Togo – 2013: Politics, economy and society in 2013

Peaceful but undemocratic legislative elections consolidated the power of the Gnassingbé regime in 2013. In view of the absolute majority gained by the ruling party, its inclination to implement meaningful reforms, as demanded by the opposition and the donor community, was reduced further. The growing Islamist threats in neighbouring countries meant that the donor community condoned the delays in democratic reforms including the conduct of local elections, which were pushed back several times. Promising growth prospects were overshadowed by increasing poverty and inequality.