West Africa: Ecowas needs rapid reaction capability

The Ivorian crisis and the threat posed to peace and security by the numerous conflicts in the sub-region with their adverse effects on socio-economic development make it imperative for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to seriously consider the formation of a permanent ECOWAS rapid reaction capability to enable it to respond quickly and effectively to crisis situations. Similarly, ECOWAS member states should take steps to strengthen their political and security structures to enable them to prevent and resolve violent conflicts to ensure peace and stability in the sub-region. Otherwise, the objective of ECOWAS to raise the living standards of its people will ring increasingly hollow, according to an article on the web site of the African Security Dialogue.