Statement

The African Committee meeting provided the opportunity to address the state of democracy across the continent, focusing on both the challenges and opportunities facing Africa in its pursuit of secure and free societies. Several sessions and field visits highlighted the powerful potential of youth activism in fostering democratic governance and societal stability, emphasizing the complex factors shaping Africa's political landscape today.

The decline of democracy in Africa has become a critical concern, driven by a combination of persistent conflict, climate challenges, political violence, and the erosion of civil liberties. These issues have stifled political progress, threatened peace and stability, and undermined the fundamental rights of citizens.

The continuous coups in Sudan and Burkina Faso have upended democratic transitions and plunged the nations into further turmoil. The ongoing conflicts in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have severely hampered democratic governance. While in Kenya and Uganda, the push for political reforms and respect for human rights remains fraught with challenges such as electoral disputes, political repression, and restrictions on free speech.

Factors contributing to this decline include weak institutions, external interference, poor governance, and limited economic opportunities, compounded by the severe impact of climate change on Africa’s vulnerable communities. The worsening climate crisis exacerbates resource scarcity, fuels land and water conflicts, and displaces populations, further destabilizing fragile democracies.

In response, the International Union of Socialist Youth (IUSY) calls for the following measures:

• Condemnation of terrorism and coups
  The African Committee firmly denounces the spread of terrorism, which destabilizes political systems and frequently results in military coups, impeding democratic progress and regional stability. Breaking isolation, strengthening institutions, and promoting development initiatives are key to reducing tensions and preventing future crises.

• Support for sovereignty and non-interference
  IUSY stresses the need for African nations to safeguard their sovereignty and resist external interference in their internal affairs. Stability and development across the continent must be supported by diplomatic efforts and conflict resolution that prioritize peace and dialogue.

• Addressing neighbourhood conflicts
  IUSY highlights the importance of resolving regional conflicts through genuine diplomacy and cooperative engagement, avoiding undue influence from lobbies or special interests that may not prioritize long-term peace and stability.

• Climate justice for Africa
  IUSY emphasizes the need for effective negotiation to achieve a just transition, recognizing that Africa, despite being one of the least polluting continents, bears the brunt of climate change impacts. Ensuring that vulnerable populations and affected regions are treated equitably in adaptation and mitigation efforts is essential for fostering sustainable and inclusive development. Africa’s vast renewable energy resources present a tremendous opportunity for transformative investment and long-term sustainable growth.

• Youth empowerment for democratic stability
  IUSY emphasizes empowering youth to take political initiative, uphold democratic principles, maintain institutional stability, and facilitate peaceful power transitions. This should be done through intra-African cooperation that resists foreign exploitation and strengthens local democratic institutions.

• International solidarity
  IUSY calls for global solidarity to support African nations in addressing the complex challenges they face. This solidarity should be grounded in mutual respect, equitable partnerships, and a shared commitment to democratic progress and human rights.

IUSY stands firmly against human rights violations across Africa and calls for cohesive and sustainable strategies to address these interconnected challenges, paving the way for a more democratic and resilient continent.