Role of Regional Organization in Preventing and Resolving Coup De’tat Crisis in West Africa, 2020-2025

Abstract

The renewed wave of military coups in West Africa since 2020 represents a significant setback to democratic consolidation and regional stability. Despite established regional norms against unconstitutional changes of government, countries such as Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, and Niger have experienced repeated coups, which are detrimental to the region. This study explores the factors responsible for the resurgence of military coups in West Africa and examines the role of regional organizations in preventing and resolving coup d’état crises, with particular focus on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) between 2020 and 2025. Guided by neoliberal institutionalism, the study adopts a qualitative research design, drawing on in-depth interviews, policy documents, reports, and scholarly literature.
Findings indicate that the resurgence of military coups is largely driven by poor governance, corruption, weak democratic institutions, electoral manipulation, insecurity, and socio-economic deprivation, which undermine public trust in civilian governments. The study further finds that ECOWAS has employed sanctions, mediation, diplomatic engagement, and peace support mechanisms in response to coup crises. However, its effectiveness has been constrained by institutional limitations, inconsistent enforcement, popular support for military juntas, and geopolitical pressures. The study concludes that strengthening early warning mechanisms, consistent enforcement of democratic norms, and addressing governance deficits are essential for preventing future coups in the sub-region. It recommends that ECOWAS engage member-state leadership to address root causes through inclusive, transparent governance and enforce sanctions consistently against coup perpetrators.