ECOWAS Raises Concern Over Venezuela Crisis, Urges Global Respect for Sovereignty and International Law

ECOWAS has called on the international community to respect Venezuela's sovereignty amid rising global tensions

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has expressed deep concern over the unfolding political and security situation in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, calling on the international community to respect the country’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the West African regional bloc said it has been closely monitoring recent developments in Venezuela and warned against any actions that could further destabilize the South American nation or violate established principles of international law. The statement comes amid heightened global tension surrounding Venezuela, following reports of intensified foreign involvement, diplomatic pressure, and security operations that have drawn international attention and sparked debate across multiple regions of the world.

ECOWAS stressed that while nations have the right to protect themselves and address transnational threats such as terrorism, organized crime, and drug trafficking, such actions must be carried out strictly within the boundaries of international law. The bloc specifically referenced Article 2(4) of the United Nations Charter, which clearly prohibits the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.
According to ECOWAS, respect for sovereignty is not optional but a cornerstone of global peace and stability.

“The principles of sovereignty, non-interference, and territorial integrity remain fundamental to international relations,” the statement noted.

By invoking the UN Charter, ECOWAS signalled its concern that recent actions and rhetoric surrounding Venezuela could set a dangerous precedent if left unchecked.

In its statement, ECOWAS also aligned itself with the African Union (AU), which had earlier issued a communiqué on January 3, 2026, urging restraint and dialogue among all Venezuelan stakeholders.
The AU had called for an inclusive, Venezuelan-led process to address the country’s political, economic, and social challenges without external coercion or military pressure. ECOWAS said it fully supports the AU’s position, emphasizing that sustainable peace can only be achieved through dialogue, compromise, and respect for national sovereignty. This alignment reflects a broader African consensus on global conflicts, particularly those involving foreign intervention and regime change, issues that many African states have historically experienced firsthand.

Beyond diplomatic language, ECOWAS expressed clear solidarity with the people of Venezuela, acknowledging the hardships faced by ordinary citizens amid years of political instability, economic sanctions, and social unrest. The bloc emphasized that its position is not about supporting any political faction but about standing with the Venezuelan people’s right to determine their future peacefully and independently.

“ECOWAS reiterates its solidarity with the people of Venezuela as they work towards shaping the future of their country through an inclusive and peaceful process,” the statement said.

The regional body warned that actions undermining Venezuela’s territorial integrity or political independence could worsen humanitarian conditions and deepen divisions within the country.

ECOWAS’ statement strongly reinforced the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states, a doctrine that has long been central to both African and international diplomacy.
The bloc urged all states, regardless of their geopolitical interests, to refrain from actions that could escalate tensions or destabilize Venezuela further. According to ECOWAS, external pressure, particularly when backed by military or coercive measures, often produces unintended consequences that harm civilians rather than resolving political disputes. This position reflects ECOWAS’ own experiences in West Africa, where fragile political situations have sometimes been worsened by external involvement rather than resolved through dialogue.

Venezuela has been grappling with prolonged political and economic challenges for more than a decade. The country’s crisis has been shaped by internal political divisions, disputed elections, economic sanctions, hyperinflation, and mass migration. Recent developments have drawn renewed international attention, with some global powers taking a hardline stance against the Venezuelan government, while others advocate diplomatic engagement and respect for sovereignty. The situation has once again raised questions about the limits of international intervention, the role of powerful nations in smaller states, and the balance between combating international crimes and respecting national independence. ECOWAS’ intervention adds an important voice from the Global South, reminding the world that international law must apply equally to all nations, regardless of size or influence.

Analysts note that Africa’s strong stance on Venezuela is shaped by its own historical experiences with foreign intervention, colonialism, and externally imposed political solutions. Many African nations, including those within ECOWAS, have endured decades of instability fueled by external interference in their domestic affairs. As a result, African regional organizations often emphasize dialogue, negotiation, and regional solutions over forceful intervention. ECOWAS’ position on Venezuela is consistent with its broader diplomatic philosophy, which prioritizes peaceful resolution of conflicts, respect for sovereignty, and African-led solutions to African problems, principles it now extends to global affairs.

Both ECOWAS and the African Union have consistently stressed that inclusive dialogue remains the most viable path toward resolving Venezuela’s challenges. Such dialogue, they argue, must involve all key political actors, civil society groups, and representatives of the Venezuelan people, without exclusion or external imposition. The bloc warned that sidelining dialogue in favor of coercive measures could deepen mistrust, fuel resistance, and prolong instability. Instead, ECOWAS urged the international community to support diplomatic efforts that promote reconciliation, economic recovery, and long-term stability.

ECOWAS’ statement also highlights the growing role of African regional blocs in global diplomacy.
Once largely focused on regional affairs, organizations like ECOWAS are increasingly engaging in international issues, offering perspectives rooted in international law, multilateralism, and shared historical experiences. By speaking out on Venezuela, ECOWAS demonstrates its commitment to a rules-based global order where sovereignty and equality among nations are respected. This growing assertiveness reflects Africa’s desire to shape global narratives rather than merely respond to decisions made elsewhere.

While the statement was measured in tone, analysts view it as a clear warning against further escalation in Venezuela. ECOWAS cautioned that actions undermining sovereignty could have ripple effects beyond Venezuela, destabilizing entire regions and eroding trust in international institutions. The bloc urged global actors to consider the long-term consequences of their actions and to prioritize peace over confrontation.
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In conclusion, ECOWAS’ statement on Venezuela underscores a fundamental message: global peace and stability depend on respect for sovereignty, adherence to international law, and commitment to dialogue.
By aligning with the African Union and reaffirming support for the Venezuelan people, ECOWAS has positioned itself as a strong advocate for non-interference and peaceful conflict resolution. As tensions surrounding Venezuela continue to draw global attention, the call from West Africa serves as a reminder that lasting solutions cannot be imposed from outside but must emerge from within, guided by dialogue, inclusivity, and respect for national independence. The international community, ECOWAS insists, must choose restraint over confrontation and diplomacy over force, not just for Venezuela, but for the integrity of the global order itself.

By Primelineinfo