Romania and Bulgaria join Schengen area and Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger pull out of ECOWAS: Matters Arising
Romania and Bulgaria’s accession to the Schengen area is a significant development in European politics. As of January 2025, these two countries have officially joined the Schengen zone, allowing for passport-free travel between member states.¹ This move is expected to boost travel, trade, and tourism, strengthening the internal market.
The Schengen area, which comprises 29 European countries, guarantees free movement to close to 450 million EU citizens, along with non-EU nationals living in the EU or visiting the EU. With Romania and Bulgaria on board, the Schengen zone will become even more expansive, making it easier for travelers to explore these regions seamlessly.
Romania and Bulgaria’s entry into the Schengen zone was initially blocked by Austria, citing concerns over illegal immigration. However, after 12 years of negotiations, Austria agreed to the lifting of air and maritime borders, paving the way for the two countries’ partial integration into the Schengen zone.
As of March 31, 2024, travelers will no longer face checks when crossing internal air and sea borders between Romania, Bulgaria, and the rest of the Schengen zone. This change aligns with the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) seasonal schedule adjustment.
The EU Commission has praised this move, anticipating enhanced travel, trade, and tourism, and a strengthened internal market. EU Commission President von der Leyen highlighted the pride and historic significance for Bulgaria and Romania, emphasizing that they “fully belong” in the Schengen zone.
In contrast, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have pulled out of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This decision has significant implications for regional trade, security, and cooperation.
The impact of Romania and Bulgaria’s Schengen accession on global travel is substantial. With the expanded Schengen zone, travelers holding Schengen visas can visit these two nations without additional border checks. This development simplifies travel, boosts tourism, and strengthens trade ties. What about our African countries?
The implications of democratic inertia and security challenges in Africa are far-reaching and multifaceted. According to the African Development Bank, 43% of African countries have experienced unconstitutional changes of government since 2010.¹ This has led to a decline in economic growth, with Africa’s GDP growth rate expected to slow down to 3.8% in 2025.² Additionally, the Horn of Africa alone accounts for 25% of global terrorist attacks, further exacerbating the security challenges facing the continent.³
The economic implications of these challenges are significant. Africa’s infrastructure deficit is estimated to be around $100 billion annually, with 70% of African countries relying heavily on primary commodities.⁴ This makes them vulnerable to global market fluctuations, which can have devastating effects on their economies. Furthermore, the African Development Bank reports that Africa’s trade deficit widened to $80 billion in 2022, highlighting the need for diversification and economic transformation.⁵
The human development implications of these challenges are equally concerning. According to UNESCO, 40% of African children do not complete primary education, due to security challenges and poor governance.⁶ Additionally, Africa accounts for 50% of global maternal deaths, largely due to poor healthcare systems.⁷ The ILO reports that 60% of African youth are unemployed or underemployed, due to lack of economic opportunities.⁸ These statistics highlight the need for urgent action to address the development challenges facing the continent.
To address these challenges, African leaders, international partners, and civil society organizations must work together to promote democratic governance, security, and economic development. This requires investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, as well as promoting economic diversification and transformation. According to the African Development Bank, every dollar invested in Africa generates a return of $1.40 in economic growth.⁹ Therefore, investing in Africa’s development is not only a moral imperative but also a sound economic strategy.
In conclusion, Romania and Bulgaria’s entry into the Schengen zone marks a significant milestone in European integration, while Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger’s withdrawal from ECOWAS raises concerns about regional cooperation. As the global landscape continues to evolve, it’s essential to monitor these developments and their implications for international relations, trade, and travel.
Dr Chukwuemeka Ifegwu Eke writes from the University of Abuja Nigeria
