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7International relations
Правильная ссылка на статью:
Bokeriya S., Nguevese G. ECOWAS peacekeeping missions and their effects on West African nations // Международные отношения. 2024. № 3. DOI: 10.7256/2454-0641.2024.3.71338 EDN: MPBBFN URL: https://nbpublish.com'library_read_article.php?id=71338
ECOWAS peacekeeping missions and their effects on West African nations / Миротворческие миссии ЭКОВАС и их влияние на страны Западной Африки
Бокерия Светлана Александровна
ORCID: 0000-0002-9052-4363 кандидат юридических наук
доцент; кафедра теории и истории международных отношений; Российский университет дружбы
народов имени Патриса Лумумбы
117198, Россия, г. Москва, ул. Миклухо-Маклая, 6 И [email protected]
1+уевесе Гбаа Эммануэлла
студент; факультет гуманитарных и социальных наук; Российский университет дружбы народов имени
Патриса Лумумбы
117198, Россия, г. Москва, ул. М/жлуно-Маклая, 6 И [email protected]
Статья из рубрики "МИРОТВОРЧЕСКИЕ ОПЕРАЦИИ"
DOI:
10.7256/2454-0641.2024.3.71338
EDN:
MPBBFN
Дата направления статьи в редакцию:
25-07-2024
Аннотация: Объектом исследования являются миротворческие миссии ЭКОВАС в Западной Африке. Предметом исследования является миротворчество ЭКОВАС. Цель данной статьи - рассмотреть миротворческие миссии ЭКОВАС в Либерии, Сьерра-Леоне, Береге Слоновой Кости, в Буркина-Фасо, Гвинее-Бисау и Гамбии, их мандаты, достижения, вызовы и проблемы. Задачами статьи выступают сравнение миротворческих
миссий ЭКОВАС с точки зрения их влияния и роли в формировании будущего Западной Африки, а также оценка вызовов и проблем, с которыми сталкивается ЭКОВАС на пути повышения эффективности миротворческих миссий. Актуальность темы исследования обусловлена возросшей ролью региональных акторов в миротворчестве на африканском континенте. Экономическое сообщество западноафриканских государств (ЭКОВАС) возглавляет усилия по укреплению мира и безопасности во всем регионе Западной Африки. Благодаря своей деятельности по поддержанию мира и урегулированию конфликтов, ЭКОВАС внесло большой вклад в формирование политики государств Западной Африки. Исследование основано на принципах анализа и синтеза, достоверности и объективности. Методологической базой статьи является системный подход, в основе которого лежит рассмотрение объекта как целостной совокупности взаимосвязанных элементов. Использован сравнительный метод для исследования миротворческих миссий ЭКОВАС, а также проблемно-хронологический метод при анализе формирования механизмов миротворчества ЭКОВАС в Западной Африке. Научная новизна статьи заключается в стремлении авторов охарактеризовать, используя широкий круг источников и научной литературы, миротворческие миссии ЭКОВАС и их влияние на страны Западной Африки. На основании институционального анализа деятельности ЭКОВАС в области миротворчества в Западной Африке и сравнительного анализа конфликтов в Либерии, Сьерра-Леоне, Береге Слоновой Кости, в Буркина-Фасо, Гвинее-Бисау и Гамбии, авторы пришли к выводу, что ЭКОВАС продолжает оставаться лидером в обеспечении мира и стабильности в Африке, а ее опыт, механизмы и инструменты разрешения кризисов в странах Западной Африки могут быть использованы не только для урегулирования существующих, но и для предупреждения возникновения новых конфликтов на африканском континенте.
Ключевые слова:
Миротворчество, Разрешение конфликтов, Безопасность, Э КО ВАС,Западная Африка, Региональная интеграция, Миротворческие миссии, Экономическое развитие, Геополитические вызовы, Национальное примирение
Исследование выполнено за счет гранта Российского научного фонда (проект № 23-2801195).
The research was funded by the Russian Science Foundation (project № 23-28-01195).
Introduction
In the dynamic landscape of West Africa, characterized by diverse cultures, histories, and geopolitical challenges, the pursuit of peace and stability stands as a paramount endeavor
■Ш. Amidst the complexities of regional conflicts and internal strife, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has emerged as a beacon of hope, championing peace missions aimed at fostering harmony and prosperity across the region
Through its concerted efforts in peacekeeping and conflict resolution, ECOWAS has played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of West African nations, leaving an indelible
mark on the collective journey towards peace Established in 1975, ECOWAS represents a visionary union of 15 member states, bound by a shared commitment to regional integration, economic development, and, crucially, peace and security ■^i. From its inception, ECOWAS has recognized the intrinsic link between peace and progress, understanding that sustainable development hinges upon a foundation of stability and
tranquility. As such, the organization has steadfastly pursued a multifaceted approach to peacekeeping, leveraging diplomatic, political, and military means to address the myriad
challenges confronting the region ^^ The scope and significance of ECOWAS peace missions extend far beyond mere interventions in moments of crisis; they epitomize a collective
resolve to safeguard the aspirations of West African nations and their people ^ Through initiatives such as the ECOWAS Protocol on Non-Aggression (1978) and the Mechanism for Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping, and Security (1999), ECOWAS has institutionalized mechanisms for proactive engagement in conflict prevention and
resolution, laying the groundwork for a culture of peace within the region [7].
Moreover, the history of ECOWAS peace missions is replete with compelling narratives of resilience, perseverance, and triumph in the face of adversity. From the pioneering ECOWAS Ceasefire Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) intervention in Liberia (1990) to the landmark efforts in Sierra Leone (1999) and Ivory Coast (2002), ECOWAS has demonstrated its capacity to deploy peacekeeping forces swiftly and decisively, often in the most challenging of
circumstances These missions have not only quelled violence and restored stability,
but have also paved the way for democratic governance, national reconciliation, and the consolidation of peace dividends -t^.
Despite the undeniable successes of ECOWAS peace missions, the road to peace in West Africa remains fraught with complexities and uncertainties. Persistent challenges, ranging from transnational threats to governance deficits, underscore the need for sustained commitment and innovation in the realm of peacekeeping. Moreover, the evolving nature of conflict, characterized by non-state actors, asymmetric warfare, and emerging security
threats, necessitates a holistic and adaptive approach to peacebuilding in the region To explore ECOWAS peace missions and their effects on West African nations, it is imperative to consider the nuanced dynamics shaping the regional peace and security landscape. By examining the objectives, achievements, challenges, and prospects of ECOWAS peacekeeping efforts. This article aims to unravel ECOWAS peace missions, tracing their origins, assessing their impact, and envisioning their role in shaping the future of West Africa. Through rigorous analysis, illuminating case studies, and thought-provoking discourse, elucidating the enduring legacy of ECOWAS as a vanguard of peace and stability in the heart of Africa.
Methodology
This research is based on the principles of analysis and synthesis, reliability and objectivity. The methodological basis of the article is the systemic approach, which is grounded on the consideration of the object as a holistic set of interrelated elements. The authors used the comparative method to research the ECOWAS peacekeeping missions, identifying their peculiarities, challenges and problems, and the problem-chronological method in analyzing the formation of mechanisms and instruments of ECOWAS for peacekeeping missions in West Africa. Both Russian and foreign academic literature, as well as scientific articles from international peer-reviewed journals specializing in international relations, were analyzed in the research. When writing the article, Google Scholar data on such keywords as 'ECOWAS', 'West Africa', and 'ECOWAS peacekeeping missions' were used in the process of searching for literature and sources on the research topic. The collected material was scientifically summarized and critically reviewed in order to build a logical argumentation in the article and to achieve the research aim.
Map 1. West Africa with ECOWAS member states
Source: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41371-022-00688-8 (accessed: 28.06.2024).
Literature review
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) stands as a testament to the collective aspirations of 15 different nations bound by geography, history, and a shared vision for regional integration and development. ECOWAS represents a pioneering effort to foster cooperation, solidarity, and progress across West Africa, transcending borders in
pursuit of common goals J12!. At the core of ECOWAS' mandate lies a steadfast commitment to promoting peace, stability, and security within the region. Recognizing the intrinsic link between peace and prosperity, ECOWAS has embraced peacekeeping as a fundamental pillar of its mission, leveraging diplomatic, political, and military means to address the
myriad challenges confronting West African nations t13!. Central to ECOWAS' approach to peacekeeping is the belief in regional ownership and collective responsibility. Rather than relying solely on external actors or international organizations, ECOWAS has championed homegrown solutions to regional conflicts, harnessing the expertise, resources, and political will of member states to drive peace initiatives forward --14!.
One of the most notable manifestations of ECOWAS' commitment to peacekeeping is the establishment of the Mechanism for Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping, and Security. Adopted in 1999, this institutional framework provides the blueprint for ECOWAS' engagement in conflict prevention, mediation, and peacekeeping operations, empowering the organization to respond swiftly and decisively to emerging
crises J15!. Moreover, ECOWAS has demonstrated a remarkable capacity for innovation and adaptability in the realm of peacekeeping. From the pioneering deployment of the ECOWAS Ceasefire Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) in Liberia in 1990 to the more recent interventions in Mali, Guinea-Bissau, and the Gambia, ECOWAS has continuously refined its peacekeeping strategies to meet evolving security threats and challenges, which raised the question of
ECOWAS subjectivity as regional organization-16!. Key to the success of ECOWAS peacekeeping missions is the principle of African solutions to African problems, underpinned by the organization's deep understanding of the socio-political dynamics and cultural nuances of the region --17!. By harnessing regional expertise, local knowledge, and international partnerships, ECOWAS has been able to facilitate dialogue, foster trust, and
build consensus among conflicting parties, laying the groundwork for sustainable peace and reconciliation
By promoting peace and security within West Africa, ECOWAS not only safeguards the lives and livelihoods of millions but also creates the conditions for inclusive development, democratic governance, and the realization of the region's full potential --19-.
History of ECOWAS involvement in peace missions in West Africa
Since its inception in 1975, ECOWAS has been at the forefront of efforts to address conflicts and promote peace in West African nations. The history of ECOWAS involvement in peace missions in West Africa is the organization's commitment to fostering stability and security
across the region J20!. A brief overview of ECOWAS' involvement in peace missions includes:
Early Years and the Emergence of ECOMOG :In the late 1980s and early 1990s, West Africa was plagued by a series of conflicts, including the civil wars in Liberia and Sierra Leone. In response to these crises, ECOWAS took bold steps to establish the ECOWAS
Ceasefire Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) in 1990-21-. ECOMOG was the first-ever peacekeeping force deployed by ECOWAS, consisting of troops contributed by member states. Its primary objective was to monitor ceasefires, protect civilians, and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid in conflict-affected areas.
Liberia (1990-1997): ECOMOG's first major deployment was in Liberia, where a brutal civil war had erupted -22-. ECOMOG intervened to halt the violence and restore stability, playing a crucial role in facilitating peace negotiations and overseeing the disarmament process. Despite facing significant challenges and casualties, ECOMOG's intervention in Liberia is widely regarded as a success, paving the way for the eventual end of the civil war and the establishment of democratic governance -23-.
Sierra Leone (1997-2000): Following the success in Liberia, ECOMOG turned its attention to Sierra Leone, where a rebel insurgency threatened to destabilize the country. ECOMOG forces were deployed to support the government and combat rebel groups. ECOMOG's intervention in Sierra Leone helped to stabilize the country, protect civilians, and create conditions for the disarmament and reintegration of former combatants. It also facilitated the implementation of peace agreements that paved the way for long-term peace and development.
Later Peace Missions and Institutionalization of Peacekeeping: In the years that followed, ECOWAS continued to deploy peace missions in response to crises in various West
African nations, including Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, and Mali-24!. The Mechanism for Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping, and Security, established in
1999, provided a legal framework for ECOWAS' engagement in peacekeeping activities-25-. This mechanism institutionalized ECOWAS' role as a regional peacekeeper and enhanced its capacity to respond to conflicts effectively.
Recent Peacekeeping Efforts: In more recent years, ECOWAS has remained actively involved in peacekeeping efforts across the region. From supporting political transitions in the Gambia to addressing security challenges in Mali and the Sahel, ECOWAS has continued to demonstrate its commitment to peace and stability in West Africa. ECOWAS' involvement in peace missions in West Africa has been characterized by a proactive and multifaceted approach to addressing conflicts and promoting peace. From its pioneering efforts in Liberia and Sierra Leone to its ongoing peacekeeping activities today, ECOWAS has emerged as a
key actor in the region's quest for stability, security, and development.
Objectives of ECOWAS peace missions
ECOWAS peace missions represent a cornerstone of the organization's commitment to promoting peace, stability, and security across the West African region Grounded in the principles of collective security and regional integration, these missions are guided by clear objectives and mandates aimed at addressing the root causes of conflicts, protecting civilians, and facilitating the restoration of peace. Below are detailed explanations of the objectives behind ECOWAS peace missions and the specific mandates given to ECOWAS
peacekeeping forces [27!. One of the primary objectives of ECOWAS peace missions is to prevent the outbreak, escalation, or recurrence of conflicts within member states. By monitoring political developments, facilitating dialogue among conflicting parties, and addressing underlying grievances, ECOWAS aims to proactively mitigate the risk of violence
and instability J28!. ECOWAS peace missions also seek to resolve ongoing conflicts through peaceful means, such as mediation, negotiation, and dialogue.
By fostering trust, building consensus, and facilitating peace agreements, ECOWAS endeavors to achieve sustainable solutions to complex and entrenched disputes. Protecting civilians from violence, human rights abuses, and humanitarian crises is a paramount objective of ECOWAS peace missions. This includes providing physical protection, ensuring access to humanitarian aid, and promoting respect for international humanitarian law and human rights principles as well as support and strengthen democratic governance institutions within member states. This may involve monitoring elections, promoting good governance practices, and building the capacity of national institutions to uphold the rule of law and respect for human rights.
In post-conflict settings, ECOWAS peace missions work to facilitate the disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) of former combatants into civilian life. This process is essential for consolidating peace, preventing the resurgence of violence, and promoting long-term stability.
Specific mandates given to ECOWAS peacekeeping forces
The deployment of ECOWAS peacekeeping forces is typically authorized by the ECOWAS Authority, the highest decision-making body of the organization. This authorization provides
the legal and political basis for ECOWAS intervention in conflict-affected areas-29!. ECOWAS peacekeeping forces are mandated to protect civilians from imminent threats of violence, including attacks by armed groups, human rights abuses, and violations of international humanitarian law. This mandate may involve the use of force, as necessary and proportionate, to ensure the safety and security of civilians. In cases where peace agreements have been negotiated between conflicting parties, ECOWAS peacekeeping forces are tasked with implementing key provisions of these agreements. This may include overseeing ceasefire arrangements, monitoring compliance with peace agreements, and
supporting the implementation of DDR programs--30!. ECOWAS peacekeeping forces may also be mandated to support the delivery of humanitarian assistance to conflict-affected populations. This includes facilitating the access of humanitarian actors to affected areas, ensuring the protection of humanitarian personnel and assets, and coordinating humanitarian response efforts. In addition to their immediate peacekeeping tasks, ECOWAS peacekeeping forces may be tasked with supporting the capacity building and institution strengthening efforts of national authorities. This may include providing training and
technical assistance to security forces, judicial institutions, and other relevant stakeholders
to enhance their ability to maintain peace and security The specific mandates given to ECOWAS peacekeeping forces reflect these objectives and empower them to take decisive action to restore peace and stability in conflict-affected areas across West Africa.
ECOWAS peace missions analysis
ECOWAS has been involved in several notable peace missions across West African nations, including Liberia, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast and Guinea-Bissau. These missions serve as compelling case studies that highlight both the successes achieved and the challenges confronted by ECOWAS in its efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.
Liberia (1990-1997): The civil war in Liberia, which erupted in 1989, resulted in widespread violence, displacement, and humanitarian suffering. ECOWAS responded by deploying the ECOWAS Ceasefire Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) in 1990 to intervene in the conflict. ECOMOG's intervention played a pivotal role in halting the violence, facilitating peace negotiations, and overseeing the disarmament process. The mission helped to restore stability, protect civilians, and create conditions for the establishment of democratic governance in Liberia. ECOMOG faced significant challenges, including the lack of adequate resources, logistical constraints, and resistance from warring factions. The mission also encountered difficulties in coordinating with other international actors and sustaining long-term peacebuilding efforts.
Sierra Leone (1997-2000): Sierra Leone was gripped by a brutal civil war characterized by atrocities committed by rebel groups, including the Revolutionary United Front. In 1997, ECOWAS deployed ECOMOG forces to support the government and restore peaceECOMOG's intervention contributed to stabilizing Sierra Leone, protecting civilians, and facilitating the implementation of peace agreements. The mission played a crucial role in disarming combatants, reintegrating former fighters into society, and paving the way for democratic elections. ECOMOG faced challenges like those encountered in Liberia, including limited resources, logistical constraints, and resistance from armed groups. The mission also grappled with allegations of human rights abuses and misconduct among its troops.
Ivory Coast (2002-2010): The political crisis in Ivory Coast, triggered by a disputed presidential election in 2002, led to a protracted period of conflict and instability. ECOWAS intervened by deploying peacekeeping forces to monitor ceasefires and support peace negotiations. ECOWAS peacekeeping forces played a crucial role in preventing the escalation of violence, protecting civilians, and facilitating the implementation of peace agreements. The mission contributed to the restoration of stability and the consolidation of democratic governance in Ivory Coast. The peacekeeping mission in Ivory Coast has faced challenges related to the complex political dynamics, including resistance from various factions, spoilers of peace, and delays in the disarmament process. The mission also struggled with resource constraints and logistical difficulties.
Guinea-Bissau (2012): Guinea-Bissau has experienced chronic political instability, coups, and military interventions since gaining independence from Portugal. ECOWAS has been actively involved in efforts to restore constitutional order, uphold democratic governance, and support peacebuilding initiatives in the country. ECOWAS deployed a peacekeeping force, known as the ECOWAS Mission in Guinea-Bissau (ECOMIB), to stabilize the situation and create conditions for a return to civilian rule. ECOMIB played a crucial role in deterring further violence, facilitating political negotiations, and supporting the transition process in Guinea-Bissau [32i.
Burkina Faso (2014): In Burkina Faso, ECOWAS has been engaged in efforts to address political instability and security challenges, particularly in the wake of the 2014 popular uprising that led to the ousting of long-time President Blaise Compaore. Following the political transition and subsequent democratic elections, Burkina Faso has faced increased insecurity due to the rise of armed extremist groups and intercommunal violence.ECOWAS has supported Burkina Faso's efforts to strengthen its security forces, combat terrorism, and promote inclusive dialogue and reconciliation. The organization has provided technical assistance, training, and logistical support to build the capacity of Burkina Faso's security institutions and enhance their ability to address security threats effectively.
The Gambia (2017): In the Gambia, ECOWAS played a pivotal role in resolving the political crisis that arose following the disputed presidential elections in December 2016. Former President Yahya Jammeh initially refused to step down after losing the election, leading to a tense standoff and fears of a potential outbreak of violence.ECOWAS, under the leadership of neighboring countries such as Senegal and Nigeria, spearheaded diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis peacefully. The organization deployed a military intervention force to Gambia, known as the ECOWAS Mission in the Gambia (ECOMIG), to pressure Jammeh to relinquish power and facilitate the inauguration of President Adama Barrow, who had won the election. ECOWAS's intervention in the Gambia helped avert a potential humanitarian crisis and paved the way for a peaceful transfer of power, restoring democratic governance and political stability in the country J33!.
The case studies of ECOWAS peace missions in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, in Burkina Faso, Guinea-Bissau, and the Gambia highlight the organization's efforts to address complex conflicts and promote peace and stability in West Africa. While these missions achieved notable successes in restoring peace and protecting civilians, they also faced significant challenges that emphasizes the need for sustained international support, coordination, and capacity building in peacekeeping efforts.
Challenges and problems of ECOWAS peace missions
Despite its significant contributions to peacekeeping and conflict resolution in West Africa, ECOWAS peace missions face a range of challenges and criticisms that impact their effectiveness and outcomes. These challenges come from various factors, including the complex nature of conflicts, resource constraints, institutional limitations, and external pressures. Some of the challenges include the following:
Conflict Complexity and Dynamics. One of the primary challenges facing ECOWAS peace missions is the inherent complexity of conflicts in the region. Many conflicts are deeply rooted in historical grievances, ethnic tensions, political rivalries, and socioeconomic disparities, making them resistant to quick and easy solutions. The involvement of multiple actors, including armed groups, criminal networks, and external powers, further complicates efforts to address conflicts and implement peace agreements. ECOWAS peace missions must navigate intricate power dynamics and competing interests to achieve sustainable
peace [34!.
Resource Constraints and Capacity Limitations. ECO WAS peace missions often operate in resource-constrained environments, with limited funding, logistical support, and personnel. This poses significant challenges in terms of mobilizing sufficient resources for peacekeeping operations, sustaining deployments over the long term, and addressing critical needs on the ground. Additionally, ECOWAS member states vary in their capacities and capabilities to contribute troops, equipment, and financial resources to peace missions.
Disparities in military capabilities and logistical support among contributing countries can hamper the effectiveness and cohesion of peacekeeping forces.
Coordination and Cooperation among ECOWAS member states, regional organizations, and international partners are essential for the success of peace missions. However, challenges related to communication, decision-making processes, and political dynamics can impede effective coordination and collaboration. Differences in national interests, competing priorities, and divergent approaches to conflict resolution may also hinder consensus-building and unity of action among ECOWAS member states, undermining the coherence and effectiveness of peace efforts.
Criticisms of Effectiveness and Limitations. ECOWAS peace missions have faced criticisms regarding their effectiveness in achieving sustainable peace and addressing underlying root causes of conflicts. Some observers argue that ECOWAS interventions have been short-term and focused primarily on managing crises rather than addressing structural issues. Critics have also raised concerns about human rights abuses, misconduct, and lack of accountability among peacekeeping forces deployed by ECOWAS. Allegations of misconduct undermine the credibility and legitimacy of peace missions, eroding public trust and confidence in ECOWAS' ability to uphold peace and security.
Conclusion
The effects of ECOWAS peace missions on West African nations have been profound, shaping the roadmap to peace, stability, and development across the region. Through its concerted efforts in peacekeeping, conflict resolution, and institution-building, ECOWAS has made significant contributions to mitigating conflicts, protecting civilians, and fostering reconciliation in diverse contexts. Key findings reveal that ECOWAS peace missions have played a pivotal role in resolving conflicts, preventing the escalation of violence, and facilitating the implementation of peace agreements in countries such as Liberia, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, in Burkina Faso, Guinea-Bissau, and the Gambia. These missions have helped to restore stability, promote democratic governance, and create conditions for sustainable peace, laying the groundwork for progress and prosperity in conflict-affected societies. Moreover, the importance of regional cooperation in promoting peace and stability in West Africa cannot be overstated. ECOWAS serves as a crucial platform for dialogue, collaboration, and collective action among member states, enabling them to address shared security challenges and common threats effectively. By pooling resources, expertise, and political will, ECOWAS enhances the capacity of member states to respond to conflicts, manage crises, and build resilient societies. Looking ahead, it is imperative for ECOWAS to continue strengthening its institutional capacity, enhancing coordination and cooperation, and adapting to evolving security threats to consolidate the gains achieved through peace missions. By investing in conflict prevention, addressing root causes of conflict, and promoting regional integration, ECOWAS can further contribute to building a peaceful, stable, and prosperous West Africa for generations to come.
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20. Olabimpe O., Matthew A. Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in the Maintenance of Peace and Security of West-African Countries: Prospects and Challenges// American Journal of Multidisciplinary Research & Development. 2022. Vol. 4, № 9. Pp. 3039. URL: https://www.ajmrd.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/D493039.pdf (дата обращения: 21.05.2024).
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Результаты процедуры рецензирования статьи
В связи с политикой двойного слепого рецензирования личность рецензента не раскрывается.
Со списком рецензентов издательства можно ознакомиться здесь.
О кардинальных переменах, которые в настоящее время происходят на международной арене, говорят различные аналитики и наблюдатели. И действительно, на наших глазах происходит поэтапная трансформация монополярного мира во главе с США в мир многополярный, в котором наряду с Вашингтоном ведущие позиции будут занимать целый ряд акторов, среди которых Пекин, Москва, Нью-Дели, Тегеран. Министр иностранных дел РФ Сергей Лавров справедливо отмечает: «Сегодня всем необходимо признать необратимость формирования более справедливой полицентричной системы мироустройства. В общих интересах сделать так, чтобы многополярная архитектура опиралась не на "баланс страха", а на баланс интересов, на общепризнанные нормы международного права, на взаимоуважительный диалог различных цивилизаций, религий и культур». В этой связи вызывает важность изучение различных региональных игроков, в том числе на Африканском континенте, вновь находящемся в русле антиколониальной борьбы.
Указанные обстоятельства определяют актуальность представленной на рецензирование статьи, предметом которой являются миротворческие миссии ЭКОВАС.Автор ставит своими задачами рассмотреть роль ЭКОВАС в поддержании мира, показать историю участия ЭКОВАС в миротворческих миссиях в Западной Африке, а также определить ее эффективность.
Работа основана на принципах анализа и синтеза, достоверности, объективности, методологической базой исследования выступает системный подход, в основе которого находится рассмотрение объекта как целостного комплекса взаимосвязанных элементов. Автор использует также сравнительный метод.
Научная новизна статьи заключается в самой постановке темы: автор стремится охарактеризовать «непреходящее наследие ЭКОВАС как авангарда мира и стабильности в самом сердце Африки».
Рассматривая библиографический список статьи, как позитивный момент следует отметить его масштабность и разносторонность: всего список литературы включает в себя свыше 30 различных источников и исследований. Несомненным достоинством рецензируемой статьи является привлечение зарубежной англоязычной литературы, что определяется самой постановкой темы. Из привлекаемых автором трудов отметим на работы И.Р. Ютяевой, Д. Траоре, Б. Афолаби, Э. Бирикоранга и других специалистов, в центре внимания которых находятся различные аспекты изучения миротворческой деятельности ЭКОВАС. Заметим, что библиография обладает важностью как с научной, так и с просветительской точки зрения: после прочтения текста читатели могут обратиться к другим материалам по ее теме. В целом, на наш взгляд, комплексное использование различных источников и исследований способствовало решению стоящих пе ре д а в тором з а да ч.
Стиль написания статьи можно отнести к научному, вместе с тем доступному для понимания не только специалистам, но и широкой читательской аудитории, всем, кто интересуется как Экономическим сообществом западноафриканских государств, в целом, так и миротворческой деятельностью ЭКОВАС, в частности. Аппеляция к оппонентам представлена на уровне собранной информации, полученной автором в ходе работы над темой статьи.
Структура работы отличается определенной логичностью и последовательностью, в ней можно выделить введение, основную часть, заключение. В начале автор определяет
актуальность темы, показывает, что «содействуя миру и безопасности в Западной Африке, ЭКОВАС не только защищает жизни и средства к существованию миллионов людей, но и создает условия для инклюзивного развития, демократического управления и реализации полного потенциала региона». На примере миротворческих миссий ЭКОВАС в Либерии, Сьерра-Леоне, Кот-д'Ивуаре, Буркина-Фасо, Гвинее-Бисау и Гамбии автор показывает «усилия организации по решению сложных конфликтов и содействию миру и стабильности в Западной Африке». Автор не обходит стороной и критику: подчеркивается, что «вмешательства ЭКОВАС были краткосрочными и были сосредоточены в первую очередь на управлении кризисами, а не на решении структурных проблем».
Главным выводом статьи является то, что ЭКОВАС «служит важнейшей платформой для диалога, сотрудничества и коллективных действий между государствами-членами, позволяя им эффективно решать общие проблемы безопасности и общие угрозы». Представленная на рецензирование статья посвящена актуальной теме, написана на английском языке, снабжена картой, вызовет читательский интерес, а ее материалы могут быть использованы как в учебных курсах, так и в рамках дипломатических стратегий России на Африканском континенте.
В целом, на наш взгляд, статья может быть рекомендована для публикации в журнале «Международные отношения».
Результаты процедуры повторного рецензирования статьи
В связи с политикой двойного слепого рецензирования личность рецензента не раскрывается.
Со списком рецензентов издательства можно ознакомиться здесь.
Данная статья посвящена комплексному исследованию роли и деятельности ЭКОВАС как региональной международной организации (союза) по усилению экономики ее стран-членов, а также предотвращению негативных последствий от ключевых вызовов и проблем гуманитарного характера в Западной Африке. Во введении приводится обстоятельный обзор значения и истории возникновения организации, ее институциональная динамика, а также обозначаются ключевые вызовы с которыми данный союз сталкивается сегодня. Ключевой целевой установкой исследования при этом является раскрытие сути миротворческих миссий ЭКОВАС, прослеживание их истоков, оценка их влияния и определение их роли в формировании будущего Западной Африки. Таким образом, фокусом статьи выступает миротворческая деятельность региональной международной организации.
Статья имеет достаточно сильную и подробную структуру, характерную для научной традиции IMRAD. Методология исследования опирается на системный подход и сравнительные методы, источниковую базу составляют публикации на английском и русском языках. Список литературы представлен значительным количеством (более 30) зарубежных источников, среди которых аналитические статьи и публикации, обзоры, а также фундаментальные работы по истории Западной Африки. Вместе с тем, один из источников не транслитерирован и приведен на русском языке - 27 источник требует перевода на английский язык.
Несмотря на то, что в статье системным образом описаны миротворческие инициативы ЭКОВАС, отсутствует сформированное для читателей понимание ее роли в общей системе гуманитарного сотрудничества на африканском континенте и во взаимодействии с другими международными организациями - этот аспект исследования автору следовало бы усилить. Тем не менее, не вызывает сомнений, что данная статья вызовет большой интерес в среде читательской аудитории журнала "Международные отношения". Она
написана на хорошем научном уровне и соответствует всем требованиям, предъявляемым к публикациям в изданиях Nota Bene.
This article is devoted to a comprehensive study of the role and activities of ECOWAS as a regional international organization (union) to strengthen the economies of its member countries, as well as to prevent negative consequences of key challenges and humanitarian problems in West Africa. The introduction provides a thorough overview of the significance and history of the organization, its institutional dynamics, and also identifies the key challenges that this union faces today. The key objective of the study is to reveal the essence of ECOWAS peacekeeping missions, tracing their origins, assessing their impact and determining their role in shaping the future of West Africa. Thus, the focus of the article is the peacekeeping activities of the regional international organization. The article has a fairly strong and detailed structure, characteristic of the scientific tradition of IMRAD. The research methodology is based on a systems approach and comparative methods, the source base consists of publications in English and Russian. The list of references is represented by a significant number (more than 30) of foreign sources, including analytical articles and publications, reviews, as well as fundamental works on the history of West Africa. At the same time, one of the sources is not transliterated and is given in Russian -source 27 requires translation into English. Despite the fact that the article systematically describes the peacekeeping initiatives of ECOWAS, there is no formed understanding for readers of its role in the general system of humanitarian cooperation on the African continent and in interaction with other international organizations - the author should strengthen this aspect of the study. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that this article will generate great interest among the readership of the journal "International Relations". It is written at a good scientific level and meets all the requirements for publications in Nota Bene editions.
