International Democracy Union Honours Tidjane Thiam with the Bush-Thatcher Award for Freedom
December 4, 2025 — The International Democracy Union (IDU) presented today its Bush-Thatcher Award for Freedom to its member-party, the Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire – African Democratic Rally (PDCI-RDA) and President Tidjane Thiam. This distinction recognizes Mr. Thiam’s unwavering commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and political freedom in the face of escalating repression and persecution.
The award comes at a critical juncture for Côte d’Ivoire. Despite being the legitimate leader of the main opposition party, Tidjane Thiam has been targeted by a systematic campaign to bar him from the upcoming presidential elections. The ruling administration’s use of judicial maneuvers to invalidate his candidacy—citing unfounded challenges regarding his nationality—represents a flagrant violation of democratic principles and the rights of the Ivorian people to choose their leaders freely.
“Tidjane Thiam represents the resilience and courage required to stand up against authoritarian drift,” said The Right Honourable Stephen Harper, IDU Chairman. “By attempting to silence him, the current regime only highlights its fear of genuine democratic competition. The IDU stands firmly with Mr. Thiam and the PDCI.”
IDU Secretary General Tina Mercep added: “This award is not just a recognition of past achievements, but a shield and a spotlight. The world is watching. The undemocratic banning of political opponents and the manipulation of electoral lists in Côte d’Ivoire and many African countries are unacceptable. We demand the immediate restoration of Tidjane Thiam’s full political rights and a free, fair, and transparent election process.”
Tidjane Thiam accepted the award stating: “On behalf of the PDCI, I am honored to accept the Bush–Thatcher Award for Freedom. This recognition belongs to the men and women who have stood firm for free and fair elections, often at great personal risk. As Côte d’Ivoire moves through a pivotal electoral period, this award affirms that our fight for transparency, accountability and genuine political competition is recognized not only in Côte d’Ivoire but in greater Africa and globally; and that democracy is strengthened when citizens can exercise their rights freely, peacefully and without fear.”
The Bush-Thatcher Award for Freedom is the IDU’s highest honor, commemorating the legacies of George H.W. Bush and Margaret Thatcher. It is bestowed upon those who champion liberty against tyranny. By presenting this award to Tidjane Thiam, the global alliance of the centre-right reaffirms its solidarity with the democratic forces in Côte d’Ivoire and across Africa.
About the IDU
The International Democracy Union (IDU) is the world’s leading association of conservative, Christian-democratic, and centre-right political parties. With more than 80 member parties worldwide, the IDU connects the global centre-right family to advance freedom and democracy.
Contact: International Democracy Union, Secretary General Tina Mercep tina.mercep@idu.org , www.idu.org