Published on March 24, 2026
The Alliance des États du Sahel (AES), or the Alliance of Sahel States (ASS), has found itself at the center of a growing tension marked by a cold war against French influence and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This political landscape has been characterized by a series of anti-French sentiments and actions that have evolved over the past year, reshaping the dynamics of regional power and diplomacy.
In recent months, AES member countries have voiced their discontent with France’s historical presence and perceived neocolonial influence in West Africa. This shift is emblematic of a broader trend in which several Sahel nations, once aligned with Western powers, are increasingly asserting their autonomy and pursuing policies that prioritize regional stability and security over traditional alliances.
The formation of the AES, which includes Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, has set the stage for this geopolitical shift. These nations have taken strong stands against what they consider interference from France and ECOWAS, often advocating for a new framework of cooperation that prioritizes local governance and decision-making. Their rhetoric has emphasized a departure from external influence, suggesting that “Tout Empire Périra” – all empires will perish – is not just a slogan but a guiding principle for their new political reality.
The consequences of this anti-French stance and the distancing from ECOWAS have been palpable. Diplomatic ties are being re-evaluated, and joint military operations, particularly those aimed at combating jihadist threats in the Sahel, are facing disruptions. The AES has called for a reimagined security approach that reflects the priorities of its member states rather than relying on external forces, particularly European ones.
Moreover, these developments place ECOWAS in a precarious position. Historically, the bloc has played a pivotal role in mediating conflicts and promoting stability in West Africa. However, as AES members assert their sovereignty, ECOWAS must navigate a complex landscape where its influence is increasingly questioned, and its effectiveness is put to the test.
The growing rift underscores a fundamental shift in alliances in the region. Many locals resonate with the AES’s call for autonomy, viewing it as a necessary correction to what they perceive as historical grievances against former colonial powers. This sentiment is compounded challenges posed , poverty, and governance failures in the region.
As the year progresses, continued scrutiny will be placed on how AES member states navigate their relationships both with each other and the wider West African community. The trajectory of this cold war with France and ECOWAS will undoubtedly shape not only the future of the Sahel but also the broader geopolitical landscape of Africa.
In conclusion, as the AES solidifies its position against perceived imperial influences, it raises important questions about the future of regional cooperation, sovereignty, and the role of external powers in Africa’s development. The unfolding political narrative suggests a critical moment in West Africa’s history, where the echoes of historical grievances and contemporary realities intersect.