Strengthening Africa's democracy in the face of future crisis

International Democracy Day has been observed globally, bringing attention to the principles and challenges facing democracy. Recent events in countries like Afghanistan, Guinea, and Mali have raised questions about the state of democracy in Africa. Aidan Eyakuze, Co-Chair of the Open Government Partnership Steering Committee, shared insights on the state of democracy on the continent and the way forward. Eyakuze highlighted concerns about backsliding in democratic progress, citing recent coups in Guinea and Mali as alarming examples. He emphasized the need for a renewed focus on promoting democratic values and ensuring accountability in African nations. Eyakuze expressed his assessment that democracy in Africa is facing significant challenges, with a noticeable decline in political and civic freedoms in various countries over the past few years. He pointed out that the rise of authoritarianism and corruption in democratic processes threatens the democratic ideals that many African nations have been striving for. The current landscape calls for urgent action to address these concerning trends and strengthen democratic institutions. Discussing the role of technology in advancing democracy, Eyakuze noted the dual nature of the internet and social media in enabling both government efficiency and citizen empowerment. While governments may seek to control online platforms during elections, Eyakuze emphasized the importance of leveraging technology to enhance citizen engagement and participation. He urged governments to listen to the voices of their citizens and respond to their concerns effectively, rather than resorting to censorship or restrictions on digital platforms. When addressing the need for swift responses to threats to democracy, particularly in cases of political unrest or coups, Eyakuze called for a reassessment of the principle of non-interference in African affairs. He proposed that regional organizations like the African Union and ECOWAS consider a shared responsibility to intervene when democratically elected governments are overthrown unconstitutionally. By reevaluating the approach to governance and accountability at both national and regional levels, African nations can work towards safeguarding democratic processes and stability. Eyakuze underscored the importance of citizen participation and democratic dialogue in holding leaders accountable and ensuring good governance. He emphasized that democracy is a continuous process that requires active engagement from all stakeholders, including the media, civil society, and ordinary citizens. By creating avenues for peaceful expression and feedback, countries can foster a culture of transparency and responsiveness in government. In conclusion, Eyakuze highlighted the urgency of addressing the challenges facing democracy in Africa, especially in light of the continent's youthful population and growing demands for change. The stakes are high, with stability and progress at risk in countries where democratic principles are undermined. By promoting a culture of openness, accountability, and citizen empowerment, African nations can overcome these challenges and build a more resilient democratic future.