Burkina Faso has introduced a new biometric passport that omits the logo of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), marking a significant step in the country’s decision to distance itself from the regional organization.
This move follows a military coup that brought the current government to power. The exclusion of the ECOWAS logo on the new passport reflects Burkina Faso’s ongoing efforts to cut ties with the 15-member bloc. Security Minister Mahamadou Sana, speaking at the official launch on Tuesday, emphasized this point, saying, “There’s no ECOWAS logo on this passport, nor is there any mention of ECOWAS. Since January, Burkina Faso has made the decision to withdraw from this body, and this is just the realization of that decision.”
The introduction of the new passport comes as part of Burkina Faso’s broader withdrawal process from ECOWAS, which began earlier this year. ECOWAS officials have expressed concern over the potential implications of Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali leaving the bloc. These departures, they warn, could impact the freedom of movement and economic cooperation that have benefited the 400 million citizens of the 50-year-old organization.
This development is unfolding as Burkina Faso, along with its neighbors Niger and Mali, face growing security challenges from insurgent groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. The countries are grappling with increasing violence and instability, which has led to a shift in their regional alliances and a move toward greater autonomy.
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