Burkina Faso introduces new biometric passports, solidifies withdrawal from ECOWAS

Burkina Faso has made a decisive move to formalize its withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) by launching new biometric passports without the bloc’s logo or any mention of the regional organization.

This follows the country’s leadership change after a military coup and signifies its intent to break away from the 15-member alliance.

At the passport launch, Security Minister Mahamadou Sana confirmed that the omission of the ECOWAS logo reflects Burkina Faso’s decision to leave the bloc since January. This move underscores the nation’s commitment to distancing itself from the group.

ECOWAS has expressed concerns over the potential consequences of Burkina Faso’s, Niger’s, and Mali’s withdrawal, which may affect free movement and undermine the integrity of the common market that has benefited millions of West Africans.

The shift also comes amid increasing insurgent threats from al Qaeda and Islamic State affiliates in the region.