CORE ISSUES AND CHALLENGES OF ECOWAS IN THE 20TH AND 21ST CENTURY

ABSTRACT

The study examines ECOWAS and the economic integration process in West Africa. The central argument of the study is that ECOWAS was established to tackle the problem of economic disarticulation in West Africa. However, the organization grapples with daunting economic, political, and socio-cultural problems over the year hindering its agenda of economic integration. Despites these challenges, ECOWAS made torturous exploits including harmonization of tariffs, non-restriction of movements within its trading zones, an attempt for common currency among others. In terms of politics, ECOWAS countries have achieved democratic status and the organization also assisted in conflict management across the countries in the zone. Going forward, ECOWAS has prospects. First, is the achievement of democracy in ECOWAS countries conducive for economic and political integration. Second, ECOWAS countries have embraced globalization and its benefits for accelerated economic harmonization in the 21st century.