The leaders of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have made the decision to leave the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), stating that the organization has strayed from its original purpose and failed to support them in their fight against terrorism. The three countries have faced strained relations with ECOWAS since military coups led to their suspension from the organization. They have also withdrawn from an international force and formed their own alliance in response to perceived lack of assistance from ECOWAS.