By Joy Omagha Idam
The ECOWAS Parliament has convened a high-level Joint Committee Meeting in Freetown, Sierra Leone, aimed at advancing stronger protections for vulnerable children across West Africa, particularly those living in street situations.
The five-day meeting brings together key parliamentary committees to address rising concerns over child exploitation, abuse, and neglect in the region.
Discussions are focused on developing practical legislative and oversight strategies to ensure that existing child protection frameworks are effectively implemented by Member States.
Despite established regional policies, including the ECOWAS Child Policy and Strategic Plan of Action (2019–2030), many children across West Africa continue to face harsh realities driven by poverty, displacement, and rapid urbanisation.
These conditions have increased their exposure to exploitation, hazardous labour, violence, and limited access to essential social services.
Participants at the meeting are examining the need for stronger coordination, improved data systems, and harmonised legal frameworks across borders to close existing protection gaps.
The gathering also highlights Sierra Leone’s recent reforms, particularly its updated Child Rights Act, as a model for strengthening national and regional responses.
Through policy briefings, stakeholder engagements, and field visits, lawmakers are expected to develop actionable recommendations to improve child protection systems, enhance parliamentary oversight, and promote collaboration among Member States.
The outcome of the meeting will shape future legislative actions and regional strategies, with the goal of ensuring safer environments and better opportunities for vulnerable children across the ECOWAS region.