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The ECOWAS Free Movement Protocol: Obstacle or Driver of Regional Integration?

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Protocol relating to the Free Movement of Persons, Residence and Establishment was approved by the ECOWAS heads of state and the government in Dakar on 29 May 1979. It was conceived as one of the bedrocks of regional integration efforts in West Africa in the firm belief that free movement of persons, goods, services and capital not only constitutes the fundamental basis for enhancing and consolidating the dividends of economic integration under the auspices of the ECOWAS but is also capable of influencing positively the harmonious development of social, economic and cultural activities within the sub-region. It is in the light of the above that this article examines the main elements and limitations of the ECOWAS Free Movement Protocols. It evaluates the degree to which the protocols have been implemented and identifies if they have served as a driver or an obstacle to regional integration in West Africa.