Treaty of Lagos

Definition

The Treaty of Lagos is a significant agreement signed in 1975 that established the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This treaty aimed to promote economic integration and cooperation among member states, facilitating trade and collaboration in various sectors to enhance regional development and stability.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Treaty of Lagos was signed on May 28, 1975, during a summit of heads of state in Lagos, Nigeria.
2. ECOWAS, formed by the Treaty of Lagos, initially had 15 member countries from West Africa, with the goal of achieving collective self-sufficiency and regional economic growth.
3. The treaty established a framework for policy coordination in areas such as trade, agriculture, transportation, and telecommunications among member states.
4. Over the years, the Treaty of Lagos has led to initiatives like the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS), which promotes the free movement of goods among member countries.
5. The Treaty also has provisions for political and security cooperation, addressing conflicts in the region to ensure peace and stability in West Africa.

Review Questions

• How did the Treaty of Lagos lay the groundwork for regional economic integration in West Africa?
  • The Treaty of Lagos established ECOWAS as a formal structure for promoting economic integration among West African nations. It created a framework for member states to collaborate on trade policies, agricultural development, and infrastructure projects. This cooperation aimed not only to enhance economic ties but also to improve political relations and mutual support among the countries involved, ultimately paving the way for greater regional unity.
• Discuss the impact of the Treaty of Lagos on trade relations between member states within ECOWAS.
  • The Treaty of Lagos significantly transformed trade relations within ECOWAS by promoting policies that encouraged intra-regional trade. Through initiatives like the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS), tariffs were reduced or eliminated, facilitating easier access to markets for member states. This enhancement in trade relations has led to increased economic activities, stronger partnerships, and a shared commitment to collective development among West African nations.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the Treaty of Lagos on political stability and economic growth in West Africa.
  • The Treaty of Lagos has had enduring effects on both political stability and economic growth in West Africa. By fostering collaboration through ECOWAS, it has enabled member states to collectively address conflicts and promote peacekeeping missions in times of crisis. Economically, the treaty has catalyzed significant growth through increased trade and investment opportunities among members. However, challenges remain, such as differing national interests and external pressures that continue to test the cohesion and effectiveness of the treaty’s goals.

Related terms

ECOWAS: The Economic Community of West African States is a regional group of fifteen West African countries established to promote economic integration, cooperation, and political stability among its members.

Regional Integration: The process by which countries in a geographic region enhance their cooperation and coordination through agreements that facilitate trade, investment, and policy alignment.

Trade Liberalization: The removal or reduction of trade barriers, such as tariffs and quotas, to encourage free trade among countries, often promoted by regional agreements like the Treaty of Lagos.