The second edition of the Salon ivoirien de la démocratie et de l’engagement (Side 2026) is set to take place from November 26 to 28, 2026, at the Centre de recherche et d'action pour la paix (Cerap) in Cocody. The event aims to promote democratic engagement and participation in Côte d'Ivoire. Organizers hope to bring together institutions, civil society, media, and academics to discuss mechanisms for a more inclusive and participatory democracy.
The event's theme, "La démocratie au-delà des urnes," focuses on democratic governance beyond elections. Discussions will center on citizen participation, justice, public liberties, and accountability. According to Eric Dohou, commissaire général adjoint du Side and président de la Garde citoyenne, the initiative builds on five years of activities promoting citizen engagement. The goal is to address the information deficit among populations, particularly young people, about their rights and the functioning of institutions.
The conference program includes five panels over three days. The first day will focus on the relationship between justice and power, with discussions led by magistrates and representatives of the Ordre des avocats. The second day will address decentralization, local governance, and the role of civil society as a counter-power in democratic functioning. The final day will feature direct exchanges between presenters and attendees.
The event aims to promote a broader understanding of democracy, emphasizing daily citizen participation and electoral consultations. Organizers believe that young people and women play a crucial role in expanding democratic life. The event will also feature participation from local authorities, academics, researchers, and international organizations.
In a related development, Côte d'Ivoire, France, and Gabon have strengthened their military cooperation through a joint exercise in Yamoussoukro. The Grand Exercice Multinational (GEX 26) and operation "FANGHA" showcased the interoperability and preparedness of the three countries' armed forces in addressing security threats.
The military exercise, which began on November 8, 2026, included a demonstration of military capabilities, with fighter jets, tanks, and coordinated troop maneuvers. The event was presided over by General Lassina Doumbia, Chef d’état-major général des armées (CEMGA) de Côte d'Ivoire, alongside his counterparts from Gabon and France.
The joint exercise aimed to test the ability of the three countries to plan and conduct joint operations against contemporary security threats. This demonstration of military cooperation underscores the commitment of Côte d'Ivoire, France, and Gabon to regional security and stability.
Key points
- Côte d'Ivoire is set to host the second edition of the Salon ivoirien de la démocratie et de l’engagement to promote democratic engagement and participation.
