UNDP’s work in governance, peacebuilding, and sustainable development globally has supported these efforts, helping nations craft fundamental legal frameworks rooted in participation, inclusivity, and transparency. In The Gambia, UNDP brings crucial technical and legal expertise on topics such as human rights and constitutional design. Its capacity development efforts help local actors, from government bodies to civil society organizations, acquire the skills to navigate constitutional debates. Most importantly, UNDP emphasizes inclusive public engagement, ensuring that the conversation reaches communities throughout The Gambia. By collaborating with other UN entities, regional organizations, and partners like the European Union (EU), UNDP amplifies the impact of these initiatives.

The Gambia’s Responsive and Accountable Democratic Transition “EU-UNDP GREAT project” exemplifies our collective commitment, promoting extensive public dialogue and participation across diverse segments of society. Since 2024, UNDP support has reached over 200,000 Gambians, enhancing voice and participation in the constitution-making process. Through community forums, radio broadcasts, billboards, and in-person caravans, this campaign organized by civil society organizations, the National Council for Civic Education and the National Human Rights Commission has consistently emphasized one core message: the voice of every Gambian matters.  Alongside these public outreach campaigns, UNDP supported a nationally led conference convened by the National Human Rights Commission. This forum brought together representatives from political parties, civil society organizations, the National Assembly, and diverse religious communities to share their perspectives on the draft 2024 Constitution. The participants produced position papers reflecting the diversity in unity, which will inform the National Assembly's legislative review and actions. Throughout this process, UNDP maintained a facilitative role, respecting the principle that constitution-making must be led and owned by Gambians.

A constitution encodes a nation’s values, aspirations, and sense of identity. When the drafting process is inclusive and transparent, it fosters deep public trust and strengthens the nation’s social fabric. In The Gambia, a participatory constitution-making process could enrich democratic institutions and ensure that women, youth, and marginalized communities have a say in shaping the country’s future. UNDP’s emphasis on inclusivity and collaboration with national partners aims to secure an outcome that promotes greater stability, equity, and sustainable development. 

As The Gambia’s constitution-making journey continues, UNDP remains committed to supporting a process that is truly inclusive, nationally led, and responsive to local needs. By maintaining open dialogue, finding consensus on contentious issues, and embracing a unified vision for a stable and just society, the people of The Gambia can produce a constitution that reflects their collective aspirations. Constitution-making is about shaping a shared future, anchored in respect for human rights, mutual trust, and the belief that every citizen has a role in shaping the nation’s destiny. If The Gambia maintains this spirit of inclusivity and collaboration, the constitution will serve as a testament to the country’s democratic resilience and commitment to a peaceful and prosperous tomorrow.