April 9-10, 2025
Porto Novo, Benin
Benin, a land of democracy and hope, is preparing for a crucial moment in its political history: the general elections of 2026. This electoral cycle, which will take place in accordance with the provisions of Law No. 2019-40 of November 7, 2019, establishing the Constitution of Benin, and Law No. 2019-43 of November 15, 2019, governing the electoral code, will mark a significant milestone in strengthening Benin’s democracy. However, the political climate is constantly evolving, shaped by recent reforms of the electoral code that will have a profound impact on the electoral process.
In this context, the Network of Women Leaders for Development (RFLD) in collaboration with WADEMOS, aware of the crucial importance of inclusive participation from all stakeholders, especially youth, in building a peaceful, transparent, and fair electoral process, has taken the initiative to organize a consultation for youth on political participation. Young people, who represent a significant portion of the Beninese population, are key actors in the future of democracy. Their active engagement is essential to ensure that the 2026 elections reflect the aspirations and concerns of the entire Beninese population.
The youth consultation on political participation aims to create a space for dialogue and exchange where young people can express their concerns, aspirations, and recommendations in light of the 2026 general elections. This initiative is part of the RFLD’s commitment to promoting civic participation and strengthening participatory democracy in Benin. It provides young people with a unique opportunity to make their voices heard and contribute to the development of a more inclusive and representative electoral process.
The objectives of this consultation are multiple and ambitious. Firstly, it aims to create a space for dialogue and exchange among youth, political actors, civil society organizations, and development partners on the issues regarding youth political participation. Secondly, it seeks to gather the perspectives, concerns, and recommendations of young people on electoral reforms, challenges to political participation, and strategies to enhance their civic engagement. It is also essential to raise awareness among young people about their civic rights and responsibilities, as well as the issues surrounding the 2026 general elections. Lastly, it seeks to enhance young people’s capacity to participate actively in the electoral process, particularly in leadership, communication, and advocacy, and to develop a report of recommendations for political actors, electoral institutions, and development partners to incorporate youth perspectives into policies and programs related to elections.
The expected outcomes of this consultation are equally important. Firstly, it aims to produce a youth consultation report on political participation, containing the perspectives, concerns, and recommendations of young people. Secondly, it aims to develop a roadmap to strengthen youth political participation in anticipation of the 2026 general elections. Additionally, it is crucial to create a dialogue and collaboration platform among young people, political actors, civil society organizations, and development partners. Lastly, it aims to raise awareness among young people about their civic rights and responsibilities, as well as the issues surrounding the general elections of 2026, and to enhance the capacity of young people to actively participate in the electoral process.
The methodology for this consultation will be participatory and inclusive, using a variety of methods to gather youth perspectives. Consultation workshops will be organized in different regions of Benin, targeting young people from diverse backgrounds. These workshops will utilize interactive methods, such as group discussions, case studies, simulations, and reflection exercises, to encourage active participation from young people. Online and offline surveys will be conducted to gather young people’s opinions on political participation issues. An online platform will be created to allow young people to contribute to the consultation, share their ideas, and participate in online discussions. Individual and group interviews will be conducted with youth leaders, experts, and representatives of youth organizations to gather their in-depth perspectives on political participation issues. A document analysis will be conducted to examine policies, laws, and relevant reports related to youth political participation in Benin.
The target audience for this consultation consists of Beninese youth aged 18 to 35, with particular attention to young people from marginalized groups, such as young women, youth living in rural areas, youth with disabilities, and youth from ethnic minorities.
The RFLD will collaborate with the following partners to implement the youth consultation: youth organizations and youth movements, civil society organizations and NGOs, governmental institutions, electoral institutions, development partners, and the media.
The youth consultation aims to create a lasting impact by enhancing the political participation of youth in Benin and integrating their perspectives into policies and programs related to elections.
The youth consultation on political participation is a crucial initiative for strengthening participatory democracy in Benin and ensuring that youth voices are heard in the electoral process of 2026. The RFLD is committed to working closely with partners to ensure the success of this initiative and build a future where young people fully participate in political life. By fostering an inclusive dialogue, the RFLD aims to empower Beninese youth to play an active role in shaping their own futures and influencing the decisions that affect their communities.
This initiative will not only engage young people in discussions around the electoral process but will also equip them with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate the political landscape effectively. The RFLD envisions a vibrant democratic environment in Benin where all voices, especially those of the youth, are valued and considered in the decision-making process.
Through this youth consultation, the RFLD aims to reinforce democratic values and principles in Benin, ensuring that the next generation understands their importance and is prepared to uphold them. By integrating youth perspectives into political discourse and ensuring their active participation, the initiative seeks to foster a culture of accountability and transparency within the political system.
In conclusion, the youth consultation on political participation represents a pivotal step towards a more democratic and participatory political landscape in Benin. The RFLD looks forward to the outcomes of this consultation and is committed to working tirelessly with all stakeholders to realize the potential of youth in shaping a better future for their country.
