“Although the world has witnessed recent democratic transitions with accompanying development gains, more effort is required to improve the governance trajectory for the much-needed development in our countries, particularly in Africa,’’ President Barrow said.
The President referred to The Gambia as the “Human Rights Capital”, saying that the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights is popularly called the Banjul Charter and that Banjul is home to the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights.
Referring to The Gambia’s democratic trajectory, President Barrow said the country mainstreamed democracy and human rights in her governance and political systems since 1965 and opted for multiparty democracy when the one-party design was fashionable in many countries.
“Our nation is solidifying its democratic foundations for development, peace and stability, and our experience demonstrates that democracy yields freedom and strengthens the rule of law,’’ he noted.
President Barrow added that The Gambia has ushered in economic freedom, private sector development and public-private partnerships and strengthened bilateral relations to attract development partners.
While stating that The Gambia will soon launch the National Development Plan (2023-2027), the President thanked the United States and other partners for supporting the country over the years.
The Second Summit on Democracy is co-hosted by the United States, Costa Rica, the Netherlands, the Republic of Korea and the Republic of Zambia.
