Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso Exit Francophonie Organization in Sovereignty Push

The three junta-led nations cite sovereignty concerns and reject French influence, deepening their geopolitical shift towards Russia and away from Western alliances.

Mali announced its withdrawal from the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) on March 18, following similar decisions by Niger and Burkina Faso a day earlier.
The countries, all led by military regimes, criticized the OIF for selective sanctions and actions they claim undermine their sovereignty.
This move is part of a broader rejection of French influence, with the three nations having previously downgraded the French language and renamed colonial-era landmarks.
Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have also left the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and formed the Alliance des États du Sahel (AES) to assert regional autonomy.
The three nations are strengthening ties with Russia, marking a significant geopolitical realignment away from their former colonial power, France.