Regional organizations and the resolution of internal conflict: The ECOWAS intervention in Liberia

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Abstract
For over two years, the ECOWAS intervention in Liberia went through many difficult phases. Finally, on 24 July 1993, ECOWAS was able to negotiate the Cotonou Agreement, with the assistance of the UN and the OAU. By this agreement, the warring factions agreed to a ceasefire, the disarmament and encampment of their forces, the establishment of a transitional government in which they will participate, and free elections within a seven month period leading to the establishment of democratic government in Liberia. In spite of some sporadic violations, the ceasefire seems to be holding, and the transitional government is on the way to becoming operational. This article examines the roots of the Liberian conflict and evaluates the performance of the ECOWAS intervention. It suggests that there are lessons to be learned about the potential role of regional organizations in dealing with intrastate conflicts.

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