African democracy under pressure: progress and setbacks
This week, Éric Topona’s guests examine the state of democracy in select sub-Saharan African nations, including Senegal, Madagascar, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. The discussion was recorded in early July at one of Deutsche Welle’s studios in Bonn during a visit organized by the German Institute for Development and Sustainability.
The state of democracy across Africa presents a mixed picture: while some nations make democratic progress, others face a concerning erosion of political freedoms. The continent is caught between mounting pressures—coups, authoritarianism, and shrinking civic spaces—and the resilient demand for accountable governance. This juxtaposition highlights Africa’s complex political landscape, where democratic backsliding and consolidation coexist.
Recent analyses from 2025 and 2026 reveal a troubling trend of democratic decline in several regions. Key challenges include:
- Escalating military rule in the Sahel: Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger are witnessing the entrenchment of juntas.
- Election delays or outright rejections of electoral processes in certain countries.
- Crackdowns on political opposition, media outlets, and civil society organizations.
- Constitutional amendments enabling prolonged presidential tenures.
While elections are still held in many states, their fairness and credibility are frequently contested.
Signs of democratic resilience
Despite these challenges, Africa’s democratic story is not one of unmitigated decline. Countries like Senegal, Cape Verde, Botswana, Seychelles, and Ghana remain benchmarks for political pluralism and peaceful transitions of power. Recent elections in these nations underscore citizens’ ability to hold governments accountable at the ballot box.
Public opinion data from Afrobarometer further reveals that Africans overwhelmingly value democratic principles. There is a strong desire for greater civic participation, transparency, and government accountability. The findings emphasize that citizen engagement remains a cornerstone of democratic governance, with populations actively demanding their democratic rights.
The power of youth in shaping democracy
Africa’s young population is emerging as a driving force in democratic movements. Across the continent, youth-led initiatives are pushing for:
- Stricter electoral transparency.
- Zero tolerance for corruption.
- Improved governance standards.
- Expanded economic and social opportunities.
Critical priorities for the coming years
- Restoring constitutional order in nations governed by military juntas.
- Ensuring the autonomy of electoral and judicial institutions.
- Enforcing term limits and upholding constitutional provisions.
- Safeguarding public freedoms, including press freedom, political opposition, and civil society.
- Addressing socio-economic expectations, particularly among the youth.
The discussion featured three prominent voices:
- Tolojanahary Ndrasana, Transparency International.
- Abdou Coly, CorpsAfrica Senegal.
- Aissatou Ndeye Camara, Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Foundation, Dakar.
