Lomé, February 8, 2025 -(©AfreePress)– The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced the termination of 135 employees from Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, now members of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
This decision follows the official withdrawal of these three countries from the regional organization, a move formally enacted on January 29, 2025.
The affected employees, working within the ECOWAS Commission, Parliament, specialized agencies, Bank, and various programs, must vacate their positions by September 30, 2025.
Under ECOWAS’ internal regulations, the dismissed workers will receive tThree months of severance pay, one month’s salary per year of service, and capped at twelve months.
Additionally, according to information obtained by AfreePress, Radio France Internationale (RFI) has also terminated contracts of several staff members from these three countries, citing the diplomatic tensions arising from their withdrawal.
Meanwhile, a negotiation committee has been set up to oversee the gradual exit of AES countries from ECOWAS. The talks will primarily focus on freedom of movement for people and goods, the future of ongoing development projects, and the economic and institutional implications of the withdrawal.
This separation marks a significant turning point for ECOWAS, whose unity is now under strain following the departure of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. Uncertainty remains regarding the long-term impact of this split on regional stability.
Anika A.
