Ce Qui Reste: Legacies of Decolonization in French Africa
Major
International and Global Studies
Submission Type
Oral Presentation
Area of Study or Work
International Studies, Political Science
Expected Graduation Date
2022
Location
CNS E105
Start Date
4-9-2022 8:30 AM
End Date
4-9-2022 9:30 AM
Abstract
The transition from colonial rule to independence is the subject of much debate among political scientists and international relations theorists. I focus on two specific cases out of French Africa diametrically opposed in their experiences of decolonization. In Guinea, the French left abruptly, taking everything they could carry. In Gabon, they stayed, and continued to direct the country’s politics and economy. I analyze the impacts French actions had on three aspects of the postcolonial societies: rule of law, political participation, and development strategies. Each element is critical for a successful state– institutions must be bound by rules to be trusted by citizens and enterprises, citizens must have a voice (if not necessarily a vote) in government, and the basic needs of the people must be met. I find that while rule of law was very weak in both new states, it failed for different reasons. Political participation was far more genuine in Guinea, even while opposition to the regime was illegal. Despite Guinea’s professed socialism, the development of both countries was engineered to serve those at the top. All told, it seems that whether the French stay or leave, the outcomes are strikingly similar.
Ce Qui Reste: Legacies of Decolonization in French Africa
CNS E105
The transition from colonial rule to independence is the subject of much debate among political scientists and international relations theorists. I focus on two specific cases out of French Africa diametrically opposed in their experiences of decolonization. In Guinea, the French left abruptly, taking everything they could carry. In Gabon, they stayed, and continued to direct the country’s politics and economy. I analyze the impacts French actions had on three aspects of the postcolonial societies: rule of law, political participation, and development strategies. Each element is critical for a successful state– institutions must be bound by rules to be trusted by citizens and enterprises, citizens must have a voice (if not necessarily a vote) in government, and the basic needs of the people must be met. I find that while rule of law was very weak in both new states, it failed for different reasons. Political participation was far more genuine in Guinea, even while opposition to the regime was illegal. Despite Guinea’s professed socialism, the development of both countries was engineered to serve those at the top. All told, it seems that whether the French stay or leave, the outcomes are strikingly similar.