Democracy Consolidation
Strengthening democratic institutions and inclusive participation
Our Programs
About the Programme
RISE's work on democracy consolidation has roots in our support for paralegal services and community advice offices in Malawi's democratic strengthening. Our programming demonstrates that political systems are most effective when they represent and respond to people's needs.
Building Inclusive Democracy
RISE builds coalitions across the political spectrum to improve the quality of inclusion and participation in political processes for all. We partner with smaller community actors and Human Rights Defenders to protect and uphold the rights of underrepresented groups.
Our Partners
- Young people
- People with disabilities
- Women
- LGBTIQ people
Key Focus Areas
- Community paralegal services
- Democratic strengthening
- Parliamentary capacity building
- Community advice offices
Community Paralegal Services
Our support for paralegal services and community advice offices forms the foundation of our democracy consolidation work. These services empower communities to understand and assert their rights within the democratic framework.
Parliamentary Engagement
We strengthen democratic institutions by:
- Supporting parliamentarians with evidence-based research
- Enhancing legislative oversight capabilities
- Building relationships between decision-makers and civil society
- Promoting transparent and accountable governance
Democratic Strengthening
RISE works to strengthen democracy in Malawi through comprehensive programs that address:
Institutional Capacity
Building the capacity of democratic institutions to effectively serve all citizens
Civic Education
Promoting understanding of democratic rights and responsibilities
Participatory Processes
Ensuring inclusive participation in democratic decision-making
Accountability Mechanisms
Supporting systems that hold leaders accountable to citizens
Our Approach
We take an intersectional approach to democracy consolidation, recognizing that effective political participation requires addressing multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination based on gender, disability, economic status, and other factors.
Message from the Director
"On Consolidating a Nascent Democracy in Malawi: Lessons and Motivations" — Democracy is not a destination we reach once and for all. It is a continuous process of learning, defending, and improving. At RISE, we recognize that defending democracy requires constant vigilance, innovation, and courage.
— Richard Yohane, Executive Director
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