FROM THE SECRETARY-GENERAL

The wave of democracy in the late 1980s and early 1990s impacted no region perhaps more dramatically than sub-Saharan Africa. A decade later, a number of countries continue their long journey to translate democracy from theory into practice. For these countries, the challenge is twofold: to institutionalize democracy by establishing viable institutions that can uphold and defend democracy; and to foster a culture of democracy so that norms such as trust, tolerance and accommodation become accepted practices.

In this newsletter we focus on democracy in sub-Saharan Africa, examine the issues central to democratic consolidation, and highlight International IDEA's initiatives to promote sustainable democracy in the region.

The challenge of building democracy in Southern Africa was the theme of a major regional conference we organized in Botswana in May 2000, together with the Government of Botswana and the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) Parliamentary and Election Fora. The objective was to come up with options, choices and examples of good democratic practice, both from within the region and without, on three main topics: elections, political parties, and women's representation.

Discussions resulted in a substantial agenda for democracy with certain clear priorities. First, political parties, one of the most important institutions for democracy, must achieve a more secure footing. The need is all the more urgent in a region long dominated by single parties. The challenges, while not specific only to sub-Saharan Africa, include: ensuring that parties are truly representative of people's concerns; identifying fair and enforceable rules for funding; articulating clear alternative policies in the case of opposition parties; ensuring internal democracy within political parties; and making sure that alternation of power occurs peacefully.

An equally important priority must be to ensure that elections are transparent, well-administered and cost-effective. The establishment of independent electoral commissions is one step in the right direction, but more needs to be done to strengthen electoral management bodies, make sure that they are independent, accountable and efficient, and that they have the financial and human resources to carry out their tasks effectively. There is also a need to examine electoral systems and their relevance to a country's specific needs and concerns.

Finally, democracy is not just about institutions; it is as much about the human mind and spirit. For democracy to take firm root, a culture of trust, confidence and tolerance must be nurtured. Part of this shift in attitudes must involve making sure that women are able to take their rightful role in society and politics. This is not simply a women's issue or a concern for special interests. It is fundamental to our perception of democracy itself, as it reflects the experiences and representation we want our democracy to embody.

As President of Botswana Festus Mogae said in his inaugural address, "The genie of democracy is out of the bottle in Africa." Our challenge, therefore, is clear: to help consolidate the institutions and strengthen the culture of democracy to ensure that democracy becomes routinized in the region's social and institutional life.

    Bengt Säve-Söderbergh
    Secretary-General