📋 Tender Overview
The progress made by Niger in its democratic process has been undermined by the change in political regime, exacerbating the challenges to citizen participation. Women and young people make up more than 60% of the population but are only minimally involved in decision-making processes. Switzerland aims to support them locally so they can become more engaged and active participants in public affairs.
Country/region Topic Period Budget
Niger
Governance
Decentralisation
Democratic participation and civil society
Elections
01.10.2025 - 31.12.2028
CHF 4’865’000
The project in brief
Background The 2023 coup d'état marked a rupture in the political system, which, despite its shortcomings, had been democratic. In its wake, calls for a complete overhaul of the state proliferated, accompanied by controversial reforms. Democratic institutions, including the National Assembly, political parties, and decentralized councils, were dissolved. The political system is changing, excluding certain populations and polarizing decision-making. Civil society is divided and has often abdicated its role, thus weakening it. Civic rights are restricted, reducing public participation. Women and youth, as informal leaders, political actors, and members of civil society, are key players who need to be empowered to influence decisions and sustainably improve their living conditions.
Objectives Promote the active participation of women and youth in civic and political spaces in order to improve the delivery of public services that meet their needs in a peaceful social climate.
Target groups
Young people (girls and boys aged 18-35) and women in their communities
Women's and youth civil society organizations
Research centers and universities in Niger, Lasdel, Geo A, Center for Reflection on Democracy, Center of Excellence for Governance in Africa
National institutions: Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Refoundation, Advisory Council for Refoundation, Ministry of Youth, Ministry for the Promotion of Women, Observatory for the Promotion of Gender, High Commission for the Modernization of the State, Territorial Authorities
Medium-term outcomes
Effect 1 : The community participation of women and young people in the decision-making process and the delivery of quality public services is effective;
Effect 2 : The political and civic engagement of young people (girls and boys) and women in their diversity is strengthened;
Effect 3 : Governance efforts promoting a more stable and inclusive political environment are supported;
Effect 4 : Evidence on the dynamics of participation of women and youth is produced and supports the advocacy for greater political and civic participation.
Results Expected results:
250 organized and equipped community dialogue spaces
2500 women and young people at the community level are empowered to positively influence public life
45 civil society organizations are strengthening their advocacy and lobbying efforts.
Five major
