       other (or both) states, in particular where there are substantial populations affected by transfers of territory. Promoting the exchange of information and coordinated adjudication procedures among ECOWAS Member States and with neighbouring countries in order to establish a nationality for persons whose nationality is in doubt. Creating a mechanism such as a regional ombudsman to serve as an interface between ECOWAS citizens and the ECOWAS Commission on nationality matters. Promoting the harmonisation of the nationality laws and practices of Member States in line with the recommendations in this report. Ensuring that initiatives to strengthen the implementation of the ECOWAS regime on free movement of persons, including the adoption of the biometric national ID card and abolition of the residence requirement for a residence permit for nationals of other ECOWAS states, take adequate account of the obligation to reduce statelessness. Taking steps to replace the Protocol Relating to the Definition of a Community Citizen with a new Protocol that creates (in coordination with the relevant African Union institutions) common standards for West African nationality laws that respect other rights endorsed by ECOWAS standards, including rights to non-discrimination, democratic participation, and due process of law; provides a role for ECOWAS in ensuring access to nationality; and ensures a common understanding of the rights of West African nationals as ECOWAS citizens. Conducting research and publishing reports on statelessness in the region to inform legislative and policy reforms to be implemented by Member States. Promoting collaboration with other regional organisations on these issues, including UEMOA and the Mano River Union. 7.7. The role of international partners The different UN agencies and other international partners of West African states should strengthen coordination and collaboration around the right to a nationality both at international and West African levels and among national offices, in particular by:    Ensuring that different interventions to address lack of documentation are coordinated both with governments and with each other, based on gaps identified through a common baseline assessments and analysis. Adopting regulations or guidelines on statelessness and nationality law as it interacts with other relevant systems, including border management, identity documentation and birth registration. Supporting the implementation of the recommendations in this report. 99