Conakry — Associate professor of comparative politics and international relations at the American University of Paris recently visited the Guinean capital, Conakry to give a series of thought provoking lectures on democracy and elections.

Dr. Steven Ekovich tour of West Africa and Guinea in particular was organized by ARS Paris in the aftermath of failed genuine attempts by the international community to make sure democracy holds in the region.

The international crisis group (ICG) recently questioned the willingness of the Guinean government to hold elections in 2008 as planned; however, donors and opposition party members say it was not just political will but practical concerns such as a funding shortfall.

Meanwhile, Dr. Ekovich was at a forum in Conakry where he spoke on democracy and the rule of law with members of youth associations.

He spoke to academics, students, members of the judiciary, electoral commission members, civil society organizations, labor unions and government officials on the US electoral system and American foreign policy.

Dr. Ekovich further discussed the role of the US presidential nominating conventions with members of the media and the role of the political opposition with political party representatives.

In order to reach an even wider audience, Dr. Ekovich participated in two radio interviews, including a call-in show where he answered questions from listeners.

At each event, participants were actively engaged in a lively dialogue on democracy and elections, both in the United States and in Guinea, and came away with a deeper understanding of American society and government.