M85m EU project to boost participatory democracy

The European Union has reiterated its commitment to a stable and participatory democracy in Lesotho through a €4 million (about M85 million) project funded under the Global Europe instrument. 

The Inclusive Lesotho project is designed to strengthen the nation’s democracy by modernisingelectoral systems, boosting the political representation of women and persons with disabilities, and re-engaging citizens through nationwide civic education to ensure every Mosotho has a meaningful voice in the 2027/2028 elections.

Running until 2028, this initiative aims to address the priority recommendations of the 2022 EU Election Observation Mission by tackling structural barriers such as low voter turnout, an outdated voter registry, and the under-representation of women and persons with disabilities. 

Implemented in partnership with International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, United Nations Development Programme, and the Independent Electoral Commission, the project aligns with Lesotho’s National Strategic Development Plan II to enhance electoral integrity, modernise registration systems, and foster transparent campaign financing. 

In a statement, the EU noted that by integrating civic education into school curricula and supporting targeted outreach to underserved communities, Inclusive Lesotho aims to restore public trust and build a more resilient, inclusive democratic system for all Basotho.