The Political and Security Dimensions of Regional Integration in West Africa

Originally presented as an MA thesis in 2009 under the supervision of Associate-Professor Ruhanas Harun at the National University of Malaysia (UKM) this study examines political and security related issues that shaped the ECOWAS'' integration process since its inception on May 28th 1975 in Nigeria by evaluating its achievements and failures in providing political stability peace and security in West Africa. Furthermore the study articulates the nexus between development and peace. Therefore it provides some critical suggestions for the improvement of political and security dimensions as prerequisite to successful regional integration. In the meantime the study highlights the factors that once turned this regional economic community into a regional security arrangement. As such the study analyses relevant instruments and mechanisms that have been devised by the Organization to prevent and settle conflicts within its Member States.