ECOWAS and Military Interventions in West African Sub-Region: Causes and Effects

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has become a pivotal regional body in addressing security and political instability within the West African sub-region. Since its establishment in 1975, the organisation has gradually expanded its mandate beyond economic cooperation to include peacekeeping and military interventions aimed at safeguarding democratic governance, regional security, and stability. This study critically examines the causes and effects of ECOWAS military interventions in the West African sub-region. It identifies key drivers such as unconstitutional changes of government, electoral disputes, insurgencies, terrorism, and cross-border conflicts as recurring triggers of intervention. The research further highlights how fragile state institutions, poor governance, corruption, and ethnic tensions exacerbate these crises. In assessing the effects, the study reveals a dual impact: while ECOWAS interventions have helped in restoring order, preventing large-scale humanitarian crises, and reinforcing democratic transitions, they have also generated controversies related to sovereignty, human rights violations, over-reliance on external support, and limited sustainability of peace efforts. The paper argues that despite its achievements, ECOWAS faces significant challenges in terms of financial constraints, political will, and capacity to enforce long-term solutions. This study contributes to the discourse on regional security by offering a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding ECOWAS interventions, emphasizing the need for stronger institutional mechanisms, preventive diplomacy, and inclusive governance to foster sustainable peace in West Africa.