The free movement of persons within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) remains a challenge, as efforts persist to address migration and mobility issues with a more human-centered approach in West Africa. In light of this, the ECOWAS Political Advisor in Togo, Jérôme Wagou, sensitises the public on the issue.

Speaking on the panel “Mobility and Ethics Today” during Day 2 of the 6th edition of the Forum Harmattan (Harmattan Forum), the ECOWAS Political Advisor in Togo, Jérôme Wagou, explained that ECOWAS has legal instruments guaranteeing free movement of persons without any obstacles. He added that his organisation is combating human trafficking. However, migrants are victims of abuse, unpaid labour, arbitrary detention, physical violence and fraud, Jérôme Wagou pointed out. 

Addressing concerns about migration in Africa, Jerome Wagou clearly stated that 70% of West African migration is intra-regional. Regarding extortion at the borders, the Political Advisor informs that travellers must have valid official travel documents and should not have to pay anything during border checks. “No money needs to be paid at the borders,” Jérôme Wagou stressed, adding that citizens without travel documents should be registered for future mobile court hearings.

Jérôme Wagou suggested that the fight against extortion must include awareness raising among travellers and law enforcement agencies, denunciation and legal action against those responsible for certain acts. For him, though freedom of movement remains a challenge, there is no reason for despair.

Challenges to free movement of persons and integration

The closure of the border between Benin and Niger negatively impacts the activities of the populations, emphasises Political Advisor Jérôme Wagou. This closure, he continues, forces people to use detour routes to travel from one country to another, which poses risks for the populations of both countries.

He notes that in 2005, ECOWAS implemented a policy to develop border regions, enabling exchanges between countries. The diversity of currencies in the ECOWAS space is also considered a factor that hinders the free movement of people, Jérôme Wagou acknowledged, adding that a common currency remains one of the priority goals of the subregional organisation.

Perspectives on humanising migration issues

Political Advisor Jérôme Wagou urges the countries of the subregion to strengthen transboundary mechanisms by activating the follow-up committees already established by ECOWAS. He also recommends investing in the vocational training of migrants and setting up information platforms to guarantee their rights andpromote their empowerment. For him, migration should not be seen as a threat but rather, as an opportunity for sustainable development.