The Economic Causes and Consequences of Civil Wars and Unrest in Africa: Address to the 70th ordinary session of the council of ministers of the organization of African unity by K. Y. Amoako UN under-secretary-general and executive secretary of ECA

Abstract

This address delivered by K. Y. Amoako UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ECA to the 70th Ordinary Session of the Council of Ministers of the Organization of African Unity. Mr. Amoako, on his remarks highlighted that, there continue to be common misperceptions as to what are the fundamental causes of the conflicts, which have set back national development in so many African countries. We owe ourselves a closer look at their causes -- as well as, if you will, the determinants of peace. Various analysts in political science, anthropology and other sciences have looked at the causes of all our conflict, so perhaps it is only fair that we economists are having our turn, aided by regression analysis and other tools of our trade. There are many cases where the failure by governments to address national grievances has led to conflict and war. Clearly, civil conflict is less probable in a full democracy. The more democratic the society, the more it has outlets for frustration and ways to seek solutions. The more governments respond to the issues people have, the lower the risk of civil war. With the emerging consensus about the important role of regional institutions in this area, the challenge at hand is to see how we can best assist African countries emerging out of conflict towards sustained and durable peace in Africa. An appropriate point of departure is to draw on the work and experience of our regional economic communities in this field.