From Functionalism To Regional Integration: A Critical Evaluation Of The Problems And Prospects Of ECOWAS

ABSTRACT

This Dissertation analyses the functionalist assumptions and evaluates then in the light of ECOWAS experience. An important retionale for this is to ascertain the degree to which a European based origin of functional ist theory despite the underdevelopment character of the ECOWAS sub-region makes functionalism as a theory of integration an attractive policy guide in the sub-regions developmental process.

An important proposition investigated in this dissertation is the contention that rather than under- mine the prospects for regional socio-economic development, functional Integration in West Africa, symbolized by ECOWAS, provides effective mechanism for fast socio- economic development in the sub-region.