United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon says the Security Council should consider sanctions against people engaged in terrorist or criminal activities in northern Mali.
Mr Ban said the Council should consider asset freezes and travel bans against the rebels, who are widely condemnated for human rights abuses.
He added the area was in danger of becoming a "safe haven" for terrorists, following a military coup in March.
A mediator from Ecowas has met their leaders in Mali and asked them to cut ties with al-Qaeda in the hope of starting peace talks between the rebels and the government.
However, Mr Ban said no meaningful dialogue had begun.
