Mozambique

To build trust, reduce electoral violence and strengthen democratic processes in Mozambique – while amplifying the voices of marginalized groups, particularly women and youth – in politics and decision-making.

Through support and training, NIMD and our partner IMD equipped the women’s leagues with tools and strategies to successfully lobby for more women to be put forward as lead candidates in the 2023 municipal elections. This led to 24 women being nominated – an increase from 2018. Of these, six were elected.

Jointly implemented by IMD and its partners, Mozambique’s Peace Room works to safeguard the integrity and legitimacy of the electoral process. After the 2024 general elections, it trained political parties on electoral litigation, equipping them to address electoral irregularities through non-violent means. This has helped the parties establish a new set of transparent legal processes – a first step towards rebuilding trust in democracy and reducing the risk of future electoral violence.

NIMD and IMD regularly bring politicians from across party lines in dialogue. Together, they created and lobbied for a national women’s political agenda to promote the meaningful participation of women in politics. With support from across the political spectrum, and signed by various civic leaders, this agenda is a significant step towards amplifying women’s voices in politics and promoting cross-party collaboration to advance gender-inclusive policies.

Since emerging from a 16-year civil war in 1992, Mozambique has shown remarkable commitment to peace and democracy. The country established a multiparty political system, holds regular elections and signed a landmark peace agreement in 2019. But, like many countries with a history of conflict, Mozambique continues to grapple with political instability and tensions between political parties.

At the heart of many of these challenges lie the issues of inclusive politics and political freedoms. Barriers to political participation remain entrenched for many structurally excluded groups, including women and youth. These include limited freedom of expression within political parties and restrictions to women’s and youth leagues.

Coupled with this, the effective exercise of constitutional rights, such as free expression and the right to peaceful demonstration, remains a major challenge. Protests are frequently met with repressive responses, including the use of excessive force. Following Mozambique’s most recent general elections in October 2024, this reality became painfully clear. Amid electoral misconduct, contestation and allegations of fraud, over 100 people died in post-election protests.

Mozambique now stands at an important moment. In the months and years ahead, the country will need to work to rebuild trust in politics and strengthen its democratic foundations. By prioritizing inclusive politics, improving the transparency and robustness of electoral systems, and rebuilding trust between citizens and institutions, Mozambique can take significant steps towards a democracy where all voices – particularly those historically excluded – are heard. This will be essential for ensuring lasting peace, stability and a political system that works for everyone.

NIMD has been working in Mozambique since 2000. Our projects are implemented by our partner organization the Institute for Multiparty Democracy Mozambique (IMD), who is committed to supporting the implementation of the Peace Agreement and promoting the meaningful participation of women and young people in political processes.

We focus on building an inclusive political system and culture through interparty dialogue, training, and collaboration between politicians and civil society. This includes supporting transparent and peaceful elections, strengthening trust between political actors and amplifying the voices of marginalized groups.

We believe that more inclusive, transparent and representative politics is essential for a stable and democratic future – one where citizens feel heard, trust their institutions, and actively engage in shaping their country’s future.