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Tag: Democracy

Kenya’s constitution promises equality for women, but as Brian Dan Migowe, 24, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Kenya explains, there are still hurdles to women’s participation and leadership. As the independence curtains opened to usher in a new day, the 12th of December 1963 became a significant day for the epitome of the Kenyan struggles for independence. …

“The voice for gender-inclusive policy” Read More »

As Canadians head to the polls in a federal election, Alvin Ma, 24, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Canada, looks at the role of partisan campaign tactics. “I usually hate queues, but this is the only time I don’t mind lining up.” This quote from the person standing next to me in line reflects the sentiment of …

“Partisan politics and party loyalty” Read More »

Elections are a time to reflect on democracy, writes Jonathan Ugiagbe, 30, a Correspondent from Benin in Nigeria, who argues that Nigeria’s democracy needs nurturing by leaders and the people alike. For any nation, an election period is a time for renewal and also for reflection. After a long spell of authoritarian rule, democracy came …

“Nigeria – who cares for its needs?” Read More »

In this guest contribution, Ajibola Adigun of Nigeria outlines concerns about legislation threatening freedom of the media, an institution that has been described as the guardian of democratic rights.  In a desperate attempt to avoid criticism, members of the Kenyan Parliament have resorted to attacking the press. Kenyan journalists are being forced to endure costly …

“Journalism under attack in Kenya” Read More »

A more systemic approach is needed to entrench citizen engagement in democratic governance, writes Christine Shahbenderian, 23, a Correspondent from Nicosia in Cyprus, who argues that it is high time for us to do democracy differently.  “[The] key characteristic of democracy is the continuing responsiveness of the government to the preferences of its citizens, considered …

“Reinventing democracy in the digital era” Read More »

“Young people have a role to play in ensuring good governance by keeping watch on all branches of the State,” writes Angelique Pouponneau, 25, a Correspondent from the Seychelles. She explores the idea that knowledge of the Constitution can help young people guide the direction of their respective countries. As a symbol of unity, in …

“How well do you know your Constitution?” Read More »

The media says proposed amalgamation will strengthen public broadcasting, but Hsin-Yi Lo, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Melbourne, Australia, argues there are severe implications for democracy when media ownership is concentrated and diversity is limited. In late February, Mark Scott of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation questioned if Australia really needs two public broadcasters. He contests there isn’t …

“Proposed merger threatens media diversity” Read More »

Corruption is robbing the African economy and hurting social development, but Omeye Kenechukwu, 20, a Correspondent from Nigeria, argues that politicians, banks and civic action can change attitudes and practices to eradicate the problem. Corruption is a social problem in Africa that has eaten deep inside the minds of Africans. It manifests through fraud, embezzlement, and misappropriation of public …

“Corruption creates agony for Africa” Read More »

On 29th May, 2015, it seemed a messiah had come to fulfil the promise of the All Progressive Congress, which was “Change”, writes Omeye Kenechukwu, 20, a Correspondent from Nigeria, who examines the past year of government and events. Corruption has eaten deep to the heart and mind of Nigerians, as the oil-rich country seems unable to boost …

“A year of sorrow or of positive change?” Read More »

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