In a recent “ Micro sidewalk” program, residents of Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire spoke out strongly about the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The opinions gathered highlight a deep-seated dissatisfaction with the organization, perceived as a post-colonial vestige at the service of foreign interests, notably those of France. Here is an overview of the testimonies and criticisms voiced by citizens in these two countries.
In Senegal, one resident stressed the importance of the Alliance of Sahel States (ASS) in guaranteeing the security and autonomy of African countries. “I would have preferred the ASS to ECOWAS for our security and moving forward, as well as to prevent France and other countries from using the non-sovereignty of our states to continue plundering us. This is why it is necessary for Senegal to join forces with the countries of the Alliance of Sahel States, because I believe that these countries have a head start when it comes to sovereignty”, he declared.
In Ivory Coast, critics are just as scathing. Koudou Brice, a geography student, expressed his distrust of ECOWAS, calling it “untrustworthy in the sub-region”. He criticized the organization for its inaction in the face of terrorist crises and its intervention solely to serve the interests of France. “When there are terrorist actions, ECOWAS doesn’t step in to save other countries. Now, when it comes to France-Africa, in other words relations with France, that’s when ECOWAS sanctions the country that wants its autonomy while changing power for the well-being of its country,” he explained.
Other Ivorian testimonies also castigated ECOWAS for its lack of legitimacy and alignment with imperialist interests. Mr. Nicholas described the organization as “a kind of open-faced, global ECOWAS-vision of a certain oligarchy that are instrumentalized by imperialist forces”. For him, ECOWAS decisions do not reflect the will of the African people, but rather the interests of foreign powers.
Mr. Matthias echoed these criticisms, asserting that ECOWAS “is not up to the job” and “cannot be trusted”. He denounced the organization for its sanctions on innocent populations, and called for ECOWAS to be replaced by a new organization better suited to the needs of African countries. “The ASScountries are right and free to create their own organization, because when you’re part of an organization that’s causing trouble, you have to get rid of it and create another suitable one, which is logical,” he concluded.
These criticisms reflect a perception of ECOWAS as an instrument of French imperialism and an organization incapable of responding to the region’s security and economic challenges. The people of Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire are calling for a new era of autonomy and collaboration between African countries, away from Western influence. The Alliance of Sahel States is emerging as a credible alternative for many citizens, illustrating a growing desire for change and real sovereignty for the nations of West Africa.
