ActionAid study reveals Zambia has shrinking political space
A study conducted by ActionAid Zambia has revealed that political and civic space is shrinking in the country.
The study dubbed the ‘Impact of Shrinking Political and Civic Space on Operations of Human Rights Activists in Zambia’ done by McDonald Chipenzi and Lewis Mwape has highlighted numerous social challenges that have engulfed the nation.
Speaking during the launch of the study report in Lusaka, Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency Director for the Africa Department, Hans Magnusson has noted that many people are living in countries with authoritarian tendencies than in countries making Democratic progress.
Mr. Magnusson says it is for this reason that Sweden will be launching a drive for democracy program which will be reflected in all areas of its foreign policy.
He says the Swedish Embassy and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency have been tasked by the Swedish government and Parliament to enable people living in poverty and oppression to improve their lives.
He states this cannot be achieved without democracy, gender equality and human rights which create the conditions for sustainable development.
Mr. Magnusson says the shrinking democratic space has a bearing on all of SIDA’s activities in Africa and elsewhere.
He has disclosed that out of Sweden’s 15 African partner countries, the varieties of Democracy Index 2017 showed that the Democratic situation improved in 1 out of 3, while 1 out of three deteriorated and 1 out of 3 remain unchanged.
Speaking at the same event, Action Aid Zambia Board Chairperson Aretha Mwale says a free political and civic space is a critical catalyst for national development.
Mrs. Mwale says it is Action Aid Zambia’s desire to see a country where citizens have freedom to exercise their rights within the confines of the law.