One major problem encountered by ECOWAS is_______?

Analyze the question: The question asks for a major problem faced by ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States), which was founded in 1975 to promote economic integration among West African countries.

Explain the concept: Regional economic bodies like ECOWAS face challenges that come from having many sovereign states with different political and economic goals. Common problems include:

• Differing national interests and policies
• Political instability and coups
• Overlapping memberships in other groupings
• Poor infrastructure and trade barriers
• Language differences (English, French, Portuguese)

Evaluate the options:

• A. Conflict of interest among members: Member states often put their own national interests ahead of community goals. This shows up in border closures, protectionist policies, non-implementation of agreed protocols, and political disputes. It is widely recognised as the main obstacle to ECOWAS integration.
• B. Increasing population: This is a national development concern, not a structural problem specific to ECOWAS as an organisation.
• C. Weakness in the trade relationship: Intra-regional trade is low, but this is a result of deeper problems such as conflicting interests and policies, not the root problem itself.
• D. Language barrier: This is a real challenge because of the Anglophone, Francophone and Lusophone divide. However, it is generally considered secondary, since ECOWAS works through translation and official languages.

Conclusion: The best answer is A. Conflict of interest among members.

Exam tip: For questions on problems of regional organisations (ECOWAS, OPEC, AU), think "political and national interest conflicts" first. Member states guard their sovereignty and priorities, which slows down integration. Language and trade weaknesses are usually symptoms or secondary issues.