We invite you to participate in the 11th Annual AGOA CSO Network Spring Conference on May 19, 2026, from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm.

This year’s discussions will focus on aligning labor and employment standards, addressing non-tariff barriers that contribute to trade imbalances, and identifying policy reforms in both the U.S. and Africa to attract investment and expand private-sector participation.

Reserve your seat now by RSVPing below.

Seating is limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Light refreshments will be provided.

AGOA CSO Network Organization

The AGOA Civil Society Organization (CSO) Network has consistently played a leading role in advocacy for AGOA legislation and its reauthorization. The Foundation for Democracy in Africa (FDA) began its advocacy by appearing before the U.S. Congress in 1999 to promote the future passage of AGOA, and since its enactment into law in 2000, the FDA has continued these advocacy efforts. Together, the CSO Network and FDA demonstrate sustained commitment to AGOA-related advocacy.

On January 17, 2003, 102 CSO participants from the United States and Africa gathered at the Civil Society Session of the AGOQA Forum in Phoenix, Mauritius, where they established the AGOA CSO Network. The FDA and the Mauritius Council of Social Services were elected as co-chairs and tasked with establishing and managing the Network's Secretariat. The Secretariat was tasked with preparing for the Civil Society Sessions of the annual AGOA Forum. The FDA continues to manage the AGOA CSO Network to this day. 

AGOA CSO Network Spring Conference

As AGOA approaches reauthorization, U.S. and African civil society organizations reaffirm their commitment to transparent, market-driven trade, secure supply chains, and sustainable development in sectors such as critical minerals and manufacturing. Strong labor and employment standards remain essential to ensuring trade supports dignity, fairness, and stable, rules-based economic engagement. Upholding internationally recognized norms strengthens AGOA’s credibility, supports predictable market conditions, and contributes to long-term economic growth.

Current concerns about trade imbalances, regulatory barriers, and reciprocal market access underscore the need for practical reforms to enhance competitiveness and strengthen U.S.–Africa economic cooperation.

The AGOA CSO Network Spring Conference will address these challenges and explore ways to strengthen U.S.–Africa economic cooperation.

The conference will bring together U.S. and African policymakers, labor institutions, civil society, and private-sector leaders to:

• Assess how labor standards influence AGOA eligibility and competitiveness.
• Examine how African partners can meet U.S. expectations amid shifting domestic priorities.
• Improve coordination among civil society, labor institutions, and government agencies.
• Build capacity for African SMEs on labor compliance and supply‑chain transparency.
• Develop actionable recommendations for AGOA reauthorization and long‑term cooperation.