Why Sudan Matters To Us All
“As we approach nearly two months of violent internal conflict in Sudan, the chances of a peaceful resolution seem increasingly remote. For…
IRI is working to counter the sentiment that democracy is in retreat in Africa. Evidence for this belief includes backsliding in Ethiopia and Sudan, two countries that held out hope for a democratic awakening.
Recent coups in Guinea, Chad, Mali, and Burkina Faso provide further evidence of backsliding. Restricted and closed space for dissent, free speech, and free assembly in Angola, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, Cameroon, and Zimbabwe (among others) do not seem to provide much in the way of hope. Additionally, during the past 18 months, COVID-19 has provided fertile ground for autocracies to further restrict democracy.
On the other hand, according to the latest World Values Survey, more Africans support “emancipative” (i.e., democratic) notions than support autocratic values. The older generation of autocratic leaders, such as President Yoweri Museveni in Uganda, is facing a population that believes in democracy and autonomy, principles at odds with their political leadership. Polls show that the majority of young people and women in Africa support democratic values and want to see them reflected in their countries’ institutions.
IRI’s role in Africa is critical, helping to strengthen legislative and executive bodies, civil society organizations (CSOs), and the media, among others. Our work with legislators and their staff results in laws that better represent citizens’ priorities. IRI also helps leaders and politicians use laws fairly, transparently, and effectively. Lastly, IRI’s supports political inclusion, bringing traditionally marginalized populations like young people, women, and people with disabilities into political processes. In supporting inclusion and democracy, IRI is able to help address other issues of concern on the continent, including the pernicious effect of foreign influence, the enduring challenge of corruption, and ways of reducing political conflict.
“As we approach nearly two months of violent internal conflict in Sudan, the chances of a peaceful resolution seem increasingly remote. For…
The House Democracy Partnership (HDP) is a bipartisan commission of the U.S. House of Representatives that works directly with over…
The House Democracy Partnership (HDP) is a bipartisan commission of the U.S. House of Representatives that works directly with over…
“On Feb. 25, Nigerians elected a new president in a process that fell far short of what voters deserved and…
For media inquiries, please contact:Paulina Chavez Alonzo pchavezalonzo@ndi.orgRyan Mahoney rmahoney@iri.org Abuja, Nigeria – The International Republican Institute (IRI) and National Democratic Institute…
Abuja, Nigeria I. Overview This preliminary statement is offered by the international observation mission of the International Republican Institute (IRI)…
The Joint National Democratic Institute (NDI) and the International Republican Institute (IRI) Election Observation Mission in Nigeria issued the following…
“We are here to show our support for, and solidarity with Nigerian democrats”
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