Historic withdrawal of Burkina Faso and Niger from the G5 Sahel: Towards a new dynamic of sovereignty and regional cooperation
The Transition Governments of Burkina Faso and the Republic of Niger have made the sovereign decision to withdraw from the G5 Sahel, including the Joint Force, starting from November 29, 2023.
This decision follows a thorough review of the functioning of the G5 Sahel, established in 2014 by Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, and Chad with the aim of pooling resources to ensure security and development in the Sahel region.
Despite nearly nine years of existence, the G5 Sahel has faced challenges in achieving its objectives, notably due to institutional complexities and obstacles that hinder the ambitions of member states.
The governments of Burkina Faso and the Republic of Niger believe that the organization should not compromise the independence and dignity of their peoples in favor of foreign interests.
Both governments remain committed to fostering lasting peace in the Sahel region. Although they are withdrawing from the G5 Sahel, they affirm their willingness to cooperate in the fight against terrorism, transnational crime, and development by maintaining a collaborative approach within the Alliance of Sahel States.
They aim to make the Sahel region a territory where sovereignty is asserted to reclaim their territories, restore peace, ensure security, and promote shared development for the peoples of the Sahel.
