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Democracy and Governance in Senegal
Senegal is a democratic and moderate Muslim nation committed to
fighting terrorism. One of the most stable countries in an unstable region, and a model of religious and
ethnic tolerance, it plays a key role in conflict resolution in West Africa and beyond. A founder of the New
Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), the country is an advocate for private sector-led growth
and trade as the essential engines of Africa’s economic growth. Senegal is one of the few African and
Muslim countries ranked as free by Freedom House. More than ten active political parties, a vibrant civil
society with a right to protest, a capacity to organize and administer free and transparent elections, an
independent and diversified media, and the recent appointment of a human rights ombudsman in the
President’s office are evidence of Senegal's democracy.
It is in the US national interest to assist Senegal to enhance the productivity of its people and, in so doing,
create jobs for unemployed youth, improve access to education and health care and further
institutionalize democracy. If poverty is not visibly reduced, the country risks the sort of struggle with
demagoguery that has led to the destabilization of many of its neighbors. The pro-Western orientation
and moderate Islam practiced by 95% of the population could also be challenged by radical elements.
(Excerpted from the 2005 Congressional Budget Justification for Senegal)
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