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Since independence, the West African sub-region has been an arena for a number of large-scale conflicts and civil wars, as well as simmering and low-intensity uprisings. Contrary to perceptions, West Africa in its post-independence history has experienced fewer conflict events and fatalities from conflict than the other sub-regions on the continent. The turn of the millennium has witnessed the recession of large-scale and conventional conflict, and it has ushered in new and emerging threats. The specters of religious extremism, maritime piracy, and narcotics trafficking threaten toundermine so

This book seeks to critically examine the challenges of fragility and security in West Africa, along with the factors of resilience. It seeks to investigate key drivers of conflict and violence, and the way in which they impact the countries of the subregion. Along with emerging threats and challenges, these include the challenge of youth inclusion; migration; regional imbalances; extractives; the fragility of political institutions and managing the competition for power; security; and land. The book explores how the subregion, under the auspices of the regional organization ECOWAS has become a pioneer on the continent in terms of addressing regional challenges. This book also seeks to identify key lessons in the dynamics of resilience against political violence and civil war, drawn from countries such as Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Cote d'Ivoire that can be useful for countries around the world in the midst of similar situations. Finally, it draws on knowledge and findings from a series background papers written by leading experts, and provides insights from the perspectives of academics and development practitioners.

"Over the past two decades, Africa has seen dozens of conflicts over a variety of issues. Responding to these conflicts requires concerted action to manage the crises--the violence, the political discord, and the humanitarian consequences of prolonged fighting. But it is also necessary to rebuild communities, societies and states torn apart by the conflict, addressing the long-term social and economic impact of the conflict. To do so, it is necessary to look at institutions and groups rarely considered in formal official conflict management activities of African and partner governments--schools, universities, religious institutions, media, commercial enterprises, legal institutions, civil society groups, youth, women and migrants. These entities can potentially play an important role in building a sense of identity, fairness, shared norms, and a cohesion between state and society--all critical components of the fabric of peace and security in Africa. This book brings together leading experts from Africa, Europe and North America to examine these critical social institutions and groups and identify how they can either build or impede peaceful resolution of conflicts and commitment to common purpose. This book will open new doors of understanding for students, scholars and practitioners focused on bringing strengthening peace in Africa."--