Recently, the West Africa Conference on Democratic Elections united key stakeholders to strengthen regional democratic institutions successfully.
Transitioning from dialogue to action, participants prioritized electoral integrity and institutional resilience.
Notably, Ambassador Gautier Mignot, former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, and Professor Attahiru Jega collaborated with experts.
Together, they analyzed 2024 election challenges, then outlined strategies to enhance transparency, voter trust, and procedural fairness moving forward.
Ambassador Mignot, representing the European Union, emphasized the EU’s enduring commitment to supporting peace, security, and democracy in West Africa.
Reflecting on the challenges faced during recent elections, he underscored the importance of addressing systemic issues such as electoral violence, voter suppression, and logistical inefficiencies.
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He also highlighted progress made in fostering transparency and inclusivity while urging stakeholders to remain vigilant in safeguarding democratic gains.
The conference served as a platform for candid discussions on the successes and shortcomings of recent electoral cycles. Former President Jonathan shared insights from his extensive experience in election observation missions across the continent, stressing the need for credible institutions and impartial leadership in managing elections. Professor Jega echoed these sentiments, advocating for enhanced regional cooperation to tackle shared challenges such as disinformation and political interference.
Participants also explored innovative solutions to improve voter participation and trust in the electoral process. Discussions ranged from leveraging technology for voter registration and result transmission to implementing robust legal frameworks that ensure accountability.
Ultimately, the gathering urged governments, civil society organizations, and international partners to collaborate in building a secure, democratic, and resilient West Africa. Stakeholders viewed the EU’s pledged support as vital for fostering long-term stability and regional prosperity.
Meanwhile, as West Africa navigates its democratic journey, such conferences demonstrate the region’s resolve to learn from past challenges while pursuing an inclusive, prosperous future.
