Despite encouraging economic growth rates, the damaging effects of the global financial crisis continue to be deeply affect most West African populations. After a period of decline prompted by the global financial and economic recession, West African economies seem to improve. The subregional growth rate is expected to reach 4.7 per cent in 2010, against 4.4 per cent in 2009.

The benefits of the economic situation, however, are yet to trickle down to the majority of the population in the region. In this regard, it is important to support measures that would reduce the gap between rich and poor people and improve governance. Those are needed to achieve the Millennium Development Goals, strengthen social cohesion and consolidate peace.