The political landscape in West Africa is undergoing a significant shift on Thursday, September 5, as Burkina Faso introduces a new biometric passport that no longer bears the logo of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This move further solidifies Burkina Faso’s break from the regional bloc, following in the footsteps of Niger and Mali.
The decision to remove the ECOWAS logo from its passport comes as Burkina Faso, along with its neighbouring countries Niger and Mali, recently experienced military coups. These political upheavals have led to strained relations with ECOWAS, ultimately resulting in their decision to sever ties with the regional bloc.
Biometric passports are becoming increasingly common around the world as governments seek to enhance security measures and combat identity fraud. By introducing a new biometric passport without ECOWAS branding, Burkina Faso is signalling its intention to assert greater independence and autonomy on both a national and international level.
This development has not gone unnoticed by other members of ECOWAS, who are closely monitoring the situation. The departure of three key countries from the regional bloc raises questions about its future direction and cohesion. It also underscores growing tensions within West Africa as political dynamics continue to evolve.
Burkina Faso’s passport remains relatively the most recognised on the African continent, ranked 78th globally and providing visa-free access to 60 destinations, including current ECOWAS member countries, according to the Henley Passport Index.
ECOWAS has expressed concerns that the withdrawal of these nations could undermine the free movement of people and goods within its borders, impacting the bloc’s 400 million citizens.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria, who currently chairs ECOWAS, has been actively trying to persuade the three countries to reconsider their exit, emphasising that the organisation remains open to maintaining friendly relations.
Burkina Faso’s introduction of a new biometric passport without an ECOWAS logo marks yet another significant development in the evolving political landscape of West Africa. The implications of this decision will undoubtedly continue to reverberate throughout the region as all parties involved assess their respective positions moving forward.
