Member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have begun a two-day high-level meeting in Accra, Ghana, to address the formal withdrawal of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso from the regional bloc.

Scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, the session is focused on determining the logistical framework and broader implications of the departure of the three Sahelian nations, particularly for ECOWAS institutions currently operating within their borders.

In a statement released Tuesday, ECOWAS noted that the primary agenda includes evaluating the modalities of withdrawal and establishing a mechanism to engage with each of the three countries individually to manage the exit process.

“This session is crucial for determining how ECOWAS institutions can continue to function effectively, even as key members transition out of the bloc,” the statement read.

Tensions between ECOWAS and the withdrawing countries have intensified following the introduction of a 0.5% import duty by Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso on goods originating from ECOWAS member states. This duty, excluding humanitarian aid was implemented under the Alliance of Sahel States, which the three military-led governments formed after announcing their departure from ECOWAS in January 2025.

The tariff contravenes ECOWAS protocols promoting free movement of goods and regional integration, complicating trade and raising new concerns about the future of economic and political cooperation in West Africa.

The Accra meeting is expected to provide clarity on the future of ECOWAS’s engagement in these countries, including the potential relocation or downsizing of regional institutions and a reassessment of collective strategies for regional stability and development.

Further updates are anticipated following the conclusion of the meeting on Wednesday.