The Palgrave Handbook of Democracy, Governance and Justice in Africa

There is a need for a re-calibration of democratic governance and justice in Africa, particularly in relation to the constitutive demos, human rights, the realization of commitments at various governance levels, and the convergence between these ideations. The post-colonial narrative on democracy has revealed crevices in rule of law, political equality, political participation, political culture, and freedom of the press, and Africa must assert its place on the global scene of democratic governance and justice.

Format: Hardback
Length: 377 pages
Publication date: 04 October 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

The prevailing view suggests that Africa's quest for democratic governance and justice necessitates a significant recalibration, particularly in terms of the constitutive demos, human rights, the fulfillment of commitments at various governance levels, and the harmonization of these ideals. The post-colonial narrative on democracy has exposed certain weaknesses in the rule of law, political equality, political participation, political culture, and freedom of the press. Apart from the fact that these concepts face threats from existing institutional frameworks, they are also increasingly being negotiated across political domains.

A prominent theme in the prevailing narrative is the urgent need for Africa to assert its position on the global stage of democratic governance and justice. However, achieving this goal requires careful consideration of several challenges that need to be addressed during the transition.

One critical aspect is the need to strengthen the rule of law and promote judicial independence. This includes ensuring that laws are applied fairly and consistently, that judicial decisions are impartial and free from political influence, and that the legal system is accessible and accountable to the public.

Political equality is another key dimension of democratic governance. This involves ensuring that all citizens have equal rights and opportunities to participate in the political process, regardless of their gender, race, religion, or social status. This includes promoting fair and transparent elections, ensuring the right to vote and the right to stand as a candidate, and combating discrimination and marginalization.

Political participation is also crucial for the development of democratic societies. This involves engaging citizens in the decision-making process and providing them with the tools and resources to participate effectively. This includes promoting civic education, grassroots organizations, and the media as platforms for citizen expression and engagement.

Political culture is another important aspect of democratic governance. This involves developing a shared understanding of the values and principles that guide political behavior and decision-making. This includes promoting respect for human rights, democracy, the rule of law, and social justice.

Freedom of the press is also essential for the development of democratic societies. This involves ensuring that the media is independent, free, and able to report on important issues without fear of censorship or repression. This includes promoting press freedom, protecting journalists from violence and intimidation, and combating media ownership concentration.

In addition to these challenges, Africa also faces the challenge of regional and international cooperation in promoting democratic governance and justice. This involves working with other countries and international organizations to share best practices, exchange information, and coordinate efforts to address common challenges.

To conclude, Africa's quest for democratic governance and justice requires a comprehensive and sustained effort. This involves strengthening the rule of law, promoting political equality, promoting political participation, promoting political culture, and promoting freedom of the press. It also involves working with regional and international partners to promote democratic governance and justice on a global scale. By addressing these challenges, Africa can assert its place on the global stage of democratic governance and justice and build a more prosperous and inclusive future for its citizens.

Weight: 751g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030740139
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022