International Partners Boost Accountability and Inclusion Ahead of Zimbabwe’s Next Electoral Cycle

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and its partners are intensifying support for electoral and governance institutions in Zimbabwe, focusing on strengthening accountability, the rule of law, and inclusive participation in the democratic process.

The efforts are guided by the UNDP's 2022-2026 Country Programme Document (CPD), which places "Transformative Governance" as a key pillar of support. The broader aim is to ensure all Zimbabweans, particularly the vulnerable and marginalized, benefit from more accountable institutions and systems for human rights and justice.

A dedicated initiative, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission Capacity Building Project Phase Two (ZIM-ECO), aims to enhance the effectiveness of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) and bolster the credibility of elections. The project supports ZEC in maintaining the biometric voter registration system and strengthening its capacity to be independent, impartial, and transparent.

A core objective is to increase citizen participation and inclusion in the electoral process. Specific targets in the UNDP's plan included an increase in voter turnout to 70% of eligible voters by 2023, with an emphasis on ensuring equal participation for females, males, and youth.

Furthermore, the ZIM-ECO project specifically works to enhance the participation of marginalized groups, including women, youth, and persons with disabilities. This includes promoting gender equality throughout the electoral cycle and supporting activities designed to prevent and mitigate violence against women in elections (VAWE). By strengthening democratic institutions and supporting platforms for citizen engagement, the partners seek to improve the social contract between the state and its people.