Pre-Election Assessment Mission: Upcoming Côte d&#...

Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire - To demonstrate international support for a credible electoral process, the International Republican Institute (IRI), a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to promoting freedom and democracy worldwide, deployed a pre-election assessment mission to Côte d'Ivoire from September 22 to 26, 2025 ahead of the country's pivotal presidential election on October 25.

The mission, led by a delegation of experts who evaluated the electoral environment, provides a nonpartisan analysis of election preparedness, identifies key vulnerabilities, and offers practical recommendations to strengthen the process, promote peaceful participation, and build public confidence.

The 2025 presidential election represents a critical juncture for Côte d'Ivoire's democratic trajectory and political stability. It is taking place amid persistent ethnic and regional divisions, rising youth disenfranchisement, and growing threats of violent extremism in the north.

These challenges are compounded by Côte d'Ivoire's role as a regional economic power and the shifting dynamics posed by the growing influence of the Alliance des États du Sahel (AES). While many citizens are eager for a peaceful and transparent process, concerns remain over the potential for violence reminiscent of past elections. IRI's assessment underscores the significance of holding representative and credible elections in preserving national unity and fostering democratic governance. With the stakes high, the coming weeks offer a vital opportunity to reinforce public trust and ensure all communities - especially those in conflict-prone areas - have a meaningful voice in shaping their future.