The Debate around Civil Society in Africa: A Replica of “Western Civil Society”

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume III, Issue IV, April 2019 | ISSN 2454–6186

The Debate around Civil Society in Africa: A Replica of “Western Civil Society”

Malang B.S. Bojang

Department of Political Science and Public Administration, Kocaeli University, Turkey

Abstract: In search of answers to locate what is wrong with African civil societies, this study seeks to evaluate and critically explore contemporary debates surrounding civil society organizations in Africa. The study also aimed to ascertain whether African civil society organizations are replica of the Western civil societies. Much of the received wisdom on civil society discourse is that it enhances liberal democracy by widening citizens participations in political processes, eradicate poverty and fill the void created by state deficiencies. Yet civil society in many African countries is faced with doubts on its usefulness, origin and application in the continent. These uncertainties surrounding civil society often centered on its legitimacy, autonomy, authority and purpose. In Africa, civil society legitimacy and freedom can only be guarantee if they are transparent and accountable, in other words, they need to be democratic institutions; and they need to address accusations of manipulation for political or personal gain. While this study acknowledged the strength and effectiveness of civil society in Africa but still has a long road ahead to becoming a powerful voice on public policy or enhance democracy in the continent.

Keywords: Africa, African Civil Societies, Democracy, Legitimacy

I. INTRODUCTION

The concept of civil society has become a buzzword in the discussion of democracy and governance in Africa. The third wave of democratization in Africa is built on the renewed trust in the concept of civil society. However, it is understood differently and probably different uses. Arguably, civil society is a Western idea. Its origin can be traced back to both the liberal and Marxist traditions of European political thought(Bratton, 1994). In the 1980s, Eastern Europe saw the massive number of associations as belonging to the civil society as against the state due to the denial of their social reality. De Tocqueville’s emphasis on the significance of voluntary associations in promoting democracy and in Gramsci’semphasis on the role of social institutions in either strengthening or challenging state power (Kennedy, 1991; Rau, 1991; Bratton, 1994). However, similar notion is seen everywhere when countries are faced with the challenge of democracy. Post-independent Africa seem to be affected with one-party rule and the same could be true as seen in Eastern Europe during 1980s.

Read More