ECOWAS Moves to Activate ECOSOC as Experts Meet in Accra By Raymond Enoch
Experts from across Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have gathered in Accra, Republic of Ghana as the institution moved a step closer to activating one of its long-awaited institutions — the ECOWAS Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOWAS-ECOSOC).
The meeting, convened by the ECOWAS Commission through its Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security, brought together specialists from Member States ahead of a crucial ministerial session that will validate and formally operationalise the council.
For regional policymakers, the move signals a new push to open ECOWAS decision-making to a broader range of voices beyond government officials.
The proposed ECOSOC, provided for under Article 14 of the 1993 Revised ECOWAS Treaty, is designed to serve as a consultative body linking regional institutions with civil society groups, professional bodies, youth organisations, women’s networks and the private sector.
Sources close to Paradigm News say the initiative aims to strengthen inclusive governance within the regional bloc at a time when West Africa faces mounting political, security and economic challenges.
Paradigm News gathered that experts at the meeting in Accra are examining the institutional framework, operational structure and modalities that will guide the functioning of the council once approved by council of ministers.
Further once operational the council is expected to provide policy advice, promote dialogue between governments and non-state actors, and ensure that the voices of citizens are reflected in regional policies.
The Commission has adopted what it calls a phased approach to bringing the council into operation, beginning with consultations with Member States and technical experts before final endorsement at the ministerial level.
Observers note that once made operational, ECOWAS-ECOSOC could significantly reshape how the regional body interacts with civil society, potentially giving organised groups a formal channel to influence policy discussions on regional integration, peace and development.
The Accra consultations are therefore being seen as a decisive step in turning a long-standing treaty provision into a functioning institution.
If endorsed by ministers in the coming days, ECOWAS-ECOSOC could become one of the bloc’s most important platforms for citizen engagement in regional governance.
For many participants at the meeting, the message is clear: regional integration in West Africa must now move beyond governments to include the voices of the people themselves.
