CIVICUS Monitor, an online database that monitors abuses of civic freedoms, downgraded Benin from Obstructed to Repressed.
West Africa articles on Democracy Chronicles
West Africa is a core region of democratic progress in the world and also a region where many of the challenges to better and more widespread world democracy are evident. West Africa here will include fifteen countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo. Nigerian content on Democracy Chronicles is so extensive, it won't be automatically included here, just click the link above. Also check out our section on World Democracy.
Elections and Democratic Backsliding in Benin
Freedom House no longer gives Benin high marks as “free” country and this is attributed to the actions of the current president.
The Key Role Of Dialogue In Gambia’s Process Of Democratic Transition
After a twenty-three-year rule by one president and a de facto one-party state, Gambia saw the inauguration of a new and promising leader, Adama Barrow.
Report Outlines Threats to Freedom in Multiple African Countries
In a dozen countries across Africa, governments have put laws that “improperly constrain” nongovernmental organizations and imperil civil society.
Guinea-Bissau Elects a New Parliament in Peaceful Voting
Voting was peaceful and turnout high in Guinea-Bissau , where voters cast ballots for a new parliament with hopes of ending years of political turmoil.
All-Female Legal Group Fights for Women and Girls in Sierra Leone
A group of lawyers and judges— all of them female, are coming together to fight Spousal abusers, child abusers and even rapists, in Sierra Leone.
Liberia Police Charge Son of ex-Leader in Banknote Scandal
Liberian police charged 61-year-old son of country’s ex-president, Ellen Johnson, in connection with banknote scandal worth millions of U.S. dollars.
Former Mauritanian Slaves Unshackled Yet Far From Free
The Global Slavery Index, published annually by human rights group Walk Free Foundation, estimates that 2 percent of the population are still enslaved.
Senegal Election Commission Warns Against Early Calls Amid Wait
Vote counting has begun in Senegal after a peaceful day of voting in Sunday’s presidential election. CENA says results will be out Monday or Tuesday.
Senegal’s President Macky Sall Seeks 2nd Term
Senegal’s President Macky Sall is counting on the success of his economic record to propel him to win a second term in Sunday’s elections.