The Regional Democracy, Governance and Rule of Law Program advances research and policy engagement on democratic resilience, accountable governance and institutional integrity across the Horn of Africa and Great Lakes regions. The programme analyses constitutional processes, electoral systems, judicial independence, anti-corruption frameworks and civic participation, with particular attention to how governance deficits contribute to instability and conflict.

Through policy briefs, expert dialogues, and strategic advisory outputs, the programme engages governments, civil society, and international partners to build the evidence base for democratic reform. The programme conducts field-based research and convenes high-level roundtables that bring together policymakers, scholars, and practitioners from across the region.

The programme seeks to promote context-sensitive reforms that reinforce public trust, uphold the rule of law, and strengthen democratic institutions as foundations for sustainable peace and development. In a region where governance deficits are a primary driver of conflict and fragility, evidence-based policy engagement is essential to long-term stability.