Into Africa A Study of Post-Conflict Democratization
Date of Award
2008
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Social Sciences
First Advisor
Hicks, Barbara
Keywords
Africa, Democratization, Post-Conflict
Area of Concentration
Political Science
Abstract
Theories about democratization suggest that many countries in Africa are unlikely candidates for democratization because of their low levels of development and histories of conflict. Nevertheless, several countries have been able to transition to and sustain democratic governance since the end of the Cold War despite economic strain and recent episodes of serious conflict. When contrasted with instances of failed democratization, the successful cases demonstrate some important similarities that may explain their ability to sustain a democratic transition. Countries with successful transitions included all major groups in the transition process, were not dependent on international financial support to start their transitions, and ended the conflict with far-reaching negotiations and fundamental reconstruction of the government through the creation of a new constitution. In contrast, the countries with failed transitions experienced resumed conflict following questionably legitimate elections, suppression of political activity and organization, and significant military influence over government. The differences between these sets of cases highlight factors that may have strengthened the democratic transition in the successful cases. While further research is required to draw more robust conclusions about the requirements for a democratic transition after conflict, this study suggests several factors of potential significance: ensuring a transfer of power in the founding elections, developing an electoral code and generating an enforceable constitution, negotiating the transition to open the political space and allow for greater political activity, organization, and oversight, and some specific roles for international financial aid in the transition process.
Recommended Citation
Riggs, Ceara, "Into Africa A Study of Post-Conflict Democratization" (2008). Theses & ETDs. 4024.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/4024
Rights
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