WHAT: Reflection and Technical Meeting on Electoral Processes in Africa. 

WHO: The African Union Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security in collaboration with the Africa and West Asia Electoral Process Programme of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA), are organising Reflection Meeting on Electoral Processes In Africa.

WHEN: April 9th to 12th, 2025 

WHERE: Protea Hotel By Marriott, Balaika, Johannesburg, South Africa 

              (Address: Maude St, Sandown, Sandton, 2126) 

BACKGROUND: As Africa continues its path toward democratic consolidation, maintaining electoral integrity is crucial, with elections serving as a cornerstone of democracy and citizen participation. Over the past three decades, key institutions like the African Union (AU), Regional Economic Communities (RECs), and Election Management Body (EMB) networks have played vital roles in ensuring credible, peaceful, and fair elections. In this context, the AU, with the support of its partners, will convene RECs, EMBs, and other stakeholders to reflect on the successes and challenges of the 2024 elections and to plan harmonized technical support initiatives for the upcoming elections in 2025 and 2026.

The 2024 elections across Africa highlighted the continent’s progress and challenges in its democratization efforts, marked by rising demand for accountable leadership and the evolving role of technology in elections. However, issues such as fake news, misinformation, and low voter turnout posed significant challenges to electoral integrity and public trust in election results. These issues underscored the need for continued improvements in electoral processes and civic engagement. Looking ahead to the 2025 elections, the continent faces increased political polarization, security concerns, and challenges to electoral integrity. However, there are also opportunities for reform, regional cooperation, and technological advancements that can strengthen electoral systems and political stability.

This meeting is being implemented within the framework of International IDEA’s memorandum of understanding with the African Union, with financial support from the EU-funded Strengthening Pan-African Capacities for Electoral Observation and Assistance (SPEC) project. The event will be attended by Representatives of AU, RECs, EMB networks and EMBs that will be organising elections in 2025 and 2026.

OBJECTIVE: The overall objective of this meeting is to provide a platform for the AU, RECS, and EMBs to take stock of the emerging trends in elections that were held in 2024 and to jointly plan their interventions for African countries holding elections in 2025 and 2026.

KEY FEATURES OF THE EVENT: 

• Discussions on trends and challenges from the 2024 elections across Africa 
• Collaborative planning for improving electoral processes for 2025-2026 
• Engagement of key experts, stakeholders, and decision-makers in the African electoral landscape 

WORKING LANGUAGES: The meeting will be conducted in four languages – English, French, Arabic, and Portuguese.

SPECIAL NOTICE: Organizers will arrange an opportunity to media houses to interview representatives from regional and national institutions on forthcoming electoral processes and provide a dedicated space for your coverage. Please note that while we are pleased to offer media access, we are unable to cover any associated expenses. 

- Coffee breaks would be an ideal time for interviews.

For any inquiries:

• Limi Mohammed Shash, Communications focal point, GCPD, PAPS, African union: shashlm@africa-union.org 
• Yared Amiha, Communication Officer, International IDEA: Y.amiha@idea.int
• Fasika Ejigu Administrative Assistant, International IDEA:  f.amde@idea.int

 

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