Support to Inclusive Dialogue and Participation of Women and Youth during the Electoral Processes in South Sudan 2024

Introduction

The project, a collaboration between the African Interparty Dialogue Network (AIPDN), Gender Empowerment for South Sudan Organization (GESSO), the Intergovernmental Authority on Development/Mediating Support Unit (IGAD/MSU), and National Democratic Institute (NDI) aims to empower South Sudan’s electoral and peace processes. As we approach the critical 2024 elections, our objective is to develop comprehensive training manuals focused on mediation, reconciliation, counseling, and civic education. These manuals will serve as foundational tools to enhance inter-youth and intergenerational dialogue, as well as to increase women’s participation, ensuring a more inclusive and representative democratic process.

Project Overview

The purpose of the two-day workshop to be held 25^th – 26^th April 2024, will be to bring together the key stakeholders namely the youth political and civil society leaders, IGAD Mission to South Sudan, Ceasefire & Transitional Security Arrangements, Monitoring & Verification Mechanism (CTSMVM), Members of Parliament (Youth and Women caucus).

The project will have the following key phases;

1. Inception Workshop
2. Development of the training manual which will cover the following: enhancing dialogue processes, mediation, reconciliation, counseling and civic education that will be translated into local languages.
3. Training of Trainers Training
4. Step down trainings to the lowest administrative units, to cover the State, Payam and Bomas levels reaching out to 30,000 people.

Rationale

South Sudan, a nation in the process of rebuilding and consolidating its democratic institutions, is approaching a crucial electoral period in 2024. The significance of this period cannot be overstated, as it represents a pivotal moment for the country’s political landscape. Engaging the youth and women in this electoral process is not only a matter of inclusivity, but also a strategic imperative for fostering sustainable democratic development.

South Sudan is characterized by a significant youth demographic, with 70% of the population under the age of 30. Harnessing the potential of this demographic is essential for ensuring a representative and vibrant democratic process. However, this potential is often underutilized due to challenges such as limited access to information, inadequate civic education, prejudice and insufficient platforms for youth participation.

Recognizing the importance of intergenerational dialogue, the project acknowledges the wisdom and experience that older generations bring to the political discourse. Simultaneously, it underscores the significance of women’s active involvement, as their perspectives are integral to building an inclusive and representative democratic society. Inclusivity, in the context of age and gender, is fundamental for a robust and holistic democratic process.

Beyond the electoral period, the project aims to leave a lasting legacy by empowering the youth and women as agents of positive change in their communities. Through capacity-building initiatives, the project seeks to equip young leaders with the skills necessary for community development, conflict resolution, and sustained civic engagement.

By bringing together diverse stakeholders, including youth political and civil society leaders, IGAD, CTSMVM, and parliamentarians, the project fosters collaborative partnerships, laying the foundation for sustained cooperation. Through interactive discussions and knowledge exchange, the project facilitates capacity building and enhances the overall quality and relevance of Training Manuals.

Objective

The project aims to create a more inclusive, dynamic, and representative democratic process in South Sudan, fostering collaboration across generations and empowering women and youth as vital contributors to the nation’s political landscape.

Specific Objectives

• To define the Terms of Reference for The Training Manual including key topics/modules, methodology, stakeholder roles, and timelines.
• To develop a Framework for the Translation of the material to 11 languages.

Output:

• Comprehensive Terms of Reference (ToR) for the development of the Training Manual, outlining its scope, objectives, target audience, and expected deliverables.
• A framework for the translation of the Training Manual into  the local languages, including the process, resources required, and quality control measures.
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Expected Outcomes:

• Fostering a strengthened understanding and buy-in among stakeholders, promoting a shared vision and commitment towards the goal of the project.
• Strengthening collaborative partnerships and relationships between diverse stakeholders, such as youth political and civil society leaders, IGAD, CTSMVM, and parliamentarians, laying the foundation for sustained cooperation.
• Facilitating capacity building and knowledge exchange through interactive discussions and sharing of experiences, best practices, and lessons learned, thereby enhancing the overall quality and relevance of the Training Manual.

Project Activities

1. Inception Workshop
2. Panel discussion/roundtable with stakeholders to gather insights on the ToR Training Manual and framework for the translation to the 11 local languages
3. Plenary session to consolidate and prioritize identified topics, approach, timeline, action plan, stakeholder roles, and responsibilities.

Conclusion

The project recognizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to fostering inclusivity and collaboration in South Sudan electoral and peace processes. Through coming up with a training manual framework the project aims to promote intergenerational understanding, enhance women’s participation, and encourage constructive engagement among stakeholders. By bringing together diverse perspectives and stakeholders, the project aspires to create a more vibrant, representative, and sustainable democratic landscape in South Sudan, leaving a lasting impact on both the present and future generations.

 PROVISIONAL BUDGET SUMMARY