CIVIL CONFLICT RESOLUTION MECHANISMS OF ECONOMIC COMMUNITY OF WEST AFRICAN STATES IN LIBERIA AND SIERRA LEONE

The prolonged civil conflicts in Liberia and Sierra Leone during the late 20th and early 21st centuries posed significant threats to peace, security, and development within West African sub-region. In response, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has initiated various conflict resolution mechanisms to restore stability. This study examined the mechanisms adopted by ECOWAS in managing and resolving the civil wars in both countries, with a view to examining the effectiveness, challenges, and long-term implications for regional peacebuilding. Secondary data was utilized, drawing from reports, scholarly works, and policy documents detailing ECOWAS interventions. The study adopted regional security complex theory by Barry Buzan and Ole Waever, as the framework. ECOWAS’s interventions through the deployment of the ECOMOG peacekeeping force, facilitation of peace agreements, and engagement with local and international stakeholders contributed significantly to ending hostilities and initiating post-war recovery. Limitations: inadequate resources, political divisions among member states, and dependence on external partners hindered the sustainability of peace efforts. The ECOWAS experience in Liberia and Sierra Leone underscored the importance of regional organizations in conflict management, while highlighting the need for strengthened institutional capacity, enhanced early-warning systems, and greater political will among member states to prevent future conflicts. ECOWAS, policymakers, and stakeholders should continue fostering regional cooperation, inclusivity, and dialogue as key instruments for lasting peace. Keywords: ECOWAS, Conflict resolution, Peacekeeping, Liberia, Sierra Leone Word count: 217