In a subregional context marked by socio-political and security tensions, the SIPODI West Program of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung organized a regional seminar on July 10 and 11, 2025, in Dakar on the theme:
“The place of security policies in the electoral debate: what role for the media?” "
The event brought together journalists, researchers, communicators, and institutional actors to discuss media coverage of security issues during election periods.
A highly symbolic opening
Chaired by the Director of the SIPODI Program, Dr. Tobias Ruettershoff, alongside the President of the Network of African Journalists Specializing in Defense and Security Issues (REJA-DS), the opening ceremony highlighted the importance of constructive dialogue between the media, security experts, and political decision-makers.
Speakers emphasized the need to professionalize the handling of security information, particularly during election periods, which are often conducive to misinformation and tensions.
Election programs still too far removed from security issues
During the panels, participants noted the lack of content on security issues in political programs, particularly in West and Central Africa, despite the crucial challenges for regional stability. They highlighted the complexity of the subject for the media, the lack of specialized training, and the need to encourage candidates to integrate these issues more into their proposals.
Seasoned experts for an in-depth debate
Moderated by experts such as Dr. Bakary Sambe, Director of the Timbuktu Institute, the seminar provided valuable insights into professional practices, regulatory frameworks, and best practices on the continent.
Speakers emphasized the importance of journalistic ethics, fact-checking, and ongoing dialogue with reliable sources to better inform voters and stimulate an election debate focused on security, beyond the purely military dimension.
A constructive regional dynamic
Journalists from Côte d'Ivoire, Benin, Togo, the DRC, Guinea, and Senegal expressed the need for ongoing training, enhanced access to public information, and a framework for sustainable collaboration with defense and security forces.
The diversity of profiles—investigative journalists, editors, institutional communicators—enabled rich exchanges and concrete recommendations.
The long-term commitment of the SIPODI West program
This seminar is part of the SIPODI West program's ongoing efforts to support democratic governance and stability in West Africa. By creating these spaces for dialogue, the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung aims to promote transparent, accountable, and informed electoral processes.
Key recommendations
✔️ Strengthen journalists' capacities in the areas of security and election coverage;
✔️ Establish permanent frameworks for dialogue between the media and security institutions;
✔️ Integrate media and citizenship education into peace policies;
✔️ Promote collaboration between regulators, electoral authorities, and the media;
✔️ Promote good practices to prevent hate speech;
✔️ Raise awareness among political actors about security issues.
By contributing to a better understanding of security issues in electoral debates, the SIPODI West Program reaffirms its mission: to support the construction of a peaceful, secure, and media-responsible electoral space in West Africa.
