Navigating Regional Security Complexities: An Investigation into the Challenges of ECOWAS Collective Security Mechanisms

Abstract

This paper examines the obstacles faced by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in upholding collective security in the context of intricate regional threats. ECOWAS, as a regional security entity, has been instrumental in conflict prevention, peacekeeping, and crisis management throughout West Africa. Nonetheless, its security measures have considerable challenges, including as institutional deficiencies, political disparities, resource limitations, and external geopolitical factors. Adopting the regional security complex theory, the study underscores that structural inefficiencies, inconsistent execution of security measures, and constrained financial and logistical resources diminish ECOWAS’operational efficacy. The disparity in national interests among member nations frequently leads to disjointed responses to security crises, undermining the organization’s capacity for decisive action. The paper analyses the influence of external geopolitical factors, including the participation of foreign powers like France, the United States, Russia, and China, whose strategic interests occasionally clash with ECOWAS’ regional security objectives. The escalation of terrorism, insurgency, and transnational organised crime intensifies instability, as illicit arms trafficking and inadequate border controls heighten security risks. The paper conclude that for ECOWAS to augment its collective security measures, institutional reforms, enhanced intra-regional collaboration, and diminished reliance on external entities are needed. Fortifying financial autonomy, augmenting intelligence-sharing, and cultivating more self-sufficient security frameworks will be essential for enduring stability. By tackling these structural and geopolitical problems, ECOWAS can enhance its resilience and efficacy in navigating the evolving security situation of West Africa.