ECOWAS AND STRATEGIC AUTONOMY OF THE GLOBAL SOUTH IN INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Abiola Abayomi Isikalu, Michael Ihuoma Ogu (PhD), Joffrey Andrew Doma

Abstract


ECOWAS has not only produced a regional framework for economic integration but has also been at the forefront of subregional security efforts in West Africa. However, the subregion has been mired by political instability and a lack of human security indicators, that have left the subregion arguably steeped in poverty and deep-seated frustrations. This paper proposes that due to its overarching structures, ECOWAS can serve as the starting point for the attainment of strategic autonomy in the African region, under a framework of ‘shared sovereignty’. The paper uses the thematic analyses of human security and collectivism to advocate a developmental context for an African strategic autonomy. The paper finds that development of the capacities of its burgeoning youth population is crucial, as well as political willingness of the political elite, if ECOWAS is to rise as the supremo model for an African strategic autonomy.


Keywords


ECOWAS, Human security, International development, Shared sovereignty, Strategic autonomy, West Africa

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