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Democracy and Governance in Benin
Benin is at a critical point in its efforts to build a pluralist democracy after
abandoning a Marxist-Leninist military regime 14 years ago. On one level, prospectives are positive.
Healthy GDP growth rates are expected to continue. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) figures show
GDP growth at 5% or better for 2000-2003. The projection for 2004 is 6.5%.. Benin continues to enjoy a
reputation as a democratic model for the region. Municipal elections in December 2002 marked a critical
step in decentralizing government and giving the Beninese people a greater voice in managing their
democracy. The country serves as a model for freedom of the press as evidenced by the proliferation of
radio stations and newspapers which offer scope for lively public debates on issues ranging from
education reform to decentralization to corruption. Notable progress has been achieved in health and
education over the last decade. Benin has experienced a reduction in infant mortality from 116 per 1,000
live births in 1996 to 89 in 2001. World Bank figures show that gross enrollment rates for primary school
have been steadily rising over the past decade and in 2001 stood at over 98%, significantly higher than
the average 78% for Sub-Saharan Africa.
Yet Benin faces formidable challenges. The economy is vulnerable to external economic shocks,
primarily due to its continued reliance on cotton as a source of income and foreign exchange. While
Benin qualified for the last payout from the IMF Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility, there were
notable weaknesses. Fiscal performance was off track. This was attributed to overruns in the election
budget and weak customs administration. These two factors brought the fiscal deficit to 0.4% of GDP.
Benin’s reputation in governance must be balanced against other considerations. Toward the end of FY
2003, speculation in the local and international press was mounting that there may be a serious effort put
forward to amend the constitution and remove the existing age limit which bars the current president from
standing for re-election. However, this effort is expected to meet with stiff resistance from opposition
parties and the independent press. Observers of the local political scene believe that an amendment is
not likely to be accepted. Nevertheless, the fact that this amendment is being seriously discussed does
confirm a growing awareness of political debate. Corruption is endemic throughout Benin's political
system and continues to pose a serious threat to long-term development efforts, despite rhetoric and
some steps by the government to combat the problem. The country was recently rocked by revelations
that numerous high-ranking officials may be implicated as accomplices in an international car theft
operation. The government faces formidable constraints to implementing key pillars in its poverty
reduction strategy. Donors have specifically noted constraints in management and implementation
capacity. They have also noted that priorities often focus on investments in infrastructure.
U.S. government interest in Benin lies in continuing to support democracy, economic growth, stability, and
security in the region. Benin is a supporter of the United States in the war on terrorism. Trade between
Benin and the United States is small but interest in U.S. products is growing. U.S. interest in promoting
trade with Benin is tied to increasing trade with Benin's neighbors, particularly Nigeria, Niger, and Burkina
Faso. Large amounts of the imports for these countries pass through the port of Cotonou. The U.S.
Government works to stimulate American investment in key sectors such as energy, telecommunications,
and transportation. Benin is eligible to benefit from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and
the U.S. Mission has been working to bring training and technical expertise that would enable Benin to
take better advantage of this benefit.
(Excerpted from the 2005 Congressional Budget Justification for Benin)
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