A relational approach to cross-border co-operation in West Africa

Chapter 2 – a relational approach to cross-border co-operation in West Africa – demonstrates the importance of cross-border co-operation and public policy for regional integration in West Africa and the different forms each of the aforementioned concepts can take. It examines equally the three dimensions of cross-border co-operation and public policy, identifying current developments, potential areas for increased activity and political visions for its future progression. Gaps are then identified between these dimensions, suggesting the need for more relational approaches to cross-border co-operation that offer more tailored policies. The chapter then concludes with a brief description of institutional models that have shown to be effective in aiding closer regional integration.