NGN members call for democracy that delivers beyond elections

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation has published a new survey exploring how members of its Now Generation Network (NGN) understand democracy and assess its practice across the African continent. 

Drawing on responses from 63 emerging leaders across 27 African countries, the survey examines perceptions of democracy, the challenges facing current democratic systems, and the reforms respondents believe are needed to strengthen governance. While participants continue to value the core principles of democracy, the findings suggest widespread dissatisfaction with how those principles are being implemented in practice. 

The survey finds that respondents see free and fair elections as an essential component of democracy, but argue they must be accompanied by stronger accountability, effective institutions, respect for the rule of law and tangible improvements in people's daily lives. Many also highlight the importance of community participation, inclusion and human dignity as integral elements of democratic governance. 

The report also explores respondents' views on the barriers to healthy democracy, with corruption, institutional weakness and economic inequality identified as the most significant obstacles. It concludes that young African leaders are not rejecting democracy itself, but calling for democratic systems that are more accountable, more responsive and better able to deliver for citizens.