In a breakthrough moment for citizen-driven diplomacy, the 16th Ordinary Plenary Assembly of the Conference of International Non-Governmental Organizations (COING) of La Francophonie opened on September 28, 2026, in Cotonou, Benin. Over two days, civil society leaders from across the French-speaking world are converging to shape a unified contribution ahead of the 20th Francophonie Summit, scheduled for November 15-16 in Cambodia, and to lock in a pragmatic roadmap for 2026-2028.
Peace that goes beyond the battlefield
Under the theme “Reinvesting in peace: mobilizing francophone civil society for shared prosperity, resilient territories, and lasting stability,” the assembly is sending a powerful message: peace is not merely the absence of war. It demands social justice, universal access to basic services, effective mediation, robust human rights protection, and the capacity to withstand economic and security shocks. This holistic vision is the cornerstone of the discussions in Cotonou.
A stronger voice for citizens in decision-making
Participants are calling for closer collaboration between governments, parliamentarians, and NGOs. Grassroots organizations, which operate closest to the realities on the ground, insist on being systematically included in the decision-making processes of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF). Their goal is clear: turn local recommendations into concrete public policies that reflect the needs of communities.
A pragmatic roadmap for 2026-2028
The Cotonou Assembly aims to build a more operational COING, with a sharp focus on three pillars:
- Strengthening networks: Structuring synergies among francophone NGOs to maximize collective impact.
- Resource mobilization: Developing strategic financial and technical partnerships to sustain action.
- Impact monitoring: Measuring tangible outcomes within communities to ensure accountability and continuous improvement.
By hosting this session, Benin reaffirms its pivotal role in francophone dialogue. With just weeks to go before the Cambodia Summit, civil society gathered in Cotonou is delivering a clear and urgent message: the future of La Francophonie cannot be built without the active involvement of citizens and their representatives. This is the turning point where words must become deeds.
