Military Coups d’état and their Impact on the West African Sub-region

A Case Study of Burkina Faso

Abstract

The African continent has experienced several coups d’état, particularly within the West Africa sub-region. This study investigated the consequences of coups d'état on the political and economic landscapes of Burkina Faso. It also identified intervention measures that could prevent or mitigate the impact of future coups in Burkina Faso and the West African sub-region. The study employed a qualitative research approach and a case study design. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis of interview responses were conducted to draw conclusions. The findings revealed that recent coups in Burkina Faso have had adverse effects on the political system and economic growth of the country, with possible spillover effects in the West African sub-region. The study recommended that Burkina Faso and other West African nations should deepen their integration into ECOWAS and AU agendas in order to take advantage of investment partnerships, diplomatic assistance and conflict resolution. It further recommended that West African countries should strengthen their early-warning systems and mediation platforms to detect signs of political unrest and prevent escalations.