Democracy support lies at the heart of the European Union’s external action and development cooperation, reflecting its commitment to promoting participatory, accountable, and inclusive governance worldwide. In Zambia, the European Union has long supported democratic institutions, electoral processes, and civil society as key pillars for stability, peace, and sustainable development, particularly in the context of electoral cycles and democratic reforms.

PRO-DEM Zambia – Strengthening Democracy and Electoral Governance in Zambia is a new EU-funded initiative implemented by the European Centre for Electoral Support (ECES), in partnership with national and international stakeholders. The project is designed to contribute to the consolidation of democratic governance in Zambia in the lead-up to and aftermath of the 2026 General Elections, addressing long-standing institutional, legal, and societal challenges that affect electoral integrity, public trust, and inclusive participation.

The project aims to make democratic governance in Zambia more participatory, accountable, and inclusive by strengthening the capacity of key state institutions to deliver on their democratic mandates, while empowering civil society and citizens to effectively exercise oversight and engage in political and electoral processes. Particular attention is given to reinforcing the role of the Electoral Commission of Zambia, the National Assembly, the Judiciary, and other oversight institutions, alongside civil society organisations involved in electoral observation, advocacy, and civic engagement.

Building on lessons learned from previous electoral cycles and recommendations from European Union Election Observation and Follow-up Missions, PRO-DEM Zambia supports institutional reforms, electoral dispute resolution mechanisms, and conflict prevention strategies, while fostering dialogue and cooperation among electoral stakeholders. The project also places strong emphasis on inclusion, aiming to enhance the participation of women, youth, persons with disabilities, and other marginalised or hard-to-reach groups throughout the electoral cycle.

Civil society plays a central role in the project’s intervention logic. Through support to domestic election observation, including long-term monitoring, parallel vote tabulation, and evidence-based advocacy, PRO-DEM Zambia seeks to strengthen non-partisan oversight of electoral processes and promote transparency, accountability, and public confidence in elections. The project also contributes to civic and voter education, helping citizens make informed choices and engage constructively in democratic life beyond election day.