Strengthened
Foundations for Democratic Governance
LOP
funding (2004-2009): $46.4 million
Problem Statement: Although the 2007 elections ushered in the third successive elected civilian administration, many roadblocks to strengthened democracy still remain. Political elites are still entrenched in political structures, excluding the majority of citizens from meaningful political participation. Opportunities are limited not only by the interests of elites, but by age, sex, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Violent conflict, triggered by communal, ethnic, religious or resource issues, poses a major threat to democracy in Nigeria . Systemic corruption is a key governance issue that has pervaded the daily lives of Nigerians, who believe that only unemployment is a bigger challenge to their future. Civil society still lacks both the capacity and the resources it needs to truly engage with government and advocate for change. And, Government institutions have not established partnerships with citizens or private sector actors, and they lack capacity to carry out their own mandates.
Program Goals: GJD will build the
capacity of civil society and legislative bodies, strengthen the
judicial processes, support efforts to respond to and manage conflict,
and address the need for professionalism and transparency in the
future elections. This can be achieved through a combined catalytic
and integrated approach to improving civil society advocacy to build
constituencies for targeted public policy reforms; improving processes
for policy and legislative reforms within selected government institutions;
supporting transparent and credible elections; and strengthening
the capacity of both civil society and government for conflict mitigation
and management.
Expected Results:
- Increased capacity of 120 civil society organizations in advocacy and anti-corruption;
- 450 at-risk youth provided with income-generating skills;
- 200 victims of trafficking in persons rehabilitated and reintegrated into society;
- free and fair elections at national, state and local levels with full participation of Nigerian voters;
- 250 elected legislators and 400 permanent legislative staff
trained to more effectively carry out their responsibilities.
Activities:
- Conflict Mitigation and Management (CALM)
- Advocacy Awareness and Civic Empowerment (ADVANCE)
- Elections Assistance and Support (CEPPS)
- Trafficking in Persons Initiative (TIP)
- National Assembly Strengthening and Support (NAS)
- Local Governance/Decentralization project
Partnerships: None
as yet, although future possibilities exist for Shell and Chevron
alliances, particularly in the area of conflict resolution.
Briefers
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