Kwedu News
Harare, Zimbabwe – The European Union (EU) has announced the suspension of its planned financial support for Zimbabwe’s good governance programs in 2025, citing concerns over the recently enacted Private Voluntary Organizations (PVO) Amendment Act.
This decision throws a wrench into the country’s efforts to strengthen its democratic institutions and civil society, and comes at a time when Zimbabwe is already grappling with significant economic challenges.
The move follows similar actions taken by the United States government under the previous Trump administration, which also scaled back funding to various African nations citing concerns over governance and transparency. This confluence of events raises serious questions about the future of international aid and its role in shaping Zimbabwe’s trajectory.
The PVO Amendment Act, championed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration, has been met with widespread criticism from human rights organizations and civil society groups, both domestically and internationally. Critics argue that the law, ostensibly designed to combat money laundering and terrorism financing, grants the government excessive powers to control and interfere with the operations of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs).
“The EU’s decision is a direct response to the increasingly restrictive operating environment for civil society in Zimbabwe,” explains Dr. Tendai Murambadoro, a political analyst at the University of Zimbabwe. “The PVO Act, in its current form, effectively silences critical voices and undermines the crucial work of NGOs in areas such as human rights, democracy promotion, and humanitarian assistance.”
Under the controversial law, the government can register, de-register, and even directly control the activities of NGOs, potentially jeopardizing their independence and ability to operate effectively. This has raised fears that the law will be used to stifle dissent and target organizations perceived as critical of the ruling ZANU-PF party.
The EU had earmarked a significant portion of its 2025 development assistance package for Zimbabwe’s good governance initiatives, including support for electoral reforms, strengthening parliamentary oversight, and promoting freedom of expression. The suspension of this funding is likely to have a significant impact on these crucial areas, potentially hindering progress towards a more democratic and accountable society.
“This decision by the EU is a serious blow to the aspirations of Zimbabweans who are working tirelessly to build a more just and equitable society,” says Thandiwe Dube, a local human rights activist. “The international community needs to send a strong message that democratic backsliding will not be tolerated.”
The timing of the EU’s decision is particularly sensitive as Zimbabwe gears up for general elections in 2023. Concerns have already been raised about the fairness and credibility of the electoral process, and the curtailment of civil society activities could further undermine public trust in the outcome.
While the EU’s move is intended to pressure the Zimbabwean government to reconsider the PVO Act and create a more conducive environment for civil society, some argue that it could have unintended consequences. Suspending funding could further exacerbate the country’s economic woes and disproportionately affect vulnerable populations who rely on NGO services for essential support.
“There is a delicate balance to be struck between holding the government accountable and ensuring that ordinary Zimbabweans do not suffer as a result,” Dr. Murambadoro cautions. “The EU needs to carefully consider the long-term implications of its decision and explore alternative strategies to support civil society and promote democratic reform.”
The Zimbabwean government, for its part, has defended the PVO Act, arguing that it is necessary to ensure transparency and accountability within the NGO sector and prevent the misuse of funds for illicit purposes. Critics, however, remain unconvinced, arguing that existing legislation already provided adequate safeguards against financial impropriety.
The EU’s decision marks a significant turning point in its relationship with Zimbabwe. It remains to be seen whether the government will heed calls to revise the PVO Act and restore the space for civil society to operate freely. In the meantime, the future of Zimbabwe’s good governance agenda hangs in the balance, with potentially far-reaching consequences for the country’s democratic development. This suspension, coupled with past funding cuts from the US administration, forces Zimbabwe to re-evaluate its reliance on international aid and explore alternative pathways to sustainable development and democratic consolidation. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether a compromise can be reached, and whether Zimbabwe can regain the trust of its international partners.
Jobst von Kirchmann, the EU Ambassador to Zimbabwe
