2. PARTICIPATION

Of the 14 countries invited 4 (Togo, Sierra Leone, Gabon, Guinea) were unable to attend the seminar for diverse reasons. The absence of Togo (like that of Liberia which could not even be invited) is explained by the exceptional political context prevailing at present in this country. Sierra Leone, Guinea and Gabon were unable to attend because of reasons pertaining to the invitation itself or for logistic problems. Considering the importance of migration in these countries, particular care will be given to inform them of the results (see appendix 1 for the list of participants).

It is also regrettable that the ECOWAS, with whom informal contact had been made as of last July, did not reply to the invitation and other official correspondence sent about it. The seminar did, however, benefit by the participation of Mrs. King, FAO consultant on mission for this organization. The seminar organizers expressed the hope that this participation would facilitate future involvement of this regional organization in the follow-up of the seminar's recommendations.