Botswana

Since its independence in 1966, Botswana has made great economic and social progress under stable political conditions. However, development has slowed down in the last 15 years. Growing social inequality, high unemployment and stagnating poverty are increasing challenges. The political system created in 1966 is in need of reform. Although the institutional structures of a democracy such as the rule of law, a multi-party system and regular elections are in place and civil rights are enshrined in the constitution and laws, these institutions have not functioned fully in recent years. The economy is still one-sidedly focussed on mining, while attempts at economic diversification have failed. The environmental problems in Botswana's sensitive ecosystem are increasing.

Since the first change of government in 2024, the country has experienced a new dynamic. The former opposition is now responsible for solving the country's numerous problems and leading the country on a sustainable development path. Involving citizens in this reform process is of central importance. However, after years of centralisation, a culture of active citizen participation must first develop. 

The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) has been active in Botswana since 1973 and has endeavoured in various projects to strengthen parliament vis-à-vis the executive, to strengthen civil society positions, to increase the active participation of young people in political processes and to support trade unions in shaping the socio-political debate. The political participation of women is a central focus of the work. The current focus of the project work is on the political involvement of citizens in decision-making and opinion-forming processes. The direct target groups are decision-makers and office-holders as well as multipliers in civil society, politics and trade unions.

Learn more about our work in Botswana on the project's website.