An investigation into the voting behaviour and socio-economic profiles of constituents across the Northern Province, Sierra Leone

Abstract

The objective of the research conducted for the purpose of this report was to collect data that gave an overview of the socio-economic profiles of constituents across the Northern Province which could be assessed to analyse voting behaviour and identify key action points for future programme work and research. There is very little data currently available in Sierra Leone, especially research that focusses on political participation and governance related issues. Exit poll surveys and structured interviews were conducted on the day of the 2012 General Election designed to target voters and non-voters with a focus on women. Women are still politically under-represented despite a visible increase in women’s political participation at the national level. This research report maps general issues raised by the data collected and offers recommendations for future points of action.

Contents Page

Survey Respondents Profile ...........................................................................4
Interview Respondents Profile ........................................................................5
Introduction ................................................................................................6-7
Methodology ..............................................................................................8-9
Results .....................................................................................................10-18
Discussion ................................................................................................19-20
Conclusions ..............................................................................................21
Recommendations .....................................................................................22
Exit Poll Survey .........................................................................................23-26
Structured Interview ....................................................................................27-29
Appendix One ...........................................................................................30-31