THE ROLE OF EXTERNAL ACTORS IN FUELING SEPARATIST CONFLICTS IN PARTS OF WEST AFRICA AND ECOWAS RESPONSE

Abstract

Separatist conflicts in West Africa pose significant threats to regional stability, security, and economic development. While these conflicts often stem from local grievances such as ethnic marginalization and political exclusion, the involvement of external actors—foreign governments, multinational corporations, and international non-state entities—has amplified tensions and prolonged crises. This study investigates the role of external actors in fueling separatist conflicts, exploring their motivations, strategies, and the consequences for regional peace and integration. It also evaluates the Economic Community of West African States' (ECOWAS) responses to these challenges. Employing a qualitative research methodology and secondary data, the study draws on case studies, policy reviews, and conflict analysis. It is anchored in dependency theory and regional security theory to provide a comprehensive understanding of how external influences intertwine with local dynamics. Findings reveal that external actors often exploit separatist grievances for geopolitical advantage, resource extraction, or destabilization strategies, exacerbating conflicts and undermining ECOWAS's integration efforts. ECOWAS’s interventions, though notable, frequently lack the coordination and capacity to address the multifaceted nature of external involvement. The study concludes that mitigating the impact of external actors requires ECOWAS to strengthen its regional governance mechanisms, enhance intelligence-sharing among member states, and engage in strategic partnerships with global stakeholders. It recommends robust policies aimed at curbing illicit external influences and fostering inclusive governance within member states to address the root causes of separatist movements. By doing so, ECOWAS can safeguard regional stability and advance its vision of unity and development.