Systematic Analysis Of The Security And Economic Implications Of Migration And Regional Conflict In West Africa

Abstract

The study analyses the security and economic implications of migration and regional conflict in west Africa. Although this issue has rarely been tackled in official or academic fora, it mirrors the author's interest that in an age of globalization, migration and insecurity are two inextricably woven issues that have remained a major threat to the sovereignty of states in the West African region. This has dire consequences for the security and stability of the region at large. The paper observes that climate change and environmental factors, food crises, refugee flow, poverty, and unemployment, are major causes of migration. The paper employed a comprehensive desk review methods that depends on the analysis of secondary data sources. Finally, the paper concludes that the desire to improve one's material existence and achieve more secure and meaningful lives drives people to move and construct, deconstruct, and reconstruct their social relations. To tackle the problem of immigration the paper recommended that the root causes of immigration, such as poverty, violence, and lack of economic opportunities in the home countries should be addressed. This will require foreign aid, diplomatic efforts, and cooperation with international organizations to address issues of poverty, lack of economic opportunities that drive people to leave their home countries for greener pastures.