SECESSIONIST CONFLICT IN THE CASAMANCE REGION OF SENEGAL AND THE ROLE OF ECOWAS IN SOLVING THE CONFLICT

Abstract

The secessionist conflict in the Casamance region of Senegal has been a significant challenge to national unity and regional stability in West Africa. This article explores the origins of the conflict, the role of the Movement of Democratic Forces of Casamance (MFDC), and the intervention efforts by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in resolving the crisis. Using a qualitative research approach, the study examines the historical, socio-political, and economic factors driving the Casamance secessionist movement and evaluates ECOWAS's mediation and peacekeeping efforts. Post-colonial theory serves as the theoretical framework to understand the root causes of the conflict, emphasizing the colonial legacy of arbitrary borders and ethnic divisions. The findings highlight the complexity of the conflict and the limited success of ECOWAS's interventions, suggesting that a more comprehensive approach is necessary for long-term peace and stability in the region.