How Coups Shape Africans’ Views on Political Participation

• In Event: Elections and Politics in Africa

Abstract

More than a dozen countries in sub-Saharan Africa experienced successful coups d’etat in the past 10 years. While research has highlighted several macro-political effects of coups, we do not know much about how the mass public might adjust their political behavior and efficacy in post-coup environments. This question is essential for understanding the political foundation of post-coup regimes as well as the long-term trajectory of the societies they govern. We approach the issue by considering regime characteristics prior to coup events, positing that environments of repression before the occurrence of coups shape post-coup political attitudes and behavior. Using multi-level analysis techniques and multiple rounds of Afrobarometer data from seven African countries, we find that the effects of coups on participation vary considerably, both according to individual experiences with repression and regime characteristics. Broader implications suggest that local perspectives on national political questions matter and international responders to coups like the African Union should ensure their policy prescription centre on reforms that avail a more conducive and sustainable environment for citizens’ political participation.

Authors

• Ann Kryzanek Karreth, Ursinus College

• Johannes Karreth, Ursinus College

• Mwita Chacha, University of Birmingham