Chapter Democratic Development in West Africa : IN Book: Democratic Recession, Autocratic Resurgence and The Future of Governance in Africa

Abstract

This book re-examines and contextualises political developments that have seen African countries make progress in achieving democratic governance over the last two decades alongside their struggle to institutionalise it amidst socioeconomic and political complexities. It provides a comprehensive discussion on emerging or 'aborted democratisation' and its social consequences, as contributors analyse the environmental, security, socioeconomic, and political impacts of political transitions, whether democratic or otherwise, on the continent. The book explores the potential causes of democratic regression and the consolidating authoritarianism in regions where democratic progress appeared promising and their actual implications for African governance. Finally, it provides practical recommendations for sustainable policy changes to ensure democratic survival. This book will be of key interest to scholars and students of African politics and studies, democracy and democratisation, autocratisation studies, development and area studies, human rights, governance, human security, and more broadly to political science, African history, international relations, and the wider social sciences.