While both countries have established formal civil society organizations (CSOs), the study suggests these groups may have limitations.
A research, based on firsthand observations of multiple elections in both Sierra Leone and Senegal, highlights potential drawbacks of formal CSOs. Their reliance on donor funding can restrict their agendas to priorities set by funders, rather than local needs.
Additionally, their activities may be concentrated in capital cities, neglecting the concerns of citizens in outlying areas. This can lead to a perception that they are less effective in driving meaningful change.
Senegal, according to the study, presents a contrasting approach. Here, informal social groups and activities, even those not explicitly political in nature, play a crucial role. These everyday interactions build social capital – a network of trust, skills, and connections. This capital can then be mobilized for various purposes, including holding the government accountable.
The study cites two recent examples. The successful citizen resistance against former President Abdoulaye Wade’s attempt at a third term in 2012. Moreover, last month’s presidential election witnessed a similar story unfold. Public pressure, built on these informal networks, rejected President Macky Sall’s attempt to influence the succession plan, leading to Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s surprise landslide victory. These instances showcase how informal networks can be a powerful force for political change.
The study delves beyond Senegal, drawing parallels with historical events. It suggests that strong traditions of informal social interaction can be a lasting substitute for formal organizations.
The case of Spain’s transition to democracy in the 1970s is presented as an example – a society lacking robust formal structures used its informal networks to maintain trust and prevent chaos. Similar dynamics were observed in Sierra Leone after the military coup in 1992, where residents drew on their existing social connections to address community needs.
This study underlines the importance of understanding the different ways citizens can participate in their democracies.
While formal CSOs play a role, informal networks can be equally powerful in promoting democratic participation and holding governments accountable.
The contrasting approaches of Senegal and Sierra Leone highlight the diverse ways citizens can shape their political realities.
ABJ/APA