Peer Learning Mission to Burundi 2025

From 2 to 6 June 2025, a peer learning mission in collaboration with the Association of African Election Authorities (AAEA) and the African Union to Burundi for the legislative elections was deployed in the framework of the Pro-Electoral Integrity Project, funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. The mission brought together a group of Presidents, Commissioner and senior staff from the Electoral Commission of Chad, Gabon, Sao Tome & Princip, Central African Repubblic, Repubblic Congo and Democratic Repubblic of Congo as well as experts from ECES and other electoral stakeholders. This experience allowed them to share, compare and learn from eachother electoral systems.

The delegation engaged directly with the National Independent Electoral Commission of Burundi (Commission Electorale Nationale Indépendante - CENI) to learn about the electoral process and share their own experiences. The mission aimed to foster learning and sharing among members of various electoral commissions within the framework of the Pro-Electoral Integrity project.  The broader objective is to contribute to peace and security on the continent by strengthening the capacity of African Election Management Bodies (EMBs) to conduct credible, inclusive, and transparent elections—thereby helping prevent electoral conflicts and reinforcing public trust in democratic processes.

This initiative builds on the AAEA’s longstanding role as a forum for African EMBs to exchange expertise and uphold democratic standards. The mission not only strengthens bilateral learning between institutions but also highlights the importance of regional networks and continental cooperation.