Many democratic societies are spring up in Africa, offering models of reform that can be shared among emerging democracies. By supporting countries that have recently embarked on the democratic journey, AU Watch contributes to the protection of the values and principles of the African Union.

In line with AU Watch’s Strategic Plan 2020 2024, we aim to provide sustained support for key democratic consolidation in transitioning countries in Africa. In cooperation with civil society, we coordinate our support for democratic processes and institutions in key AU Member States that are committed to democratic reforms.

Areas of focus include:
• Building on work conducted as part of AU Watch Democracy and Security Dialogue, we will consider requests to establish Working Groups to ensure sustained, coordinated support for post-conflict countries, based on best-practices such as the appropriate sequencing and timing of assistance for elections.
• Inviting government officials and civil society representatives from transitioning countries to AU Watch meetings to give first-hand accounts of progress and challenges, and to articulate the specific type of support and engagement required.

• AU Watch meetings will periodically feature briefings by government or civil society leaders, or former leaders who have spearheaded particularly impactful democratic reforms in transitioning countries.

• To increase coordination and efficiency, UN agencies, regional organizations, civil society, or other subject-matter experts will be invited to be present and brief AU Watch during these meetings.