The WYDE Civic Engagement project complements its activities at global and regional levels with ad-hoc country-level support. The overall aim of the Quick-Impact Actions (QIAS) is to provide urgent and strategic support to local actors working on youth political inclusion and participation, always upon request of the relevant EU Delegation.
Based on the specific objectives determined in close cooperation with EUDs, the most appropriate local actor(s) are identified and selected to implement the QIAs. This is done either through a direct technical intervention or an action grant, awarded directly or through a restrictive call for proposals, depending on the urgency of the need, the political calendar, and the potential to generate positive changes in youth participation.
Background
São Tomé and Príncipe experienced low voter turnout of 65% in 2022, with many votes cast as invalid. These concerning numbers highlight the issues of voter education and engagement, especially among women and youth and first-time voters. As a developing island country with the majority of the population under the age of 25, the risk is that young people will not have a voice in their future. The serious underrepresentation of women and youth in São Tomé and Príncipe’s democratic processes is a key challenge for the island country, often due to educational and cultural barriers. At the same time, educational institutions and the media do not provide sufficient resources to ameliorate the situation. Combined with the limited efforts of the government, this underscores the urgent need for a solution.
Project Overview
The “Our Voice, Our Future: Democracy in Action” project aims to address these challenges by fostering voter education and promoting inclusive participation mechanisms in democratic processes. The initiative focuses on youth and women, emphasising the critical role they play in shaping the country’s future. Through a series of educational programmes delivered via radio, TV, social media, community forums, and workshops, the goal is to empower these groups to become informed and active citizens.
Project Outcomes
“Our Voice, Our Future: Democracy in Action” campaign aims to create a more informed, active, and representative electorate in São Tomé and Príncipe through:
- Enhancing understanding of electoral procedures and civic rights
- Focusing on education and participation
- Promoting significant involvement of young and female candidates in elected positions
- Comprehensive and long-term voter and civic education activities
- Enhancing the population’s understanding of Civic Rights and Electoral Procedures
As part of these activities, community forums will be held through civil society organisations with help from local radio stations regarding changes in laws, regulations, procedures, and decisions. This will be accomplished through workshops, informational campaigns, and specialised forums to teach people how to vote. The ultimate goal of the project will be to improve the electoral process and help build ongoing civic participation and leadership skills for the future.
More About the Organisation
Somos Todos Primos Ltd is a communications and digital media company established in 2011. It operates RSTP – Rádio Somos Todos Primos, the first visual radio station in São Tomé and Príncipe. RSTP produces daily news and reports about social issues in the country, promotes debate, and encourages social inclusion and democracy with a focus on women and youth.
