The Pan-African Parliament (PAP), in partnership with AUDA NEPAD, the Centre for Human Rights, and the Institute for International and Comparative Law in Africa (ICLA) of the Faculty of Law at the University of Pretoria, is hosting a high-level conference on “The Impact of Military Coups and the Militarisation of Politics on Constitutionalism and Democracy in Africa.” The event is taking place at the seat of the Pan-African Parliament in Midrand, South Africa.
The conference brings together leading experts in constitutional law and civil-military relations to critically examine the growing challenges that military interventions and the militarisation of politics pose to constitutional democracy in Africa. Discussions will explore how innovative constitutional frameworks can strengthen civil-military relations and mitigate the risks of coups and unconstitutional changes of government.
Opening the conference, the President of the Pan-African Parliament underscored that the relationship between civilian governments and the military in Africa has undergone significant transformations against the backdrop of recurring coups and the creeping militarisation of politics. He noted that these trends—driven by historical, political, socio-economic, and institutional factors—require urgent and honest reflection.
He further emphasised the role of Africa’s youth, describing them as the driving force behind development, progress, and social transformation on the continent. “Young people are pushing for innovation, accountability, and a better future. Yet, as they rise to claim their rightful place in shaping their nations, the military continues to take over institutions, often under the pretext of instability or political failure,” he said.
Calling for open dialogue on Africa’s political realities, he added:
“Let’s be honest about Africa’s distress. Most coups take place because the plight of young people is ignored. They lack strong institutions that can support them, protect their voices, and enable them to take real charge of their countries’ destinies.”
The first session of the conference focused on Africa’s current pressure points, highlighting major demographic and structural shifts that present both opportunities and risks. Key issues discussed included the continent’s surging youth population and rapid urbanisation, which increase demands for jobs and social services amid declining public trust and political legitimacy.
Participants noted that persistent governance challenges—such as conflict, economic dependency, and weak institutions—undermine political stability and social cohesion. Speaker Lindiwe Zulu, Former Minister of Social Development of South Africa, stressed the importance of youth inclusion, warning that without meaningful engagement, disillusioned young people could become vulnerable to manipulation. “Their involvement is crucial for Africa’s stability and sustainable development,” she affirmed.
