(iPoster) Between Norms and Interest: Regional Organizations and Regime Survival in Africa

• In Event: Poster Sessions: African Politics Conference Group & Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Politics
  In Poster Session: Poster Session: African Politics Conference Group

Abstract

ABSTRACT
This research examines regional organizations and their contributions regarding the dual role they play in sustaining authoritarian regimes or fostering democratic reforms. The central research question of this study aims at finding why African regional organizations, including the African Union, the Economic Community of West African States, and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), support the survival of authoritarian regimes in some cases while facilitating democratization in others. We utilize the constructivist theoretical framework for the study to examine the norms enforcement instruments as well as internal and external pressures that shape the actions of these organizations. Through case studies across diverse African context, we analyze how regional organizations provide resources, legitimacy and stability to regimes as they prioritize economic and strategic interests over democratic principles. Anticipated findings of the study indicate that when member states prioritize strategic or economic interests over liberal norms, this may enable regional organizations to support authoritarian regimes or refrain from enforcing democratic norms to avoid disrupting beneficial relationships.

Authors

• Unregistered Participant

• Francois Kabre, Auburn University

• Ebelechukwu Monye, Auburn University

• Uchenna Kingsley Agu, Auburn University, Alabama

• Regan Ofori Acheampong, Auburn University

• Moonmoon Khanam, Auburn University