ECOWAS at 40: an assessment of progress towards regional integration in West Africa

Abstract

This study on the assessment of progress towards regional integration in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) was jointly prepared by the Sub-Regional Office for West Africa (SRO-WA) of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and ECOWAS. The study is within the general framework of the missions assigned to SRO-WA of the ECA. Its overall objective is to assess, on the eve of its fortieth anniversary, the progress made towards regional integration within the sub-region since the establishment of ECOWAS. ECOWAS is the main regional body in West Africa for advancing the continental integration process, as advocated by the African Union. Comprising all 15 countries of the sub-region, ECOWAS has as its objective to promote economic, social and cultural cooperation and integration, with the ultimate aim of economic and monetary union through the full economic integration of Member States, leading to enhanced living standards and greater economic stability. ECOWAS is currently a free trade zone and, on the strength of its trade liberalization scheme, is expected in due course to become a customs union.