Popular Politics and the Path to Durable Democracy

The book "Popular Politics and the Path to Durable Democracy" by Mohammad Ali Kadivar examines how prolonged grassroots mobilization lays the foundations for durable democratization. He analyzes over one hundred democratic transitions in eighty countries between 1950 and 2010 and finds that more robust democracies emerge from lengthier periods of unarmed mobilization. Kadivar also investigates five case studies to explore the underlying mechanisms, revealing that organization building during the years of struggle develops the leadership needed for lasting democratization and strengthens civil society after dictatorship.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 22 November 2022
Publisher: Princeton University Press

When the Arab Spring swept through the Middle East, the world seemed poised for a wave of democratization. However, the failure of many of these uprisings has highlighted the numerous obstacles that lie on the path to democracy. In his groundbreaking book, Popular Politics and the Path to Durable Democracy, Mohammad Ali Kadivar delves into the factors that determine the success or failure of democratization. Through a comprehensive analysis of over one hundred democratic transitions in eighty countries between 1950 and 2010, Kadivar sheds valuable light on how prodemocracy mobilization impacts the trajectory of new democracies.

Kadivar's research reveals that the most durable new democracies arise from prolonged episodes of unarmed mobilization. He analyzes these transitions in depth, examining the role of organization building during the years of struggle in developing the leadership necessary for lasting democratization and strengthening civil society after dictatorship.

In addition to his empirical analysis, Kadivar also presents five case studies—South Africa, Poland, Pakistan, Egypt, and Tunisia—to further explore the underlying mechanisms of democratization. Through these case studies, he identifies the factors that contribute to the success or failure of popular movements, such as the role of social movements, political parties, and civil society organizations.

One of the key insights of Popular Politics and the Path to Durable Democracy is its challenge to the prevailing wisdom in American foreign policy that democratization can be achieved through military or coercive interventions. Kadivar argues that lasting change arises from sustained, nonviolent grassroots mobilization. He emphasizes the importance of building popular support and fostering a sense of ownership among citizens, which can ultimately lead to democratic transformation.

The book also offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that new democracies face. Kadivar discusses the importance of consolidating democratic gains, addressing social and economic inequality, and promoting political stability. He also highlights the role of civil society in promoting democratic values and institutions and the need for international support in fostering democratic development.

In conclusion, Popular Politics and the Path to Durable Democracy is a groundbreaking work that provides a comprehensive understanding of the factors that shape the success or failure of democratization. Through his empirical analysis and case studies, Kadivar offers valuable insights into the mechanisms of popular mobilization and the challenges and opportunities that new democracies face. The book challenges the prevailing wisdom in American foreign policy and emphasizes the importance of nonviolent grassroots mobilization in achieving lasting democratic change. This book is a must-read for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of democracy and the role of popular movements in shaping political outcomes.

Dimension: 235 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691229126