In West Africa, IFRC Disaster Law works with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The ECOWAS Plan of Action of the Humanitarian Policy (2018-2022) includes, as a strategic objective, 'ensuring appropriate legal and policy frameworks for preventing and responding to emergencies'. This objective is closely aligned with IFRC Disaster Law's work.
ECOWAS developed a draft Disaster Management Handbook intended to guide Member States in reviewing and strengthening their disaster risk management frameworks, building on commitments under the ECOWAS Humanitarian Policy. IFRC Disaster Law continues to engage with National Societies and regional partners to support awareness and use of such guidance in strengthening national legal frameworks
At the country level, IFRC Disaster Law has conducted research and activities in several West African countries including Guinea, Liberia, Niger, Nigeria, Togo and Sierra Leone.
