Benin has experienced significant economic growth and rapid infrastructural development over the past decade, largely driven by policies implemented under former President Patrice Talon, who governed from 2016 until May 2026. The country’s annual GDP growth rate rose from 3% to 6%, positioning Benin among the fastest-growing economies in the West African region. This growth has been complemented by extensive urban renewal in Cotonou, the country’s largest city, including a new coastal road connecting it to Ouidah, a city of cultural and spiritual importance. Additionally, an industrial zone has been established northwest of Cotonou in an effort to formalize and expand the largely informal economy.

Talon, often referred to as "the cotton king" due to his wealth amassed in the agricultural sector before diversifying into banking and hospitality, sought to redefine Benin's position in the region. Departing from his predecessor Thomas Boni Yayi’s acceptance of Benin's overshadowed status in relation to Nigeria, Talon aimed to elevate Benin's stature through strong economic performance and political consolidation. Throughout his tenure, Talon maintained cooperative ties with Nigeria, including calling on it to assist in quelling an attempted coup in December 2025.

However, Talon’s administration has also drawn criticism for a pronounced decline in democratic norms. Once considered a model for democratic transition in West Africa, Benin under Talon has seen increased restrictions on political opposition and media freedom. Analysts note that Talon’s leadership style reflects that of Rwanda’s Paul Kagame, combining developmental ambitions with authoritarian governance. Talon’s government appointed former Rwandan officials to key governmental positions and sought Rwanda's assistance in addressing regional security challenges, particularly insurgencies near the Nigerian border.

During Talon’s presidency, electoral reforms introduced stringent candidate registration fees and other barriers that significantly reduced opposition representation in parliament. In 2019, the government temporarily shut down the internet amid parliamentary elections to curb protests against these restrictions. The judiciary was also instrumentalized, with numerous opposition figures and journalists detained on charges related to state security. Among the notable cases was the imprisonment of opposition leader Reckya Madougou, accused of "undermining the state," a move criticized by a former anti-corruption judge who fled the country alleging judicial coercion.

In November 2025, the government passed a constitutional amendment that extended the presidential term from five to seven years, established a new senate with members appointed exclusively by the ruling administration, and set thresholds that effectively barred opposition parties from parliamentary representation. This consolidation of power was followed by a failed coup attempt led by mutineers citing government authoritarianism and escalating insecurity.

The April 2026 presidential election, widely viewed as lacking genuine competition, saw Talon’s chosen successor, Romuald Wadagni, secure over 94% of the vote, with only one opposition candidate permitted to run. Following the election, Talon returned to prominence by assuming the presidency of the newly formed senate. Political analysts describe him as a dominant figure in Benin’s political landscape, signaling his continued influence despite stepping down as president.