Since President Patrice Talon came to power in 2016, Benin has undergone profound institutional reforms, accompanied by political tensions unprecedented in the post-1990 democratic era. This culminated in the electoral crisis of April-May 2019, which significantly impacted political stability and democratic reputation. The 2019 legislative elections took place without the opposition, excluded for non-compliance with the new 2018 electoral rules. Only two pro-government parties closely linked to President Talon were allowed to participate, leading to a parliament entirely loyal to the executive and enabling the president to undertake major reforms without any real countervailing power.

The constitutional revision of November 2019 was carried out without a referendum or public consultation. It amended several key provisions, including mandatory sponsorship of presidential candidates by elected officials, reform of the electoral calendar, and the institutionalisation of gender promotion without any clear binding mechanism. Between April and May 2019, protests broke out in several cities and were violently suppressed, resulting in injuries, arbitrary arrests, the exile of opposition figures, internet blackouts and a marked restriction of civic space.

In 2024-2025, civic space in Benin continued to shrink. The adoption of a restrictive new electoral code in March 2024 and the draft law on associations and foundations submitted to the National Assembly without prior consultation in April 2025 illustrate this trend. Arbitrary arrests of political and trade union figures, violent repression of peaceful demonstrations and the closure of critical media outlets confirm the fragility of civil and political rights.