Theory question 110
Economic IntegrationCommerce 2
Explain any five obstacles working against the achievement of the objectives of ECOWAS.
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Any five, explained: language differences (English, French, Portuguese); many different currencies and lack of a common payment system; political instability, coups and wars in member states; fear of domination by bigger members such as Nigeria and unequal benefits; loyalty to former colonial powers and membership of other groupings (e.g. CFA franc zone); poor transport and communication links; members produce similar primary goods, so little to trade with each other; failure to pay dues and lack of funds; non-implementation of protocols and border harassment; smuggling and poor customs co-operation.
Each point needs a short explanation of how it hinders ECOWAS.