APPP Discussion Paper No. 4. An Asianist's perspective on the Africa Power and Politics Programme.
Abstract
This is a think piece (desk study) commissioned as an input into the APP programme design phase. The paper is written on the assumption that insights from the study of Asia may suggest lines of enquiry about politics and power in Africa. While there is certainly no Asian 'model', Asian and especially Indian experience is relevant in a number of respects. It suggests a need for caution in attempting to improve accountabilities or 'get things done' by reviving old institutions, and points to the feasibility of mobilising constructive social resources with responsive project designs; the desirability of balance between assertiveness and accommodation in political leadership; and the importance of senior politicians as agents of change. Other topics discussed include the spread of 'postclientelist' electoral strategies, alternative approaches to containing corruption and the value of South-South policy emulation.
Citation
London, UK, Africa Power and Politics Programme (APPP), 32 pp.
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