Democratic Aspirations in Africa: What Popular Surveys Reveal

Previous rounds of Afrobarometer data have suggested that the majority of Africans prefer democracy to any other form of government. In sharp contrast to this high popular demand, the removal of term limits, shrinking space for civil society, human rights violations, as well as electoral violence and misconduct continue to threaten democracy across the continent. The event seeks to address these issues, and to provide a forum for dialogue on current political as well as human rights developments, in the context of the democratic attitudes of people in sub-Saharan Africa. Professor Emanuel Gyimah-Boadi, Executive Director of Afrobarometer – a pan-African research network conducting public surveys on democracy, governance, and related issues – will divulge the latest survey data on African views on democracy. Dr. Bärbel Kofler, Federal Government Commissioner for Human Rights Policy and Humanitarian Aid, and Dr. Charlotte Heyl, GIGA Institute for African Affairs, will discuss the implications of current developments for the future of human rights protection and democratic governance in sub-Saharan Africa. We warmly invite you to engage in this panel discussion with us. Following the event, there will be an opportunity for further exchange with the panellists during a reception. 5:30 p.m. – 5:35 p.m.

Welcome and Introduction: Professor Matthias Basedau

5:35 p.m. – 5:55 p.m.

Keynote Address: Professor Emanuel Gyimah-Boadi

5:55 p.m. – 6:05 p.m.

Comment: Dr. Bärbel Kofler

6:05 p.m. –7:00 p.m.

Panel Discussion: Professor Emanuel Gyimah-Boadi Dr. Charlotte Heyl Dr. Bärbel Kofler Moderation: Dr. Julia Grauvogel

7:00 p.m. –8:00 p.m.

Reception