All articles tagged with #regional bloc
Rwanda has withdrawn from the Economic Community of Central African States (Eccas) following a diplomatic dispute over its involvement in the conflict in eastern DR Congo, where it is accused of supporting rebels, a claim Rwanda denies. The decision comes amid ongoing efforts to resolve the conflict and a draft peace plan involving US mediation.
Three West African countries, Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, have left the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in a move likened to "Brexit," following a series of military coups and political instability. The decision has led to a regional crisis, with the countries facing sanctions and diplomatic pressure from ECOWAS, France, and the US. The split has raised concerns about the economic impact on the region and has sparked scrutiny of Nigeria's leadership within the bloc. The departure also reflects a shift in alliances, with the military regimes forming closer ties with Russia, while facing challenges in containing insecurity and maintaining economic stability.
Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, led by military governments, have announced their immediate withdrawal from ECOWAS, accusing the regional bloc of becoming a threat to its members and failing to support their fight against terrorism and insecurity. The three countries have also cut military ties with France and joined forces in the "Alliance of Sahel States" to tackle the rise of violent armed groups in their countries. This move comes amid concerns about the impact of French military withdrawal and economic sanctions on already fragile economies, as well as the potential spread of armed groups towards stable coastal countries in West Africa.
Sudan has suspended its membership in the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (Igad) after the regional bloc attempted to mediate the nine-month-long conflict between Sudan's army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The suspension came after Igad invited the RSF's chief to a summit, which Sudan's government found offensive. The conflict has led to the displacement of over seven million people and a death toll of more than 13,000. Sudan's move reflects the deepening tensions within the regional bloc and the complexities of mediating the ongoing civil war in Sudan.