Assessment of the Ecowas Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence and Establishment (The Case of Elubo Border).
Date
2018-07
Authors
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Publisher
University of Ghana
Abstract
The main aim of the study was to assess the implementation of the ECOWAS Protocol on
free movement of persons, rights of residence and establishment. For this, the mixed method
of data collection was used which formed the basic design for the study. Using the convenient
method, 84 travellers and 30 officers were sampled to respond to structured questionnaires
and semi interview questions respectively. Data was analysed using quantitative and
qualitative methods and the results triangulated.
Results of the study indicated that most respondents do not have any knowledge of the
ECOWAS Protocol whereas a few of the respondents affirmed to their having knowledge in
the Protocol. Those who are familiar with the Protocol indicated that it is useful and that it is
working for its purpose. Similarly, most respondents do not know how the implementation of
the ECOWAS Protocol is done.
According to officers at the borders, one basic challenge facing them as border officials is the
issue of language barrier. The sub-region is made up of Anglophone and Francophone
countries. Ghanaian officials therefore find it difficult to communicate with travellers from
other countries other than English speaking countries. Likewise, other officials like those at
La Cote D’Ivoire have problems communicating with travellers from English speaking
countries.
It was recommended that Officers that will be put at the borders should be those that could
speak other foreign languages especially French and English. Those that will be on duty
should always have at least one person among them who could speak such languages. This
will facilitate effective communication. Authorities of member states should endeavour to
have a common identification document and even common ECOWAS currency which will
facilitate bilateral trade, thereby helping the Protocol achieve its objective of regional
integration and trade.
Description
Thesis (MA)
Keywords
triangulated, ECOWAS Protocol, Implementation, Anglophone, Francophone