The need for free and transparent democratic systems that empower their citizens and create an environment for free and open markets to function is a fundamental requirement for sustainable development. In Zimbabwe, democracy and governance programs provide technical assistance and other support to strengthen capacity of non-governmental actors and/or citizens in order to develop and support democratic states and institutions that are responsive and accountable to citizens. These efforts also include promoting the rule of law and human rights, transparent and fair elections coupled with a competitive political process, a free and independent media, stronger civil society and greater citizen participation in government, and governance structures that are efficient, responsive, and accountable.
Program Summary:
At their core, current programs strive to support the restoration of effective democracy and responsible sovereignty and to create local capacity for fortification of civil society and paths to democratic governance. Programs include those that focus on the rule of law, protection of human rights, practice of good governance, enhanced citizen participation and consensus-building, expanded media communication, strengthened civil society and democratic institutions, and transparent elections preparations and monitoring.
Civil Society: USAID is supporting democratic civil society to strengthen its organizational capacity to express the interests of constituents. This allows civil society to more actively participate in the debate on the future directions of the country and on specific issues of importance to the constituencies of our local partners.
Democratic Institutions: Since 2002, USAID and its implementing partner have worked with the Zimbabwean Parliament to strengthen its capacity to be responsive to the people it serves, in enhancing public participation, and in empowering Parliament to hold itself and the Executive accountable. The program strengthened portfolio committees; provided needed technical assistance for the analysis of bills, statutory instruments, and the national budget; facilitated the organization of public hearings; and contributed to encouraging public participation. The fruits of this assistance were apparent during the past year in the form of the heightened assertiveness of committee chairpersons on both sides of the aisle, and in their increased willingness to challenge bills that transgress the principles of good law. In April 2007, without consulting the Members of Parliament, the Speaker advised USAID that further cooperation was no longer desired. Since that time, assistance has shifted toward helping civil society interface with the Parliament.
Elections Assistance: USAID is supporting the Zimbabwean Election Support Network in its efforts to ensure transparency in the electoral process for the upcoming 2008 elections.