RESEARCH REPORT

UNITED NATIONS OFFICE OF POLITICAL AND

PEACEBUILDING AFFAIRS
(UNDPPA)

ENSURING A PEACEFUL AND INCLUSIVE

TRANSITION TO DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE

AYŞE DUMAN
Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

Basic Overview of the Issue

The goals of establishing and strengthening inclusive political processes are to
increase public engagement and political power, increase institutional and governmental
accountability, and fortify the social compact. To quote the United Nations (UN) Secretary
General, the three pillars of the UN mission, as outlined in the UN Charter, are respect for
human rights, economic and social growth and development, and international peace and
security. Democracy, which is founded on the rule of law, is ultimately a means to achieving
these goals.
Colonialism had a complicated history in Africa that continues to influence the
continent's political climate. By enforcing artificial borders, exploiting natural resources, and
promoting ethnic divisions, colonial powers frequently left behind weakened institutions and
simmering conflicts. Many African nations experienced political instability throughout the
post-colonial era, which was characterised by coups, civil wars, and authoritarian regimes.
Furthermore, the emergence of terrorist organisations like Al-Shabaab in East Africa and
Boko Haram in West Africa has seriously threatened democratic government by escalating
unrest and undermining the authority of the state.
Current research and publications highlight the obstacles and opportunities for
furthering Central Africa's shift towards democratic governance. The region's transition to
democracy has been hampered by serious political instability and deficiencies in governance.
For example, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) faced difficulties in developing
efficient democratic institutions as a result of a protracted civil war and political unrest.
Similar political unrest and bloodshed have endangered democratic advancements in
Burundi, especially after President Pierre Nkurunziza's contentious reelection in 2015. As a
result, areas like the Horn of Africa and the Sahel have seen a particularly noticeable impact
from terrorist organisations. Terrorist groups such as Al-Qaeda and Al-Shabaab have taken
advantage of political instability and weaknesses in governance in nations such as Mali and
Somalia in order to gain territory and weaken governmental authority. By attacking citizens,
governmental buildings, and peacekeeping workers, these organisations increase instability
in already unstable areas.
Comprehensive strategies that place a high priority on inclusive governance,
institutional strengthening, and conflict resolution are needed to address these issues.

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

Inequalities in socioeconomic status, deficiencies in governance, and regional conflicts are

among the main drivers of political instability and terrorism that must be addressed in order
to advance the transition to democratic governance. Furthermore, international cooperation
and support are essential to give African nations that are striving to strengthen democratic
government and combat terrorist threats financial resources, technical support, and
capacity-building.
Despite the fact that Africa has achieved great progress toward democratic
governance, ongoing problems with terrorism and political instability highlight the need for
ongoing efforts to accelerate the shift to inclusive and robust democracies. Africa can
achieve its inhabitants' ambitions for democratic governance, strengthen its institutions, and
advance peace and security by tackling these issues comprehensively and encouraging
regional collaboration.

Explanation of Important Terms

Democracy
In a recent resolution, the Member States agreed that 'Democracy is a universal value
based on the freely expressed will of the people to determine their own political,
economic, social and cultural systems and their full participation in all aspects of their
lives. “Democracy is a core value of the United Nations. The UN supports democracy
by promoting human rights, development, and peace and security.”
Transitional Period
In the context of world politics, the "transitional period" is understood as a reversal of
the fundamental ideas that underlay the previous, now-outdated system of
international relations. Transitional times are examined in light of alternate approaches
of altering the guiding principles of the international relations system.
Rule of Law
According to the Oxford Dictionary, “rule of law” is the restriction of the arbitrary
exercise of power by subordinating it to well-defined and established laws (Oxford
Dictionary, 2023). In environments impacted by crises and conflicts, especially those
with a history of political violence or going through difficult political changes,
strengthening the rule of law is crucial to averting conflict from starting or returning.

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

Political Pluralism
“Pluralism, in political science, is the view that in liberal democracies power is (or
should be) dispersed among a variety of economic and ideological pressure groups
and is not (or should not be) held by a single elite or group of elites. Pluralism
assumes that diversity is beneficial to society and that autonomy should be enjoyed by
disparate functional or cultural groups within a society, including religious groups,
trade unions, professional organisations, and ethnic minorities.” (Britannica, 2008)
Constitutionalism
According to Britannica, constitutionalism is the belief that a set of laws or a
constitution determines the power of a government. While limited government is
commonly associated with constitutionalism, that is merely one historical interpretation
of constitutionalism and by no means the most common one.
Coup d’état
A coup d’état, or coup, is defined as a “sudden decisive exercise of force in politics”.
It’s the act of overthrowing an existing government, especially by illegal means by a
small group or, commonly, the military.
Civil Society
The complex web of associations, networks, and links that separates the individual
from the contemporary state is known as civil society. The primary principles of
contemporary liberal and democratic theorising now include this contemporary
concept of civil society. Apart from its descriptive qualities, the terms "civil society"
carry a long list of meanings and ethical and political goals. According to some of its
advocates, the development of an autonomous civil society is a requirement for a
robust democracy, and the decline or near-absence of it is frequently pointed to as
both a cause and a consequence of a number of modern socio-political ills.
Autocratic Rule
Autocracy is the system of government which has the ruler being the absolute holder
of power. The ruler in this type of system would be classified as an autocrat. Most
types of monarchy and dictatorship fall under the autocratic type of government.
Autocracy contrasts with governmental systems such as democracy and feudalism.

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

Detailed Background of the Issue

Considering the shifts in global geopolitics and social expectations for governance
with participation of the general population, the global community recognises the importance
of allowing inclusive and peaceful transitions to democratic governance to take place.
Establishing or reforming political systems toward democratic ideals is a complex endeavour
that requires careful consideration of historical, cultural, and socioeconomic contexts. The
guide for promoting responsible and open governance is the idea of democracy, which is
based on the concepts of popular authority and citizen participation. Countries that are
transitioning to democracy frequently face the difficulty of striking a balance between the
many demands and goals of their citizens and the establishment of institutions that protect
basic human rights. As history shows, democratic governance transitions are often difficult,
involving anything from dictatorships giving in to popular pressures all the way to post-conflict
situations looking for stability. Comprehensive political, legal, and social reforms that settle
past disputes and create the foundation for a more just and equitable future are frequently
essential to the success of transitions. In today's world, several countries are undergoing or
are considering a shift to democratic government. The emergence of populism, outside
interference, and the ongoing threat of authoritarian regression complicate these
transformations. In order to navigate these obstacles, one must have a sophisticated
comprehension of the particular circumstances that each nation encounters. Political
competition and participation are central to democracy (Dahl, 1971). Elections serve as the
main instrument through which these dimensions come about in practice as people have the
right to vote and the right to run for office in fair, free, and regular elections. Beyond
elections, elements of civil society such as associations and social movements also indicate
political interests. Thus, people have several mechanisms through which to hold rulers
accountable in democracies.

Authoritarianism
In many African nations, authoritarianism has posed a serious barrier to the
continent's shift to democratic government. Centralised power, restricted political freedoms,
repression of opposition, and a lack of public accountability are the characteristics of
authoritarian governments. The establishment of inclusive governance systems may be

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

hampered by these regimes' inclination to place more emphasis on retaining power than on
promoting democratic institutions and values. There are a number of reasons why
authoritarianism is so common in Africa, such as the historical effects of colonialism, the
fragility of democratic institutions, and the concentration of power within the ruling class.
Numerous African nations inherited authoritarian political systems from their colonial
dictators, who instituted centralised, authoritarian political structures that continued long after
independence. Authoritarian tendencies in African politics were also reinforced by the legacy
of military dictatorships and one-party control in the post-colonial era. In order to hold onto
power and eliminate resistance, authoritarian regimes in Africa have frequently employed a
variety of strategies, including media censorship, civil liberties restrictions, election process
manipulation, and the repression of political protest. These actions increase societal
dissatisfaction and political instability while undermining democratic government ideals like
accountability, transparency, and the rule of law.
The transition to democratic governance in Africa has been severely hindered by the
prevalence of authoritarianism. The resistance of authoritarian leaders and regimes to
political reforms that challenge their hold on power restricts the smooth transition to
democracy. Furthermore, authoritarian methods undermine public trust in democratic
institutions and procedures by creating a climate of dread and suspicion. Despite the
obstacles presented by authoritarianism, effective democratic transitions have occurred in
Africa on a few occasions. In certain nations, democratic changes have been adopted and
autocratic dictators have been overthrown thanks in part to civil society activism, community
organising, and external pressure. For instance, public protests in nations like Burkina Faso
and Tunisia brought down long-standing authoritarian governments and cleared the ground
for the transition to democracy.

One-Party Rule

“One-party rule” is a political system which occurs when a single political party
controls the majority of the vote and dominates the nation with little to no opposition. One
political party’s dominance, the repression of opposing parties, and the degree of political
pluralism in this system are its defining characteristics.

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

In the early years after independence, one-party rule became a popular form of
government in Africa, and many recently independent nations adopted it as a way to
preserve stability and maintain power. One-party control was frequently defended by the
leaders of the ruling parties as being essential to the country's progress, unity, and freedom
from the effects of colonialism. In actuality, one-party republics frequently served as platforms
for authoritarian governance, which is marked by a lack of political freedom, political
repression, and a high degree of accountability. The applications of one-party rule in newly
independent nations have had a significant impact on the region’s efforts in democratic
transition.
A dynamic multi party democracy cannot flourish under one-party rule because it
stifles political competition and concentrates power in the hands of the ruling elites.
Opposition parties are frequently suppressed, outlawed, or sidelined, depriving the public of
important voting options in politics. In the absence of opposition parties acting as effective
checks and balances, one-party nations are vulnerable to corruption, poor governance, and a
lack of accountability. Few checks on the authority of leaders and ruling parties result in
lawlessness and poor use of public funds. One-party government frequently imposes
restrictions on political involvement, civil freedoms, and freedom of speech by silencing or
censoring opposing viewpoints. The concepts of democratic governance are compromised
by this lack of political freedom, which also impedes the growth of an informed and involved
population. There have been opposing views on the continent's transition to more democratic
governance systems moving on from one-party rule. In 1992 the Kenyan politician Peter
Anyang' Nyong'o stated that, “Apologists for Africa's single-party regimes argue that
traditional African societies were always akin to the one-party system. Despite some
self-critical statements that he made in 1990, some more recent comments of Tanzania's
former president Julius Nyerere indicate that he remains adamantly wedded to this view.
While it is true that political parties as such did not exist in so-called traditional African
societies, it also follows logically that the concept of political party cannot be used in
analysing politics in such societies. Those who justify the one-party system on the basis of
our cultural heritage have, therefore, been doing so by means of false analogies and the use
of anachronism.”

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

Main Struggles in Transitioning

Transitioning to democratic governance is a complex journey for any nation to
undergo and comes along with a plethora of challenges and issues. Certain regions,
including our region of focus Africa, have been affected by historical legacies such as
colonialism and post-colonial struggles which have left deep imprints on these regions’
political landscapes and governmental regimes. The transition to democracy is especially
difficult in such nations because authoritarian regimes, which are categorised by centralised
control, the repression of free speech, and restricted political liberties, have been in place for
a long time.
The absence of inclusive political structures and processes has been one of the main
obstacles to the democratic transition. Adding to social injustices and grievances, ruling elites
have frequently dominated power, silenced critics, and upheld exclusive political structures.
Divisions based on race, religion, and tribe have made politics even more complex,
intensifying disputes and inhibiting attempts to create inclusive and active democratic
systems. Furthermore, the rule of law and accountability have been compromised by weak or
dispersed state institutions, such as security forces, judicial systems, and electoral
organisations. This has resulted in the continuation of cycles of corruption, impunity, and
poor governance.
The evolution of democracy in the region of Africa (and the Middle East) has also
been significantly shaped by outside influences and actions. Foreign interventions, proxy
wars, and geopolitical rivalries have frequently heightened already-existing tensions and
hindered efforts to achieve inclusive and peaceful governance. Domestic dynamics have
regularly intertwined with the interests of regional and international actors, such as major
powers, neighbouring states, and non-state actors. Such interventions compromised the
sovereignty of affected countries and influenced political results. This has resulted in
problems like military interventions, foreign meddling in elections, and the escalation of
ethnic or religious hostilities for geopolitical purposes.
Elections in Democratic Governance
Elections are essential to democratic processes such as peace agreement
implementation, political transitions, and democracy preservation. Elections offer a vital point
of contact between the general public and the interconnected objectives of eliminating

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

poverty, promoting human development, and eventually achieving the Sustainable

Development Goals. Reliable elections offer political legitimacy, which is necessary for states
to be in good health and provide services a critical responsibility to address the numerous
challenges facing sustainable development.
Organising free and fair elections is not the only step in preventing electoral violence.
Elections that are fair and free do not provide election security, just as peaceful elections do
not ensure democratic quality. Specialised early warning systems and ongoing risk
assessments are common components of the many strategies and instruments used to
prevent election violence, but they differ greatly in terms of the implementing actor, time, and
scope. To enhance accessibility and fairness of the voting process, early modifications to
electoral laws may be approved domestically years before voters cast their votes. Since local
government officials bear the major responsibility for the transparent and peaceful
organisation of elections, they might take preventive actions. As long as the ruling class
gives domestic Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) —like youth organisations—room
to exist, political parties, the local media, and other organisations may all be beneficial. In
addition, the technique of preventing election violence targets certain groups and individuals
based on risk assessments in specific situations.
Touching up on the aforementioned “rule of law”, there are numerous actions that shall
be taken in order to strengthen it. This is especially important for nations that consistently
struggle with the process of applying political changes to their governmental systems.
Development must be fueled by strengthening the rule of law via inclusive, well-run security
and justice systems that enable all citizens, including and especially women, to access the
legal system, combat impunity, and adhere to international norms. Establishing trust between
the state and society is also essential to strengthening the rule of law. This can be
accomplished by supporting national authorities in implementing comprehensive, sector-wide
reforms that are inclusive and promote national ownership for long-term sustainability, as well
as by helping them achieve quick wins through the prompt restoration of service delivery.
In the region of Africa, there have been numerous attempts in coups d’etats to
overthrow the current governmental system. There have been 486 coups (attempted or
successful) worldwide since 1950. With 214 of these coups having taken place in Africa, the
region accounts for the largest number amongst all continents. At least 106 of these 214

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

coups in Africa have been successful. According to data gathered by American researchers
Clayton L. Thyne and Jonathan M. Powel, at least 45 of the 54 countries in Africa have
experienced at least one coup attempt since 1950.

Image 1: AJLabs. “Mapping Africa’s Coups d’etat across the Years.” Al Jazeera, Al Jazeera, 31 Aug. 2023

Coup attempts have been ongoing to this day and there have been quite a number of
successful coup attempts in the recent years, too.

Table1: Recent Coups in African Countries

Country Date Short summary

Niger July 26, 2023 President Bazoum was overthrown by the military

Burkina Faso January 2022 President Roch Kabore was overthrown by the Burkina
Faso army, which blamed him for not being able to stop Islamist
militant violence. Paul Henri-Damiba was forcibly deposed by
army Captain Ibrahim Traoré in a second coup that September of
that year.

Guinea September 2021 President Alpha Conde was overthrown by Colonel

Mamady Doumbouya, the leader of special forces. Widespread
unrest had been sparked a year earlier when Conde had altered
the constitution to get around restrictions that would have kept
him from running for a third term.

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

Chad April 2021 President Idriss Deby was killed on the battlefield while
visiting forces battling rebels in the north, and Chad's army
assumed control.

Mali August 2020 Ibrahim Boubacar Keita was ousted as president by a

gang of colonels from Mali. The coup came after accusations of
corruption, disputed legislative elections, and anti-government
demonstrations over worsening security. Nine months later, there
was a countercoup led by Assimi Goita, the vice president from
the previous coup, who took over as head of state.

Sudan October 2021 The country's democratic transition was rocked when
General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan staged a military takeover in
Khartoum, overthrowing a government council that was jointly
controlled by the army and civilians.

Major Parties Involved

United States of America (USA)
The US government plays a role in the globalisation of democratic governments in
numerous nations. The nation’s government frequently offers funds, technical support, and
help to nations going through democratic transitions through its organisations like the
Department of State and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
The US government’s diplomatic efforts are mainly focused on encouraging and facilitating
peaceful transitions to democracy. In order to encourage communication, inclusivity, and
respect to democratic requirements, this involves diplomatic discussion with both
governments and parties in opposition. The US government acts upon this support of
transition to democratic governance via the American democracy promotion which adopts
the aim of inspiring political reformers, both governmental and non-governmental, to work for
political changes that would eventually result in democratic government. Countries going
through democratic transitions receive financial assistance from governmental organisations
such as the USAID. The US government also helps nations in terms of technical support to

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

aid their growth in democratic transitions. This can involve competency with the creation of
constitutions, election procedures, the rule of law, and reforming governance. This support
takes the form of money, cooperation on different projects, and developing the capacity of
democracy within the governmental systems.
South Africa
Having leveraged its own successful transition from apartheid to democracy as a
model to neighbouring African nations, South Africa has played a significant role in promoting
transitions to democratic governance. In several African nations, South Africa has taken a
leading role in peace negotiations and conflict resolution. For instance, South Africa was
crucial in mediating the early 2000s peace process in Burundi, which resulted in the 2000
signing of the Arusha Peace and Reconciliation Agreement. In a similar vein, South Africa
has participated in mediation initiatives in Sudan, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of
the Congo (DRC), and other nations plagued by violence. In order to promote free, fair, and
legitimate elections in many African nations, South Africa has offered technical support and
assistance for the electoral procedures in those nations. Among the nations where South
African observation teams have been sent to observe elections are Mozambique, Zimbabwe,
and Madagascar. The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) of South Africa has also
given electoral commissions in other African nations advice and experience.

In order to support good governance and improve democratic institutions throughout

Africa, South Africa has also participated in capacity building programs. This entails offering
assistance and training to legislators, election officials, public personnel, and other significant
players. Through a number of training programs and technical assistance projects, South
Africa's governance experience—particularly in areas like constitutionalism, public
administration, and human rights—has been shared. South Africa actively participates in
regional and global forums to advance human rights and democratic governance throughout
Africa. South Africa promotes democratic norms and principles and aids in the creation of
regional frameworks and mechanisms for advancing democracy, peace, and security as a
member of regional organisations like the Southern African Development Community
(SADC) and the African Union (AU).

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

Utilising its own experience with transitional justice, South Africa has assisted other
African nations in addressing past violations of human rights, fostering reconciliation, and
establishing lasting peace. Initiatives of a similar nature have been modelled after South
Africa's Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), Rwanda, Sierra Leone, and Liberia. As
the most powerful country in Africa, South Africa has frequently used its moral authority and
diplomatic weight to promote democracy, human rights, and the rule of law throughout the
continent. South Africa has continuously promoted democratic government as a crucial
component of peace, stability, and development in Africa through its public declarations,
diplomatic missions, and participation in international forums.
African Union (AU)
The AU has been actively involved in promoting peaceful and inclusive transitions to
democratic governance in the region of Africa through various mechanisms, initiatives, and
interventions. Adopted in 2000, the AU's Constitutive Act places a strong focus on advancing
human rights, democratic governance, and the rule of law as fundamental values that direct
the behaviour of its member states. The AU establishes standards and guidelines through its
policy documents, including the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance
(2007), with the goal of promoting democratic government and human rights respect
throughout the continent. Given that disputes frequently provide serious obstacles to
democratic transitions, AU is essential to the prevention and resolution of conflicts that
endanger peace and security across the continent. The Peace and Security Council (PSC) of
the African Union uses diplomacy, peacekeeping missions, and mediation to avoid, manage,
and resolve disputes. The AU helps to create conditions that are favourable for democratic
government by addressing the underlying causes of conflicts and encouraging
communication between parties.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom (UK) has had a significant impact on the historical governance of
Africa since the nation contributed to this process via colonisation during the 19th and 20th
centuries. In Africa, the British colonial government frequently preferred indirect control,
which entailed governing via traditional systems and local leaders. During colonial authority,
this system contributed to stability, but it also strengthened authoritarian structures and
hindered the growth of democratic institutions and practices. In order to keep control, the

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

British used divide and conquer strategies, taking advantage of regional and racial
differences. Divide and rule has left a lasting impact in post-colonial African cultures, fueling
political fracturing, ethnic conflicts, and difficulties establishing inclusive democratic
governance. Institutions were frequently created during British colonial authority to further
imperial goals rather than encourage democratic accountability or participation. Many African
countries had inadequate institutional foundations following independence due to limited
investment in education, infrastructure, and the formation of civil society, which hindered the
shift to democratic rule. In addition, institutional disparities that still exist today were brought
about by British colonialism. For instance, the colonial government gave preference to some
areas and ethnic groups over others, which resulted in unequal development, differences in
political representation, and unequal access to resources. The consolidation of democracy
has been impacted by social and political tensions stoked by these imbalances. The UK has
not signed any particular treaties regarding restitution or reparations for colonialism in Africa.
However, it has participated in international agreements and campaigns meant to tackle
more general concerns like the residues of colonialism, human rights, and development. As
part of this, colonial peoples signed the 1960 United Nations Declaration on the Granting of
Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, which recognized their right to
independence and self-determination. The Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of
the Crime of Genocide (1948), which addresses human rights violations in diverse situations,
is another document that the UK has ratified. The United Kingdom endorses the human
rights concepts outlined in the African document on Human and Peoples' Rights (1981),
although not being a party to the said document. Additionally, the United Kingdom is a
signatory to the 1966 International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which has
provisions related to compensation of historical injustices and the advancement of human
rights. It is to be noted that these agreements don't particularly address restitution or
reparations for colonial abuses in Africa, even though they do touch on more general
colonialism-related issues.
France
The role of France in world politics is significant when it comes to foreign and security
policy towards the region of Africa. France is a critical global actor, being a member of
various international organisations such as the United Nations Security Council, NATO, the

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

G-8, and the G-20. It is also one of the world's largest economic powers and the
second-largest economic power in Europe. France pursued a realistic foreign policy
regarding colonialism to exploit Africa's rich resources since the 17th century. France’s role in
the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885 was large as European powers, including the nation
itself, divided Africa to protect their economic and political interests. France’s colonial policy
focused on cultural and political assimilation rather than purely economic exploitation. This
policy involved imposing French culture and banning African languages and traditions.
France established federations in Africa, such as French West Africa and French Equatorial
Africa, to strengthen its colonies economically. France's economic system in Africa is
described as detrimental to African states, as they were forced to trade with France at
unfavourable terms, leading to an unfair economic relationship and increased
interdependence. During the Cold War era, France maintained its relations with Africa
through cooperation agreements, military interventions, and financial assistance policies to
protect its economic and political interests in its Francophone African territories. The concept
of "France-Afrique" during the era, emphasises the continued strong relations between
France and its former colonies despite their independence. From the perspective of
international relations theories, France's policy in Africa during the Cold War era is
considered to be dominated by a realist approach, characterised by military interventions to
expand its sphere of influence. The term "neo-colonialism" may be used to describe France's
post-colonial policy towards Africa, highlighting the perpetuation of dependency relations
economically and politically. The establishment of organisations like the African and
Malagasy Union (AMU) and the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) can be
considered as part of France's efforts to maintain a special relationship with Francophone
African countries. With the many treaties and agreements, which France were part of, that
were signed in order to maintain colonialist power over Africa for centuries and the continuing
acts of neo-colonialism, Africa’s certain nations still find themselves greatly under the
cultural, economic, and political influence of countries such as France.
Nigeria
After Nigeria gained independence from British colonial authority in 1960, the country
has had a fluctuating history defined by military coups and authoritarian governance. The
end of military rule in Nigeria was signalled in 1999 with the election of Olusegun Obasanjo

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

as president, which marked a crucial milestone in the country's democratic [Link]

has conducted multiple democratic elections since then, although some of them have been
tainted by violence and irregularities. Nigeria has improved in fostering freedom of speech,
establishing democratic institutions, and raising political engagement in spite of these
obstacles. The consolidation of democratic administration is seriously hampered by Nigeria's
ongoing problems with insecurity, ethnic and religious tensions, and corruption.
Ghana
In Africa, Ghana's shift to democratic government is frequently praised as an example
of success. With the adoption of a new constitution in 1992, Ghana began the transition to
democracy following decades of military takeovers and authoritarian government. Since then,
many political parties have alternated in power during a number of transparent and peaceful
elections in Ghana. Ghana's democracy has been consolidated in part because of its
adherence to democratic ideals, regard for the law, and thriving civil society. Strong
institutions, frequent elections, and a generally calm political climate have been
characteristics of Ghana's democratic transition. But issues like poverty, unemployment
among young people, and corruption still exist and need to be addressed. The leadership of
Jerry Rawlings, who first came to power through a military coup in 1981 but later adopted
civilian administration, was one of the major elements in Ghana's smooth transition. After the
2000 elections, Rawlings resigned as president, overseeing Ghana's democratic transition
and establishing a precedent for peaceful handovers of power. Ghana has established strong
democratic institutions, including an independent judiciary, electoral commission, and human
rights commission, which have contributed to the country's democratic consolidation. A few
of said institutions include; National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), Human Rights
Commission (NHRC), Office of the Ombudsman (CHRAJ) which investigates complaints of
administrative injustice and corruption, and National Media Commission (NMC) regulating
the media industry and promotes media freedom.
Kenya
Kenya's democratic transition to government has been characterised by both
achievements and disappointments. Kenya's one-party government ended in 1991, and the
country passed a new constitution in 2010 with major changes intended to strengthen
democracy, give more power to local communities, and defend human [Link] Kenya has

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

also had to deal with issues like ethnic division, disputed elections, and electoral violence. A
particularly tragic chapter in Kenya's democratic journey occurred during the 2007–2008
post–election violence, which claimed hundreds of lives and caused widespread
displacement. Kenya has advanced democratic government despite these obstacles, as
seen by its regular election schedule, enhanced independent institutions, and increased civic
space. For Kenya to solidify its democracy, ongoing initiatives to combat corruption, advance
inclusivity, and uphold the rule of law are essential.
Ethiopia
Significant political reforms have taken place in Ethiopia in recent years, leading to the
appointment of Abiy Ahmed as prime minister in 2018. A number of changes have been
launched by Abiy's administration with the goals of creating political space, advancing
reconciliation, and supporting democratic governance. These reforms include holding peace
negotiations with neighbouring Eritrea, freeing political prisoners, and removing restrictions
on the media and civil society. However, issues including violence between communities,
ethnic conflicts, and violations of human rights impede Ethiopia's democratic transition.
Despite these difficulties, the democratic transition in Ethiopia marks a dramatic break from
decades of autocratic control by the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front
(EPRDF). In order to successfully implement democracy in Ethiopia, these issues must be
resolved while advancing inclusivity, communication, and human rights awareness.
International International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance
(IDEA)
International IDEA is a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) and a global advocate
for democracy with the main aim of offering crucial knowledge and assistance to nations
going through democratic transitions. This group focuses on democratic governance,
constitution-writing, and election procedures. Through research, policy recommendations,
and capacity-building initiatives, International IDEA assists governments and civil society in
building democratic institutions. The organisation is an essential partner in international
efforts to advance democratic principles because of its dedication to inclusivity and best
practices, which aid in the creation of durable democratic frameworks around the globe.

17
Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

Chronology of Important Events

Date Description of Event

1950s-1960s African Independence Movements

During this time, several African nations won their freedom from colonial
authority, which was the first step on the path to democracy and
self-governance. Each country has different dates, however some noteworthy
ones are Ghana (1957), Nigeria (1960), Kenya (1963), and Zimbabwe (1980).

1960 Winds of Change Speech

In his well-known "Winds of Change" speech, British Prime Minister Harold
Macmillan expressed support for democratic transitions and acknowledged
that decolonization of Africa was inevitable on February 3, 1960, in Cape
Town, South Africa. This speech was made to encourage the transition
attempts to democratic governance within the region. While it was not a formal
treaty nor agreement, it acted as the symbol of Great Britain’s moving forward
from the colonisation that has had the most impact on the political climate of
the regions it affected, including and especially Africa.

May 25, 1963 Formation of The Organization of African Unity (OAU)

The OAU was established with the aim of promoting unity and solidarity among
African countries and accelerating the decolonization process. The OAU's
main objectives included safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity
of African states, promoting cooperation and solidarity among member states,
and defending the rights and interests of African peoples. The organisation
played a crucial role in supporting liberation movements in Southern Africa and
advocating for the rights of African nations in the international arena. In July
2002, the OAU was replaced by the AU.

1991 Multiparty Democracy in Zambia

After 27 years of one-party rule under President Kenneth Kaunda, Zambia had
its first multiparty elections in October 1991, marking the country's

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

independence. The Movement for Multiparty Democracy's (MMD) Frederick

Chiluba became successful.

1994 End of Apartheid in South Africa

On April 27, 1994, South Africa had its first democratic elections, bringing in a
new age of multiracial democracy and putting an end to apartheid. The first
black president of the nation was Nelson Mandela, the head of the African
National Congress (ANC).

July 9, 2002 Formation of the African Union

Following its takeover of the OAU, the AU focused on broader issues such
democratic governance, sustainable development, peace and security, and
economic integration. AU seeks to promote social and cultural advancement,
economic integration, environmental protection, democratic governance, and
peace and security across the continent.

2010 Constitutional Referendum in Kenya

Following a constitutional referendum on August 4, 2010, Kenya adopted a
new constitution with the goals of advancing democracy, decentralised
governance, and the defence of human rights. Significant changes were
brought about by the new constitution, which included an enhanced Bill of
Rights and the devolution of power.

2010-2012 Arab Spring Uprisings

A wave of demonstrations and revolutions hit many Arab nations, including
Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Syria, and Bahrain, starting in late 2010. These
movements called for democratic administration, political change, and an end
to authoritarian power, even though their results differed.

2011 Democratic Transition in Tunisia

On January 14, 2011, Tunisia's long-time ruler Zine El Abidine Ben Ali left the
nation following widespread protests. A new constitution was adopted in 2014
after more democratic elections resulted in the installation of a transitional
administration.

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

2015 Elections in Nigeria

Nigeria's first democratic handover of power from one civilian government to
another since independence occurred during the country's presidential
elections in March 2015. The incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan of the
People's Democratic Party (PDP) was defeated by Muhammadu Buhari, a
representative of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

2018-2019 Ethiopian Political Reforms

After months of demonstrations against the ruling Ethiopian People's
Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF), Abiy Ahmed took office as prime
minister of Ethiopia in April 2018. Significant political reforms were carried out
by the Abiy administration, including the opening of the media to criticism, the
liberation of political prisoners, and peace negotiations with neighbouring
Eritrea.

2018-2019 Sudanese Revolution

The massive protests that started in December 2018 spread throughout Sudan
and resulted in Omar al-Bashir's removal from office in April 2019. After taking
over initially, the Transitional Military Council (TMC) came to a deal with
opposing civilian parties to share power, which allowed for the final transition to
civilian governance.

Relevant International Documents

● African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, 30th January 2007
[Link]
● UNDP International Forum on Pathways to Democratic Transitions in Cairo, Egypt,
5-6th June 2011
[Link]
Report-WEB_FINAL.pdf
● Forum on SOCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY IN A CHANGING REGION, ACTORS AND
MECHANISMS. Deliberations of Arab Governance Week: November 26-29 2012.

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

[Link]

Past Attempts to Resolve the Issue

The ICCPR is a significant international agreement that safeguards civil and political
rights. It was adopted in 1966 and went into effect in 1976. It contributes to the framework for
democratic governance by highlighting the rights to self-determination, free and fair elections,
and participation in the political [Link] 2007 African Union charter places particular
emphasis on democracy, elections, and governance on the continent. It provides tenets and
directives for advancing democratic norms, such as holding frequent, free, and equitable
[Link] there have been many organisations formed and treaties signed on the issue
that are still in the process of supporting peaceful democratic governance globally, there also
have been attempts that did not yield effective results. Numerous endeavours aimed at
ensuring peaceful and inclusive democratic governance transitions have encountered
obstacles and, occasionally, have fallen short of their targeted goals. Numerous causes,
such as internal conflicts, geopolitical dynamics, and the complex nature of the transition
process, can be attached to these failures.
The early 2010s saw a wave of pro-democracy uprisings throughout the Arab world in
the Middle East and North African regions with the goal of implementing democratic
transitions and political reforms. The wave began with Egypt and Tunisia’s quick succession
in overthrowing their authoritarian governmental regimes thus inspiring other nations in the
region to carry out similar attempts. While some nations, like Tunisia did, saw early success,
others, like Syria and Libya, struggled to create stable democratic governance and faced
prolonged disputes and authoritarian backlash. Thus the Arab World had failed to make a
complete and collective transition to democratic governance and some disputes arising from
these attempts still have aftereffects to this day.
The uprising in Tunisia, named the Jasmine Revolution, consisted of protests against
poverty, governmental corruption, and political oppression. The protests aimed to force
President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali to step down from autocratic rule and succeeded in
January of 2011. The Arab Spring greatly resulted in prolonged conflicts, power vacuums,
and political instability in countries like Syria and Bahrain. The aftermath of the Arab Spring
underscored deep-seated socio-political divisions, sectarian tensions, and struggles for
power, hindering the consolidation of democratic governance. The Middle East is sheltering

21
Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

due to a resurgent Covid epidemic, ten years after the start of the Arab Spring protests.
Protests and most other activities have been put down in numerous nations because of this
threat. However, in the ten years following, the fundamental issues that led to the Arab
Spring—disenfranchisement, breached social contracts, and corruption—have only gotten
worse and will only get worse due to the economic effects of the coronavirus. It's possible
that the street movements that changed the Middle East in the early months of 2011 were a
one-time event that eventually wore out. More likely, they marked the start of an ongoing new
chapter in the history of the Arab world.

Solution Alternatives
One cannot stress how important a peaceful and inclusive transition is. There are
several instances throughout history where the lack of a peaceful handover of power has
resulted in lengthy hostilities and societal divisions. Achieving a successful democratic
transition requires putting in place systems for preventing conflict, resolving it, and promoting
national reconciliation.
A key component of the transition process is the emergence of civil society, which acts
as a platform for citizen voices, human rights advocates, and a check on government
responsibility. In order to establish a democratic culture and guarantee the inclusiveness of
the transition, non-governmental groups, community organisations, and independent media
must actively participate in the process. Encouraging open communication and national
reconciliation initiatives that involve all relevant parties, such as government delegates,
opposition parties, civil society organisations, racial and religious minorities, and
marginalised populations is key. Fostering trust and creating consensus on democratic
reforms require resolving past grievances and advancing social cohesion. MEDCs, especially
those still connected to African nations financially, and NGOs must make investments to
support the development of democratic institutions, such as human rights commissioners,
judiciaries, electoral commissions, and anti-corruption organisations . This would eliminate
the economic obstacles to an extent. However, they must be ensured to be impartial, open,
and efficient in defending the law, defending human rights, and fighting corruption. Programs
for technical assistance and capacity building can improve the efficacy and accountability of
institutions. Constitutional changes to solve issues with governance and advance democratic

22
Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

values should be implemented. This could entail updating antiquated or undemocratic

clauses, giving local governments more authority, bolstering checks and balances, and
making sure minority rights are protected. Participatory procedures are to be used in order to
involve the public in the change process, such as national debates or constitutional
assemblies. To raise public understanding of democratic ideas, rights, and obligations, civic
education initiatives could be put in place. This would hope to encourage political literacy,
civic involvement, and democratic principles in children from a young age through curriculum
development, community service projects, and media campaigns. Giving citizens the
knowledge and abilities they need improves their capacity to actively engage in democratic
[Link] order to address the root causes of violence and instability within a nation,
priority shall be given to conflict resolution and preventive techniques. Investment is to be
made in peacebuilding projects, mediation services, and early warning systems to keep
disputes from getting worse. NGOs and developed countries should also be called to invest
more directly in such peacekeeping results with treaties and agreements especially
mentioning such objectives.

Useful Links

● “African Union.” Home | African Union, 15 Dec. 2024, [Link]

● CIA Factbook Field Listing: Government type
[Link] (This may be a useful
tool to do further research on your delegation’s governmental system and other
government types)
● Deepening the Transition to Democratic Governance in Africa,
[Link]/sites/default/files/publications/deepening-the-transition-to-democratic-go
[Link].
● Democratic Governance (Peace Infrastructures .org)
[Link]
● “Fact Sheet: U.s.-Africa Partnership in Promoting Peace, Security, and Democratic
Governance.” The White House, The United States Government, 15 Dec. 2022,

23
Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
Student Officer: Ayşe Duman
Agenda Item: Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive transition to democratic governance

[Link]/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/12/15/fact-sheet-u-s-afri
ca-partnership-in-promoting-peace-security-and-democratic-governance/.
● Guidance Note of the UN Secretary-General on Democracy
[Link]
cracy
● United States Agency for International Development (USAID) [Link]
● United States Institute of Peace [Link]

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Committee Name: United Nations Office of Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPPA)
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