ECOWAS Raises $2.4 Billion for Counter-Terrorism Force Amid Rising Attacks

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) plans to raise $2.4 billion to establish a standby counter-terrorism force to combat the surge in terrorist activities in the region. This development comes amid rising terror attacks and recent resignations of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso over unconstitutional military governments.

Why this matters: The establishment of a regional counter-terrorism force is crucial in addressing the growing security concerns in West Africa, which has far-reaching implications for global peace and stability. The failure to combat terrorism in the region could lead to a spill-over of violence into other parts of the continent, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

West Africa has been grappling with a wave of terrorism, with countries like Burkina Faso facing severe humanitarian crises. According to Save the Children International, Burkina Faso is projected to see a fivefold increase in children facing emergency levels of hunger by mid-2024. The establishment of a standby force is seen as a crucial step in addressing the growing security concerns in the region.

The military regimes of Mali, Niger Republic, and Burkina Faso announced their immediate withdrawal from ECOWAS on Sunday, stating it was their "sovereign decision" to leave "without delay." This move follows their suspension from the regional bloc after coups took place in Niger on July 26, 2023, Burkina Faso in 2022, and Mali in 2020. As a result, all three countries were suspended from ECOWAS, with Niger and Mali facing heavy sanctions.

The withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from ECOWAS has significant implications for regional security and cooperation, particularly in the face of jihadist violence and poverty plaguing the Sahel region. The ECOWAS Commission in Abuja has yet to respond to the withdrawal.

The $2.4 billion standby counter-terrorism force is a critical initiative by ECOWAS to combat the growing threat of terrorism in West Africa. With the region facing unprecedented challenges, including the resignation of three member states and a surge in terror attacks, the establishment of this force is more important than ever. As the situation continues to unfold, the international community will be closely watching ECOWAS' efforts to restore stability and security in the region.

Key Takeaways

• ECOWAS plans to raise $2.4 billion for a standby counter-terrorism force.
• West Africa faces growing security concerns due to terrorist activities.
• Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso withdrew from ECOWAS over military governments.
• The region faces humanitarian crises, including a surge in hunger in Burkina Faso.
• The counter-terrorism force is crucial for regional security and stability.