The West African nation of Sierra Leone is currently grappling with political turmoil and an economic crisis in the aftermath of a failed coup attempt. As a member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Sierra Leone is not alone in its struggle. Should future security concerns arise, ECOWAS and its member countries are poised to intervene to maintain constitutional order.
The Factors Triggering Sierra Leone’s Unrest
Political instability ignited by the President’s re-election in June 2023 has been a major factor contributing to the unrest. The opposition party disputed the election results, alleging manipulation, which led to a boycotting of parliament until October 2023.
Another significant contributor has been economic instability. High living costs and severe poverty have played into the crisis. The president’s economic policies, viewed as exacerbating these issues, have sparked protests and calls for his resignation.
In addition, the government’s use of force in managing protests and prison riots, including the employment of live ammunition, has ignited further resentment.
Key Facts About Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone lies between Liberia and Guinea, with a coastline along the North Atlantic Ocean. It sits on the southwest coast of West Africa, with the capital city being Freetown. Languages spoken include English and Krio.
Geographically, Sierra Leone boasts the tallest peak in the region, Mount Bintumani, also known as Loma Mansa. It has a tropical climate and varied terrain that includes eastern mountain ranges, an upland plateau, wooded hill country, and a coastal belt of mangrove swamps.
Sierra Leone also plays a role in international initiatives, being one of the members of the International Solar Alliance. India was one of the initial contributors to the UN Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL), providing a strong 4000 troop military contingent.
Overview of Recent Upheavals in Africa
In recent times, Africa has witnessed several coups and crises: the Coup in Niger (2023), crises in Sudan (2023 and 2021), the Burkina Faso Coup (2022), and military Coups in Mali (2021, 2020).
Understanding the Role of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
Established in 1975 via the Lagos Treaty, ECOWAS is a regional intergovernmental organization that promotes economic cooperation and integration among West African nations. Based in Abuja, Nigeria, the community is made up of 15 member states: Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Senegal, and Togo.
ECOWAS aims for economic integration, free movement of people and goods, and regional cooperation across all sectors. It also seeks to establish a borderless region governed by democratic principles. Furthermore, it addresses security challenges through collaborative conflict resolution.
During the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2023, candidates were asked why Chad, Guinea, Mali, and Sudan had caught international attention in recent years. The common reason was that each of them had successful coups.
