LocationsThe Deepening Democracy Project (DDP) supports Zambia to consolidate democracy by strengthening electoral institutions, processes and participation ahead of the 2026 general elections. Implemented by UNDP in close partnership with the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), government institutions and civil society, the project promotes inclusive political participation, credible electoral processes, and peaceful management of electoral disputes and tensions.
Building on lessons from UNDP’s previous electoral support, including the “Democracy Strengthening in Zambia” (DSZ) project for the 2021 elections, DDP adopts a full electoral cycle approach by supporting reforms, capacity development and conflict prevention before, during and after the polls.
Why This Project Matters
Zambia has a long record of peaceful transfers of power and strong public support for democracy. Yet the country continues to face important challenges:
- Rising poverty and inequality, especially in rural areas
- Political polarization and emerging electoral violence
- Underrepresentation of women, youth and persons with disabilities in elected office
- Concerns around the independence, capacity and resourcing of key electoral institutions
- Gaps and inconsistencies in the electoral legal and policy framework
- Increasing disinformation, hate speech and information pollution around elections
The 2026 general elections offer a critical opportunity to deepen democratic gains, strengthen citizens’ trust in institutions and advance Zambia’s commitments under the 8NDP and the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. DDP responds directly to recommendations of the 2023 UN Electoral Needs Assessment Mission, as well as lessons from the 2021 electoral cycle, to address these challenges in a coordinated and sustainable way.
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Our Vision
The Deepening Democracy Project envisions a Zambia where every citizen, including women and men, youth, persons with disabilities, and all marginalized groups, can fully and confidently participate in shaping the nation’s democratic future. Our vision is of an electoral system that is inclusive, transparent, credible, and anchored in strong, accountable institutions.
We aim to support a democratic environment where electoral processes are administered with integrity, guided by clear and trusted laws, and protected by effective early warning and conflict-prevention mechanisms. Through strengthened electoral management, meaningful reforms, and enhanced civic engagement, we seek to foster peaceful elections that reflect the will of the people and uphold the principles of justice, equality, and non-discrimination.
Ultimately, our vision is to contribute to a Zambia where democratic governance is deepened, public trust in institutions is strengthened, and elections serve as a tool for unity, stability, and sustainable development.
Partnerships in Action
DDP is implemented through a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, working closely with:
- Government institutions: Electoral Commission of Zambia, Ministry of Justice, Judiciary, National Assembly, Department of National Registration, Passports and Citizenship, Zambia Police Service, Gender Division, Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities, Human Rights Commission and others.
- Civil society and community actors: Women’s and youth organisations, organisations of persons with disabilities, faith-based organisations, media and fact-checking entities, and community-based organisations.
- Regional and international partners: Development partners and regional bodies supporting democratic governance, electoral integrity and peacebuilding.
UNDP also works with specialised partners such as the EC-UNDP Joint Task Force on Electoral Assistance and national fact-checking and early warning platforms.
