Good Governance

Community members Madagascar After several decades of political and military confrontation and unrest, marked by economic decline and social instability, the region is experiencing more political stability (exception: Zimbabwe) with prospects of stronger economic growth. The cessation of hostilities in Angola, the signing of a peace agreement in the DRC and the peaceful elections in Lesotho 2002 have become encouraging signs for greater integration and cooperation in the region. Furthermore, the young but none the less fragile democracies of the region need encouragement and support.

The Swiss Programme

The objective of the programme is to contribute to democracy and promotion of justice in the region. It can be attained by:

Strengthening formal democracy: supporting election processes and reforms; strengthening civil society and parliaments in preparing, observing and monitoring elections; promoting local democracy, supporting dialogue among and within political parties
Promoting democratic culture: enhancing civic education and human rights awareness; strengthening co-operation amongst civil society in the region in the fields of research, advocacy and training for governance. Supporting access to justice for the poor, focusing on children and women’s rights. Supporting independent and professional media
Responsive and accountable institutions at central and local level: enhancing government and civil society capacities to monitor governance and its impact on poverty alleviation; promoting knowledge sharing and good practices of decentralisation.