancing sanctions with dialogue to restore trust and cooperation.
2. Strengthening counterterrorism cooperation
- Reviving joint military operations under ECOWAS frameworks.
- Enhancing intelligence-sharing mechanisms to track insurgent movements.
- Establishing rapid response teams for immediate intervention in conflict zones.
3. Investing in development and governance
Addressing the root causes of insurgency—poverty, unemployment, and political marginalization—is crucial. ECOWAS must:
- Support economic empowerment programs in vulnerable communities.
- Improve governance and anti-corruption measures to restore public trust.
- Enhance local security structures to make communities more resilient against extremism.
4. Expanding international partnerships
ECOWAS should seek multilateral support from the African Union (AU), United Nations (UN), and European Union (EU) while maintaining a coordinated regional approach.
In conclusion, the cracks within ECOWAS pose a serious challenge to West Africa’s security, particularly in the fight against insurgency. As internal divisions weaken regional coordination, jihadist groups continue to expand their operations, threatening stability across the Sahel and beyond. A united and reformed ECOWAS is essential for counterinsurgency success, requiring diplomatic reconciliation, strengthened military collaboration, and investments in governance and development. Without urgent action, the threat of insurgency will grow, further destabilizing the region and undermining efforts to achieve lasting peace.
