At its December plenary session, the EESC hosted a debate on democracy in Africa with representatives from the African Union Economic and Cultural Council (AU ECOSOCC). Both sides agreed that civil society is the driving force for a successful EU-Africa partnership based on equality, fostering civil and social dialogue.

At the plenary debate, at which it also adopted the opinion Democracy in Africa – current situation and future perspectives. What role for the EESC?, the EESC reiterated its commitment to enhancing the strategic partnership with the African Union, supporting the initiative for a joint undertaking to promote the values of democracy, inclusive dialogue and sustainable development. Earlier last year, the EESC and AU ECOSCOCC signed the Memorandum of Understanding.

Kyeretwie Osei, Head of Programs at the African Union of ECOSOCC, in his delivery statement on behalf of the Presiding ECOSOCC Officer Khalid Boudali, explained: 'We have an important job in institution-building to entrench democratic institutions around the continent, making sure that we are able to establish good governance by eliminating and reducing corruption and creating spaces for citizens' expression, among other things. Civil society is at the heart of this goal'.

Oliver Röpke, EESC President stressed: 'Cooperation with the AU ECOSOCC is key in promoting the role of civil society in Africa. Civil society should take part in the decision-making process and tackle further challenges, such as climate change, sustainable development and migration'.

In its opinion, the EESC addresses these challenges and takes the view that, together with recognised representatives of African civil society platforms, it can help promote democratic values, advocate for human rights and help defend democratic regimes in Africa. 

Carlos Trindade, EESC member and rapporteur for the opinion, mentioned that the European approach to developing democracy in Africa should be based on a relationship between equals, taking into account the continent's complexity in terms of economic development, diversity and geopolitical interests.

Sifa Chiyoge Buchekabiri, Regional Director and CEO of the International Cooperative Alliance-Africa (ICA-Africa), spoke about the importance of empowering women in Africa. 'Promoting women's empowerment is key as women are often the backbone of their households. Therefore, by empowering women we are not just helping individuals, we are also empowering entire communities'. (mt)