Francophonie ministers back Benin’s bid for 2027 conference
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Bénin Web TV
Gathered in Phnom Penh, Francophonie member states backed Benin’s candidacy on 14 November to host the 2027 ministerial conference. The choice must still be confirmed by heads of state at the 20th Francophonie Summit on 15 and 16 November, according to the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF).
Francophonie ministers offered their support on 14 November in Phnom Penh to Benin’s candidacy to host the Francophonie Ministerial Conference in 2027. The designation still needs to be validated by heads of state and government gathered for the 20th Francophonie Summit, on 15 and 16 November, according to Oria K. Vande Weghe, communications director of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF).
The Permanent Council of La Francophonie had already given a favourable opinion on Benin’s file on 1 July 2026 in Paris. At that meeting, members had also backed Canada’s candidacy to host the 21st Francophonie Summit in 2028.
Ministers also finalised three texts for the summit: a declaration on peace and solidarity, a resolution on crisis situations and an appeal on protecting cultural heritage and diversity. Leaders are also due to examine the applications of Saint Kitts and Nevis and of Manitoba, a Canadian province, for observer status. The OIF currently has 90 member states and governments.
Benin’s bid follows the hosting in Cotonou, on 28 and 29 September, of the 16th assembly of the Conference of International Non-Governmental Organisations of La Francophonie. Benin had also hosted, in June 2025, an OIF economic mission bringing together around 100 foreign companies and economic players and nearly 200 Beninese companies.
The ministerial support comes during the Francophonie Summit in Phnom Penh, which runs on 15 and 16 November. It follows the publication, on 14 November, of an announcement that 53 members elect their secretary general on 16 November.
