Description
Book SynopsisThis edited volume adds to the growing body of knowledge on democratic and authoritarian regimes in sub-Saharan Africa, expanding the analysis to countries that have, to date, received scant attention. The authors examine democratic contestation in six countries as well as explanations for their trajectories.
Trade ReviewThis volume examines a number of demographically small African countries, which are also among the least-studied countries on earth. Each case study will be of intrinsic interest to those seeking to understand these little-known cases. More importantly, however, each chapter contributes crucial information on how these regimes might best be categorized for comparative theoretical analysis. By providing valuable and nuanced discussions of the nature of each of these cases, the volume also contributes important data for the elaboration of broader theories of democratization and regime change, in Africa and beyond. -- Leonardo A. Villalón, University of Florida International Center
The notion of competitive authoritarianism provides a better understanding of hybrid regimes executing political hegemony with authoritarian elements within a multi-party democracy. The case studies from smaller African countries in this volume offer further insights into this phenomenon and add value to the debate of a relevant concept. -- Henning Melber, University of Pretoria and the University of the Free State
This book fills an important gap by providing useful accounts of current politics in six small and infrequently discussed African states. Each case study uses the framework of competitive authoritarianism to present material on the main arenas of democratic contestation. I recommend this book to anyone seeking up-to-date comparative information on the struggles for democratization in these countries. -- Nelson Kasfir, Professor of Government Emeritus, Dartmouth College
Table of Contents1.Democratic Contestation on the Margins Claire Metelits and Stephanie Matti 2.Competitive Authoritarianism and Theories of Regime Change Claire Metelits and Stephanie Matti 3.Democratic Contestation in Botswana Nicola de Jager and Ian Taylor 4.Eroding Democracy: Competitive Authoritarian Drift in Benin Mathurin C. Houngnikpo 5.Political Uncertainty in Burkina Faso Daniel Eizenga 6.Democratic Governance in the “New” Republic of Togo Benjamin A. Okonofua 7.Authoritarianism and Geostrategic Politics in Djibouti Claire Metelits and Stephanie Matti 8.Cycles of Regime Change in Guinea-Bissau Davin O’Regan 9.Listening to the Margins Claire Metelits and Stephanie Matti
