Burkina Faso Takes a Stand: Introduces New Biometric Passport Without ECOWAS Logo

In a move that further solidifies its break from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Burkina Faso has introduced a new biometric passport without the ECOWAS logo. This decision comes after the country, along with Niger and Mali, severed ties with ECOWAS following military coups in the three nations.

According to Burkina Faso’s Security Minister, Mahamadou Sana, the new passport does not feature the ECOWAS logo or any mention of the organization. Sana stated, “This passport does not feature the ECOWAS logo or any mention of ECOWAS. Since January, Burkina Faso has decided to withdraw from this body, and this is simply a realisation of the action already taken by Burkina Faso.”

The three nations severed relations with ECOWAS after the organization imposed sanctions in response to the military takeovers. Although ECOWAS only issued a suspension, it demanded that the countries return to constitutional order before the sanctions were lifted. However, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have all rejected any plans to reintegrate, accusing ECOWAS of betraying the pan-African ideals for which it was founded.

Despite its departure from ECOWAS, Burkina Faso’s passport remains relatively strong, 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 Tinubu of Nigeria, who currently chairs ECOWAS, has been actively trying to persuade the three countries to reconsider their exit, emphasizing that the organization remains open to maintaining friendly relations. However, it remains to be seen whether Burkina Faso will reconsider its decision and rejoin the regional bloc.