The question of regional integration in West Africa is currently a topic of intense debate, sparking discussions on the future of cooperation among the countries in the region. A recent virtual round table organized by Gilles Yabi in collaboration with the OECD Sahel and West Africa Club shed light on the challenges and opportunities associated with regional integration for West Africa’s development.
The recent decision of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso to simultaneously withdraw from ECOWAS has brought to the forefront the viability and relevance of the regional organization. This move has raised concerns about the existing political and institutional systems within the region.
Experts at the round table emphasized the critical role of regional integration in fostering economic and social development in West Africa. They also pointed out the deficiencies and dysfunction within ECOWAS, particularly in terms of leadership and governance.
Ibrahima Kane, the Special Advisor to the Open Society Foundation for Africa, highlighted the lack of political leadership within ECOWAS and outlined the organization’s current challenges. He also underscored the impact of external interference on regional stability and solidarity.
Malian economist Modibo Mao Makalou drew attention to the detrimental effects of economic sanctions imposed on Mali and Niger, stressing the need for a more inclusive and dialogue-driven approach to address political and institutional crises.
Lori-Anne Théroux-Bénoni, the director of the ISS for West Africa, emphasized the importance of security cooperation among regional countries to combat security threats and terrorism that jeopardize the stability of West Africa.
The issue of regional integration goes beyond political leaders and resonates with economic and social stakeholders in the region. Didier Acouetey, the founder of Afric Search, underscored the economic advantages of regional integration for entrepreneurs and businesses in West Africa.
In addition to economic implications, regional integration in West Africa raises fundamental questions regarding democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Emphasizing an inclusive and human rights-centered approach is crucial to ensuring the stability and prosperity of the region.
In conclusion, the future of regional integration in West Africa hinges on the political will of regional leaders and stakeholders to surmount current obstacles and tensions in building a collective future grounded in solidarity, cooperation, and mutual respect.
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