The 16th Ordinary Plenary Assembly of the Conference of International Non-Governmental Organisations (COING) of La Francophonie opened in Cotonou on 28 September 2026. Over two days, the meeting brings together francophone civil society actors to define their contribution ahead of the 20th Francophonie Summit, scheduled for 15-16 November in Cambodia, and to set the 2026-2028 roadmap.
Peace beyond words
Under the theme “Reinvesting in peace, mobilising francophone civil society for shared prosperity, resilient territories and lasting stability”, the gathering stresses that peace is not merely the absence of war. It requires social justice, access to basic services, mediation, defence of human rights and resilience in the face of economic and security crises.
Strengthened citizen participation
Participants are calling for close cooperation between states, parliamentarians and NGOs. Present on the ground, citizen organisations are asking to be more closely involved in the decision-making processes of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF) in order to turn local recommendations into concrete public policies.
A pragmatic 2026-2028 roadmap
The Cotonou Assembly aims to build a more operational COING. Priorities focus on:
- Consolidating networks: Structuring synergies between francophone NGOs.
- Mobilising resources: Developing strategic financial and technical partnerships.
- Monitoring impact: Concretely measuring the effects of actions within communities.
By hosting this session, Benin reaffirms its key role in francophone dialogue. Just weeks before the Cambodia meeting, civil society gathered in Cotonou is sending a clear message: the future of La Francophonie cannot be built without the active involvement of citizens and their representatives.
