Paper short abstract:

This paper analyses the structure, the composition of the ECOWAS early warning system. Drawing from fieldwork completed late 2012 in 8 West African countries, I'll demonstrate the system, though essential for the stability of the region, lacks efficiency because of structural and methodological problems

Paper long abstract:

Though in the grip of violent conflicts, West Africa has developed an advanced regional security mechanism. Since the 1970s, the Economic Community Of West African States -ECOWAS-, within the framework of regional security mechanisms, has designed and set up several protocols and agreements in order to stabilize the region. ECOWAS' early warning system collects and analyses data for conflict prevention. With four "bureau zone", the system has to provide real time reports and analyses allowing to intervene quickly and efficiently in response to the deterioration of a security situation anywhere in the region.

The aim of this paper is to analyse the structure and the composition of the Early Warning System of ECOWAS as well as its methods for data collection and analysis. The efficiency of its emergency procedures will also be reviewed.

The analysis draws on fieldwork and interviews (from October to November 2012) with different "bureaux zones" staff, local organizations, think thanks and private analysts.

Preliminary results show that the ECOWAS Early Warning System is an important and necessary mechanism for the stability of the region. However, its functioning is impaired by problems such as a shortage of staff, inadequate information collection methods, a strong bureaucratic system and the reluctance of organisation members to implement recommendations.

In summary, the ECOWAS Early Warning System could be a major mechanism to prevent and reduce conflict in West Africa. To be efficient, the mechanism needs means and hires the necessary staff, improve its structure and resolve functioning problems.