Small Arms and Light Weapons Proliferation and its Implication for West African Regional Security

Abstract

One of the fundamental obstacles to peace and security in West Africa is the presence and continued proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW). The proliferation of small arms constitutes a major source of destruction to lives and property, exacerbating inter-communal tensions leading to full-fledge conflicts. Most of the West African borders are porous, thus, making it easy for entry and exit of arms, drugs, as well as human trafficking. More so, the high level of corruption in most of these countries also compounded the security challenges especially faced by states and the regional efforts at large. This study examines the impact of small arms proliferation on the regional security. It also assesses the effort of the regional body in combating the menace of small arms. The study is based mainly on existing scholarly works both primary and secondary sources on SALW control.