Democratic Transition and Conflict in Africa – Joseph Siegle
Channel: Africa Center for Strategic Studies
Date: 2017-05-19

Governance has profound implications for security. Autocratically ruled countries account for 90% of Africa's refugees and displaced persons, three quarters of its fragile states, and 8 out of 10 countries in serious conflict.

In this presentation to security sector leaders from across Africa, the Africa Center's Director of Research Joseph Siegle looks at democratic transitions in Africa, drawing out security implications and lessons for the future. Starting with the example of Gambia, he notes that democratization is about building institutions such as rule of law, checks & balances, etc., rather than any single moment or event (such as an election).

Democratic transitions are challenging. They take time, they're not linear, and frequently involve a certain amount of backsliding. The longer a country has experienced autocratic rule, the more difficulty it will probably find in reforming its institutions.

Societies beginning a transition to democracy are often polarized, and it is important not to contribute to this. The security sector in particular will be a target of politicians who want to politicize it. Thus, the actions of security sector leaders have broad implications for democratic norms in a society.

Dr. Siegle identifies three primary lessons for security sector professionals in a democratic transition:

1) Don't add fuel to the fire.
2) Maintain an apolitical posture for the security sector.
3) Actively engage the transition to enhance the process of institution-building.

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