What are the consequences of withdrawal from ECOWAS by member states?4 answersThe consequences of withdrawal from ECOWAS by member states can have significant impacts on regional cooperation, economic stability, and security. The inability of ECOWAS to achieve political stability and protect the integrity of its member states has been a major challenge. The Covid-19 pandemic has further highlighted the lack of supranationalism within ECOWAS, as member states unilaterally imposed conflicting border closure policies without following the protocols. Additionally, the decay and decline of ECOWAS in terms of efficiency and collective regional security management have weakened its independent initiatives and allowed for encroachment by external forces. The withdrawal of member states from ECOWAS could further undermine the organization's ability to foster regional integration, economic growth, and stability. It is important for ECOWAS to address these challenges and strengthen its governance, security, and economic empowerment initiatives to prevent further withdrawals and ensure the long-term prosperity and stability of the West African region.
What is the impact of non-tariff measures on rice imports in ECOWAS?5 answersNon-tariff measures (NTMs) have a significant impact on rice imports in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region. The application of both technical and non-technical measures has been found to have a trade-restricting effect, with non-technical measures being more trade-restrictive. The main sectors affected by NTMs in intra-African trade, particularly in the ECOWAS region, are rice and sugar. The implementation of a regional bulk purchase of imported rice in ECOWAS could help mitigate the adverse effects of NTMs on rice imports and improve the balance between rice imports and production in West African countries. However, further research is needed to determine the specific policy and institutional arrangements required for the effectiveness of such a scheme.
How successful has EAC been in fostering economic cooperation in East Africa?3 answersThe East African Community (EAC) has been successful in fostering economic cooperation in East Africa. The EAC integration process has promoted trade creation and economic growth among its member states, leading to improved regional prosperity, employment, trade, security, and stability. The EAC has implemented various stages of economic integration, including a customs union and a common market, and has made progress towards a political federation. Intra-regional trade within the EAC has increased since the 1990s, indicating the benefits of cooperation, although there are challenges such as trade concentration and the dominance of certain member states. Overall, while there are areas that need to be addressed, the EAC has been successful in promoting economic cooperation and integration in East Africa.
What is the role of ECOWAS in crisis management in West Africa?5 answersECOWAS plays a crucial role in crisis management in West Africa. It has been involved in de-escalating violence and resolving conflicts in countries such as Mali, Côte d’Ivoire, and the Gambia. The organization has adopted security as one of its key functions and has been recognized as a viable institution for intervention in matters of security in the region. ECOWAS has utilized various mechanisms such as mediation, peace enforcement, peacekeeping, diplomacy, negotiation, election observation, and litigation to bring about peace in conflict-affected areas. It has also developed a comprehensive conflict management and security framework, which has led to significant achievements in conflict management in West Africa. However, the inefficiency of ECOWAS in resolving conflicts and the lack of financial and technical resources have been identified as challenges to its intervention efforts. Overall, ECOWAS plays a crucial role in crisis management in West Africa, but there are areas for improvement and the need for greater synergy and political will to address the challenges in the region.
How can businesses in developing countries be more competitive?4 answersBusinesses in developing countries can enhance their competitiveness through various strategies. One approach is to focus on incremental and adaptive innovations, which are more suitable for developing countries than radical innovations. Additionally, joining international supply chains can provide opportunities for smaller and less productive firms to upgrade their technical capabilities and enhance growth. Policies that manage the timing, sequencing, and type of market-opening steps can also make a difference in improving competitiveness. Furthermore, the transition to digital technologies and the implementation of digital solutions in business can strengthen the competitiveness of enterprises in developing countries. Finally, the insulation of incumbent firms from competition in developing countries due to market imperfections can be addressed to promote competition intensity and improve competitiveness.
How do illicit businesses impact the economies of third world countries?5 answersIllicit businesses have significant impacts on the economies of third world countries. They bring in substantial foreign capital, but this capital often undermines long-term economic development and fosters a dependency on illicit sectors. Illicit financial flows, which involve cross-border movements to conceal illegal activities and evade taxes, deprive developing countries of resources needed for investment and infrastructure building, hindering economic growth. These flows also contribute to political changes, weakening state institutions, and increasing corruption and rent-seeking. The scale of illicit economies, such as the drug trade, is difficult to measure due to their clandestine nature, presenting methodological and epistemological challenges for researchers. Illicit economies extend beyond drugs and encompass various shadow markets, blurring the distinction between legal and illegal activities and involving state actors in illegal markets. Overall, illicit businesses have detrimental effects on the economies of third world countries, impeding development and perpetuating dependency on illicit sectors.