This paper reviews the experience of two West African countries in terms of horizontal inequalities and conflict. It shows that in many respects Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire are similar - in economic structure, ethnic composition and horizontal inequalities. Both countries have severe socio-economic horizontal inequalities, between the North and the South. Yet Côte d'Ivoire experienced a major North-South civil war from 2002 -2007 while Ghana avoided any major national conflict. This paper reviews the reasons for this difference. It provides evidence showing that while the two countries had similar socio-economic inequalities, Ghana was consistently politically inclusive, and consciously respected different cultures and religions. Côte d’Ivoire also followed an inclusive policy until the death of Houphouët-Boigny but subsequently Northerners were excluded politically, and culturally. These political and cultural Horizontal Inequalities are argued to be the main factors behind the outbreak of violent conflict.