West Africa Peacebuilding Network (WANEP) yesterday convened the 18th General Assembly, bringing stakeholders together to discuss the future of multilateralism and regionalism in West Africa.
The two-day conference, “shaping the future of multilateralism and regionalism in West Africa,” aims to explore the challenges and opportunities of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) promoting regional peace, security and sustainable development.
At the opening of the conference at Accra, Mrs. Levinia adddae-Mensah, executive director of Wanep, emphasized the importance of conducting successful elections in Ghana and Senegal in 2024, saying these events have strengthened democracy in West Africa.
“The elections in Ghana and Senegal, the success story of 2024, gives us a new sense of hope for the region,” she said.
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Mrs. Adae Mensa highlighted the complexities facing West Africa, including growing anxiety, growing terrorism, democratic backslides, regional fragmentation and violent extremism.
She said these challenges have led to increased humanitarian effects and have impacted energy access, education and other important areas.
She cited success in promoting peaceful democratic transitions in countries such as Ghana and Senegal, highlighting the importance of adapting to the rapidly evolving landscape and enduring solutions to the challenges.
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Despite these challenges, Mrs. Adae Mensa showed that Wanep plays an important role in fostering peaceful democratic transitions in countries such as Ghana and Senegal.
The executive director noted that the future of CSOs across West Africa and Africa is at a critical time as the region navigated the major changes in multilateralism and regionalism.
Dr. Philip Atucuefio, a researcher at the Legon Centre for International Affairs and Diplomacy (LECIAD) at the University of Ghana, said the evolving landscape of multilateralism and regionalism in West Africa is characterized by a decline in the influence of western-led international organizations, increased authoritarianism and deeper economic integration.
Furthermore, he stated that amid the key changes in multilateralism and regionalism, the future of West African CSOs is defined by their adaptability, innovation and strategic engagement.
“Therefore, CSOs must be bold, innovative and strategic in their approach to navigating complex and evolving landscapes, ensuring that the region remains on the path to peace, security and prosperity for all,” he emphasized.
Dr. George Amo, executive director of the National Council of Peace, highlighted the urgent need to protect the democratic interests of West Africa, which had been eroded by the conflict.
