Project Description
Since 2013 Democracy International has promoted an inclusive peace process, accountability, and national cohesion in South Sudan through its Systems to Uphold the Credibility and Constitutionality of Elections in South Sudan (SUCCESS) program, funded by USAID. DI leads the program in partnership with Creative Associates International, the Public International Law and Policy Group (PILPG), and the State University of New York Center for International Development (SUNY-CID).
Supporting Peace and Transitional Justice
SUCCESS is working to promote a more peaceful, democratic South Sudan by making information about the August 2015 peace agreement accessible to citizens. To enhance the international community’s peacebuilding efforts, DI teams are working throughout the country to share the contents and structure of this peace agreement citizens and members of South Sudan’s nascent civil society, including faith-based and traditional leaders, to help them support the implementation process. DI is also raising awareness and mobilizing support for the peace agreement in remote regions, which often lack access to media. In addition, DI has successfully developed Civic Engagement Centers around the country through which it is providing civil society with access to information and a safe space to meet, collaborate, and push for peace.
Assisting Civil Society and Fostering Civic Education
SUCCESS also supports the advocacy efforts of civil society partners working on solutions to address the economic crisis, strengthen local government communication, empower women, and create a network of CSOs to amplify other advocacy initiatives throughout the country. SUCCESS is launching a comprehensive, nationwide civic education campaign to support citizens and civil society organizations to develop a stronger understanding of the importance of civic engagement and advocacy at the grassroots. From Yambio to Wao, DI is preparing to support CSOs to advocate for issues that the citizens themselves care about most, including good governance, stability, and public services.
Strengthening Capacity through Organizational Development
To ensure the program leaves a lasting impact on the civil society landscape in South Sudan, SUCCESS is committed to strengthening the capacity and internal structures of partner organizations. SUCCESS works with CSOs to analyze capacity gaps, draft capacity building plans, and provide tailored technical assistance.