Togo has begun the process of reforming its legal framework governing civil society organisations, as the government moves to modernise association laws that date back more than a century.
The cabinet on December 24 adopted a draft law on freedom of association, marking a significant step toward updating regulations that authorities say are no longer suited to present-day realities. The proposal is intended to replace the existing framework inspired by France’s 1901 law on associations, which officials argue does not adequately reflect current institutional, economic and social conditions in Togo.
According to the government, the new legislation aims to strengthen legal certainty for civil society organisations while striking a balance between freedom of association and requirements linked to public order, security, transparency and accountability. Officials said the reform is designed to provide clearer rules for the creation, operation and oversight of associations, without undermining their independence.
Although detailed provisions of the draft law have not yet been made public, authorities indicated that the reforms will place greater emphasis on financial transparency and governance standards, particularly for organisations that manage donor-funded projects or operate in sensitive sectors.
Civil society organisations have expanded rapidly in Togo in recent years, playing an increasingly visible role in local development, humanitarian assistance, governance initiatives and social entrepreneurship. Many of these organisations act as implementing partners for international donors, supporting government programmes at the community level.
The government said the revised framework is intended to improve coordination between civil society, public institutions and development partners, while ensuring that associations operate within a clear and predictable legal environment. Once adopted by parliament, the law could be complemented by implementing regulations to guide enforcement and administrative procedures.
The draft legislation will now be submitted to the Togolese parliament for debate. Officials have described the reform as part of a broader effort to align national laws with evolving institutional structures and to adapt governance frameworks to the country’s changing socio-economic landscape.
