The Directorate of Civic Education (DFC) in Togo, 2001–2025: Actions, Limitations, and Challenges of a Citizenship Education Policy

Abstract

Incivism, understood as the failure to fulfill civic duties or comply with the laws and rules governing collective life, constitutes a major challenge to social cohesion and the development of states. It differs from incivility, which refers more specifically to behavior that violates basic norms of courtesy and social conduct. In Togo, behaviors considered uncivic have become particularly widespread since the political transformations that began on 5 October 1990 with the advent of political pluralism. They include, among others, disrespect for state symbols, disobedience to public authority, non-compliance with laws and republican institutions, damage to public property, declining civic participation, intolerance, and the weakening of national solidarity. In response to this situation, the Directorate of Civic Education (DFC), established to promote civic values, has undertaken various awareness-raising, training, and civic education initiatives since 2001, in collaboration with public institutions and civil society organizations. Despite these efforts, however, certain forms of uncivic behavior persist. This article examines the actions implemented by the DFC between 2001 and 2025, the institutional limitations that have reduced their effectiveness, and the factors that help explain the persistence of incivism. Drawing on a qualitative approach based on documentary analysis and data collected from relevant stakeholders, the study highlights the principal challenges involved in developing a sustainable citizenship education policy in Togo.