Politics 387DA - Advanced Topics in Politics: 'Democratization of Africa'

The course offers an in-depth examination of democratization in Africa -- a radical transformation in the governance process for most African countries and a process which was part of the third wave democratization that swept the continent from the late 1980s to the early 1990s. It examines the factors behind the liberalization process, the actors involved, their values and culture, the issues, the institutions and the modes of transitions across the continent. The course also examines the concepts and the main theories which explain the democratization process in the continent and the fundamental challenges confronting the democratization process and governance in the continent and their impact on socio-economic and political development. The course concludes with a discussion of what the future may hold for the region in terms of deepening democracy and prospects for socio-economic development.

This course is open to juniors and seniors; Prereq: 8 credits in Politics.