Centre for Elections and Democracy in Southern Africa (CEDSA)
The Centre for Elections and Democracy in Southern Africa (CEDSA) is a politically independent, non-governmental democracy, governance and electoral research organisation based in Harare, Zimbabwe. The major focus of the organisation is the promotion of electoral democracy in Zimbabwe and Southern Africa.[1]
Background
The Centre for Elections and Democracy in Southern Africa (CEDSA) is a politically independent, non-governmental democracy, governance and electoral research organisation based in Harare, Zimbabwe. The major focus of the organisation is the promotion of electoral democracy in Zimbabwe and Southern Africa.
This think tank serves to further public education through the production and dissemination of accessible commentary and scholarship. The organisation aims to provide a balanced and thoughtful perspective on topical issues, promoting open and rationale debate based on evidence rather than ideology. It seeks to instill into the public that it deals with, a more nuanced understanding of the concepts of democracy, human rights and electoral participation by going beyond the superficial definitions and meaning currently propagated by some civic bodies and political parties in the country.
The organisation has a sub regional focus, conducting and commissioning work in the following areas: Electoral studies; opinion polls and surveys, election observation in the region and analysis of electoral laws and how they are applied by countries in the region and beyond. Through its innovative programming, the organisation seeks to challenge conventional wisdom, stimulate debate and enlighten the public conversation.
The Centre’s Research Advisory Council comprised of renowned academics and professionals in a variety of disciplines guides the organisation’s research staff.
Vision
The vision of CEDSA is democratisation, empowerment, development and Human Rights in Southern Africa.
Mission Statement
Building Democracy for Empowerment and Free Electoral Participation
Values
In pursuit of its vision the organisation is guide by the following values:
- Democratic institutions and processes
- Equal Respect for first and second generation human rights
- Development and empowerment of citizenry
- Non Partisan election monitoring and observation
- Transparency and independence
- Gender Equality
- Non-Discrimination
Objectives
- Development of local understanding and appreciation of participatory democratic electoral processes
- Influence policy and legislation
- Well grounded research informing advocacy
- Making civil society democracy initiatives effective and non-partisan.
The most potent symbol of democracy is the involvement of the citizens in the free and fair election of representatives to govern them and the exercise of this freedom ought not be subjected to pressure from within or without the country. With this understanding, CEDSA, intends embark on programmes that empower citizens to understand their democratic rights in line with their local situations without undue pressure from local and external forces.
Key Person
Jealousy Mawarire is the Executive Director and founding trustee of CEDSA.
Address
No 10 Soden Avenue, Hillside, Harare, Zimbabwe
Contact
Phone: +263 4 747 545
