The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has convened a high-level engagement with senior media professionals, online influencers, bloggers and representatives of civil society organisations in the Republic of Benin as part of efforts to promote a peaceful and inclusive electoral process ahead of the country’s 2026 presidential election.
The meeting was organised by the Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS) of the ECOWAS Commission and held from March 3 to March 6, 2026, at the Azalai Hotel in Cotonou.
According to the regional body, the engagement aims to strengthen collaboration between the media and civil society actors in fostering credible democratic processes and preventing misinformation in the lead-up to the presidential poll scheduled for April 12, 2026.
Participants discussed the role of responsible journalism, digital communication, and civic engagement in promoting transparency, peace and public trust during the electoral period.
ECOWAS said the initiative forms part of its broader commitment to supporting democratic governance, peace and stability across West Africa.