After seven days of intensive learning, practical exercises and interinstitutional dialogue, the Leadership and Conflict Management for Electoral Stakeholders (LEAD) Training of Trainers concluded successfully in Nouakchott, bringing together representatives of Mauritania's Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI), Constitutional Council, High Authority for Press and Audiovisual Communication (HAPA) and National Human Rights Commission (CNDH).
Implemented under the EURECS Mauritania project, funded by the European Union and implemented ECES, the training was facilitated by ECES LEAD experts Aous Qutaishat, Eva Palmans and Ashref Maktouf.
Designed to strengthen the capacities of key electoral stakeholders, the Training of Trainers equipped participants with the knowledge and practical tools needed to promote dialogue, prevent and manage electoral conflicts, and support peaceful and inclusive electoral processes. Through a highly interactive methodology combining theoretical sessions, group work, simulations and practical exercises, participants explored leadership approaches, conflict analysis, mediation techniques, dialogue facilitation and communication in sensitive electoral contexts.
Throughout the training, participants deepened their understanding of the dynamics of electoral conflict, learning how to identify root causes, analyse stakeholder interests and develop strategies to prevent tensions from escalating. The programme also strengthened participants' facilitation skills, preparing them to replicate the LEAD methodology within their respective institutions and contribute to building sustainable national capacities for conflict prevention and electoral dialogue.
Beyond individual capacity development, the training created an important platform for collaboration among Mauritania's key electoral institutions. By bringing together representatives of the CENI, the Constitutional Council, the HAPA and the CNDH, the programme encouraged the exchange of experiences, fostered mutual trust and promoted a shared understanding of the challenges and opportunities surrounding electoral governance. This collaborative approach contributes to reinforcing institutional coordination and supporting transparent, credible and peaceful electoral processes.
The training concluded with a closing ceremony celebrating the successful completion of the programme and the commitment demonstrated by all participants throughout the week. The event reaffirmed the shared determination of the participating institutions to continue strengthening cooperation, promoting dialogue and contributing to electoral integrity in Mauritania through the practical application and future dissemination of the LEAD methodology.
Through EURECS Mauritania, ECES continues to support national institutions in strengthening democratic governance by promoting dialogue, inclusive leadership and peaceful conflict management, contributing to resilient and credible electoral processes across the country.
