"The Paths to Democracy" - Our Future, Africa-Europe Dialogues

Following a historic New Africa-France Summit (NSAF), unprecedented in its format, international impact, and the perspectives it brought to light, the challenge was not to let these promising exchanges fade away, but rather to encourage them and amplify their impact on both continents. Initiated in 2022 by the French Institute, the "Our Future: Africa-Europe Dialogues" Regional Forums constitute a first element of response. This unique series of meetings organized on the African continent brings together figures from civil societies in Africa and Europe to debate horizontally and freely the major societal issues facing our two continents.

The first of nine stages of the "Our Future" adventure, the "Paths to Democracy" forum held in Johannesburg from October 7 to 8, 2022, provided an opportunity to engage in discussions around the challenges of participatory democracy and inclusive justice, as well as to understand the opportunities and dangers of digital technology for democracy. On this occasion, young people from both continents were able to put new forms of civic engagement into perspective. These issues will be addressed by prominent figures from Botswana, Mali, and South Africa during the Euro-Africa biennial.