Human security in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region is under threat from various challenges such as terrorism, violent extremism, conflict, transnational organized crime, climate change, epidemics, poverty, inequality, and unconstitutional changes of government. These issues were highlighted by the Vice-President of the ECOWAS Commission, Ms. Damtien Larbli Tchintchibidja, during the opening of the 2025 technical session of the Joint Analysis and Response Planning Working Group (JARP-WG) in Zuma Rock, Nigeria on 28 April 2025.
The establishment of the JARP-WG is seen as a crucial step in addressing these challenges. The Working Group aims to enhance the capacity for joint analysis and response planning to threats to human security, promote collaboration between ECOWAS Member States and departments, and establish standardized procedures. Dr. Onyinye Onwuka, Acting Director of Early Warning at the ECOWAS Commission, emphasized the importance of consolidating the operationalization of the Working Group and the need for participants to contribute to the analytical process.
Participants at the three-day session include directors of National Early Warning and Response Centres of ECOWAS member States, representatives of ECOWAS Commission departments, and the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP). The focus is on gathering analytical contributions and recommendations for the human security situation in ECOWAS in 2024 and setting objectives for response actions in 2025.
The JARP-WG, established in May 2022 and officially launched in July 2022, aims to improve the region’s capacity to prevent, mitigate, and respond to human security challenges. Structured around five thematic areas of ECOWAS early warning – security, crime, health, environment, and governance – the Working Group provides a platform for collaboration and joint analysis.
During the session, participants received presentations on ‘Introduction to ECOWARN 2.0 and its role in detecting human security challenges’ and ‘Introduction to JARP tools to strengthen collaboration and synergies in early warning and response’. These insights were shared by experts from the Early Warning Department of the ECOWAS Commission, emphasizing the importance of utilizing tools and systems for effective response.
The outcome of the JARP-WG meeting is expected to provide a more comprehensive analysis and new perspectives on addressing threats to human security in the ECOWAS region. By fostering collaboration and synergy among stakeholders, the Working Group aims to enhance the region’s ability to anticipate and resolve human security challenges.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
