Cape Verde President Urges Balance Between State and Civil Society
Cape Verdean President José Maria Neves has called for a “strong balance” between the state and civil society, describing the empowerment of independent organizations as a vital ingredient for the nation’s sustainable development and democratic health.
The Core of Sustainable Development
Speaking at the opening of a national forum for civil society organizations in Praia, President Neves emphasized that a robust state cannot exist in a vacuum. “We need a strong balance between the state and civil society,” Neves stated. “Only a strong, autonomous, and responsible civil society will allow for sustainable development.”
The President argued that the country must prioritize the reinforcement of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), businesses, labor unions, churches, and community groups. This strengthening, he noted, is essential to ensure that public policies are more effectively aligned with the actual needs of the population.
Protecting Autonomy and Overcoming Fear
A key theme of the President’s address was the preservation of independence. Neves warned against the blurring of lines between civil society and political parties, advocating for the sector to remain an independent force capable of influencing public authorities without being absorbed by them.
However, Neves acknowledged significant hurdles facing civic engagement in the archipelago. “We still have a lot to do, especially because the costs of participation in Cape Verde are high,” he noted. He pointed to a certain “timidity” among citizens to take critical stances, citing a fear of potential consequences. He called for structural measures to reduce these constraints and foster a culture where critical voices can contribute without fear.
A Turning Point for NGOs
The three-day national meeting serves as a strategic platform for NGOs to coordinate and reflect on their role in building a more inclusive country. Felisberto Moreira, president of the Platform of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), described the event as a “turning point” for Cape Verdean civil society.
Moreira highlighted the need for more than just political recognition; he argued that a strong civil society requires “adequate operating conditions,” including predictable financial resources to respond effectively to national challenges.
Strategic Priorities
Throughout the forum, participants will focus on several critical pillars for the platform’s future activity plan, including:
- Institutional strengthening and internal reorganization
- Social inclusion and human rights protection
- Climate change mitigation and resilience
- Improving communication and transparency with the general public
The NGO Platform also announced plans to become more inclusive by easing the path for grassroots community organizations and new NGOs to join, provided they meet legal requirements.
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