2025 EU–Sierra Leone Political Partnership Dialogue
State House Sierra Leone
The European Union delegation was led by Mr. Olof Skoog, Deputy Secretary-General for External Action, and included six EU Ambassadors accredited to Sierra Leone, alongside senior officials and diplomats.
Both parties welcomed the continued convening of the Political Partnership Dialogue, underscoring its value as a cornerstone of the longstanding and mutually beneficial partnership between Sierra Leone and the European Union.
State House Sierra Loene
Key Areas of Engagement
Discussions were constructive and forward-looking, structured around three interrelated priority areas:
- Democracy and the Rule of Law
- Regional and Multilateral Affairs
- Socio-Economic Partnership
Democracy, Governance, and the Rule of Law
Both parties reaffirmed their shared conviction that democracy remains the most sustainable foundation for peace, stability, and inclusive development—in Sierra Leone, Europe, and beyond. This commitment continues to guide ongoing political and governance reforms in Sierra Leone, particularly those aimed at strengthening public confidence in democratic institutions and electoral processes. In this context, the Government of Sierra Leone welcomed continued EU support, including through EU Electoral Observation Missions.
Building on this shared commitment to the rule of law, both parties agreed to intensify collaboration in a reinvigorated fight against organised crime, illicit drug trafficking, and transnational criminal networks. They underscored the importance of coordinated action, institutional strengthening, and information-sharing to address the growing threats these crimes pose to security, public health, governance, and regional stability.
Sierra Leone’s Global and Multilateral Engagement
The dialogue acknowledged Sierra Leone’s strengthened international profile in 2025, marked by its second year as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and its Presidency of the Council in November. The European Union expressed appreciation for Sierra Leone’s constructive engagement in addressing regional and global crises, as well as its consistent efforts to elevate African perspectives within multilateral fora.
At a time when multilateralism faces significant global pressures, both parties reaffirmed their firm commitment to a rules-based international order anchored in the United Nations system. They underscored their shared dedication to the principles of international law, the UN Charter, human rights, and fundamental freedoms, with particular emphasis on gender equality.
Regional Peace and Security
Recognising the growing security challenges facing the region, the dialogue highlighted Sierra Leone’s leadership role as Chair of the ECOWAS Authority in 2025. In line with the outcomes of the African Union–European Union Summit held in Luanda on 24–25 November 2025—attended by H.E. President Julius Maada Bio and EU leaders—the European Union reaffirmed its support for ECOWAS efforts to preserve peace and stability through the promotion of democratic governance and constitutional order across the region.
Both parties also emphasized the strategic importance of maritime security as a critical component of regional stability and economic resilience.
Socio-Economic Partnership and Development Cooperation
The dialogue reviewed progress on Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP) 2024–2030 and the implementation of the Government’s Big Five Game Changers. Discussions highlighted the importance of fiscal discipline, strengthened public financial management, and continued reforms to foster a conducive environment for private sector investment.
Both parties agreed that sustained commitment to good governance, the rule of law, and the fight against organised crime and trafficking is essential—not only for social stability and citizen trust, but also as a key driver for attracting responsible investment and long-term economic growth.
Way Forward
At the conclusion of the dialogue, the Government of Sierra Leone and the European Union reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining these regular high-level consultations on issues of mutual interest. The Political Partnership Dialogue will continue to complement ongoing bilateral engagement and coordination within the Development Partners Coordination Group (DEPAC).
#END#
For further information, please contact:
Press and Information Officer
EU Delegation to Sierra Leone
CONTACT DETAILS
For further information, please contact:
Press and Information Officer
EU Delegation to Sierra Leone