Senegal has maintained relative political and institutional stability, with three democratic transitions in recent decades, in 2000, 2012 and 2024. However, challenges remain in deepening democracy, responding to social demands and addressing institutional imbalance, with the executive branch continuing to exert influence over the legislative and judicial branches.

The “Senegal 2050” Transformation Agenda and the 2025–2029 National Development Strategy set out ambitions for a sovereign Senegal, based on a rethinking of the economic model, inclusive social transformation, renewed governance and balanced regional development. Senegal also has a diverse and active civil society, engaged across development sectors and vocal on governance, human rights, justice and equity.

After a period of political and social unrest from 2021 to 2024, the March 2024 election of President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye reflected citizens’ aspiration for change and for governance based on ethics, transparency and accountability. However, political divisions remain, despite dialogue initiatives that continue to characterise Senegalese democracy.

In a context of shrinking civic space, including arrests and imprisonment of journalists and columnists for opinion-related offences, CSOs continue to promote civic awareness, contribute to public policy and support improved governance and living conditions, particularly for vulnerable populations.