As Benin prepares for its legislative (January 2026) and presidential (April 2026) elections, Paradigm Initiative (PIN) expresses deep concern over ongoing restrictions on digital freedoms in the country. The political climate, combined with a restrictive digital legal framework, raises serious questions about the protection of fundamental rights in the digital space in the lead-up to the vote.

Since the adoption of the Digital Code in 2018—particularly Article 550 on the dissemination of false information—several journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens have been arrested or intimidated for their online speech. Moreover, the 2019 and 2021 election periods were marked by social media shutdowns, internet slowdowns, and content blocking measures, undermining the free flow of information.

Despite the creation of the Data Protection Authority (APDP) in 2009, enforcement of data protection remains weak, and cases of non-judicial surveillance have been reported. These practices, which contradict Benin’s international commitments—such as the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), and the Malabo Convention—threaten civic participation, freedom of expression, and electoral transparency.

Paradigm Initiative Recommends: 

📌 To the Government of Benin:

• Ensure free and uninterrupted access to the internet and digital platforms throughout the electoral process.

• Guarantee that anti-disinformation laws are not used to censor critical or independent voices.

• Strengthen transparency and ensure judicial oversight of digital surveillance mechanisms.

📌 To the National Electoral Commission (CENA):

• Ensure the availability and accessibility of the electoral roll to all citizens.

• Integrate reliable and transparent digital tools into the electoral process.

• Train electoral agents in cybersecurity and information management.

📌 To Media and Journalists:

• Adopt responsible journalistic practices, avoiding the spread of rumors or hate speech.

• Actively participate in fact-checking initiatives and promote digital literacy among citizens.

📌 To Civil Society Organizations (CSOs):

• Document any form of digital rights violations during the electoral process.

• Advocate for reforms of digital laws in line with international standards.

📌 To International Partners and Digital Platforms:

• Support local initiatives aimed at strengthening digital rights and combating disinformation through capacity building and resource allocation.

• Work with local stakeholders to develop context-specific strategies that preserve fundamental rights.

📌 To Political Parties:

• Promote responsible digital campaigning, refrain from hate speech, and avoid abusing digital platforms to spread disinformation.

• Adopt public commitments to digital peace, including pledges to uphold the principles of democratic debate.

PIN’s Commitment

Paradigm Initiative is committed to remaining vigilant throughout the electoral period. Any digital rights violation will be documented, archived, and accountability will be pursued. We call on all stakeholders to ensure that the digital space remains one of freedom, information, and participation.

About Paradigm Initiative

Paradigm Initiative (PIN) connects under-served young Africans with digital opportunities and works to protect their rights. Active in Nigeria since 2007 and across Africa since 2017, we have built recognised expertise and strong community trust. Today, PIN stands as a leading organisation on digital inclusion and rights on the continent.

Through our regional offices in Cameroon, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and beyond, we have reached over 150,000 young people through our training, empowerment, and advocacy programmes. These include:

• The LIFE Program: digital skills, entrepreneurship, and financial readiness

• Digital Readiness Workshops for youth

• School-based clubs raising awareness on digital rights

We have also launched online platforms such as Ayeta, Londa, and Ripoti, which serve to educate, inform, and report digital rights violations.