ABSTRACT
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is a regional political and economic union of fifteen countries located in West Africa. At its inception on May 28 1975 by the signing of the Treaty of Lagos, the stated goal of the geo-political organization; ECOWAS, was to achieve “Collective Self-Sufficiency” for its member states by creating a single large trade bloc by building a full economic and trading union.1 Additionally, ECOWAS aimed to raise living standards and promote economic development. However, over the years the need to address recurring conflicts, promoting regional stability, responding to the changing security landscape, empowering regional leadership and a culmination of other factors in West Africa led to the 11 establishment of an ECOWAS Security Architecture. The Protocol Regarding Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping, and Security, adopted in December 1999, stands out as one of the most extensive frameworks concerning peace and security in the sub-region.2 It encompasses peacekeeping efforts, humanitarian aid, peacebuilding initiatives, and the tackling of cross-border crimes.3 Additionally, ECOWAS member nations ratified the Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance in 2001, aiming to enhance peace and security across West Africa.4 Originating in 1999, this holistic approach serves as a crucial mechanism for fostering stability and security within the region. The ECOWAS Security Architecture plays a pivotal role in preventing conflicts, managing ongoing disputes, and facilitating post-conflict peacebuilding efforts.
