Resisting Autocratization in Polarized Societies: the West African Experience

The rise of autocratization in West Africa has sparked concerns about democratic backsliding in the region. This study examines the dynamics of resisting autocratization in polarized societies, with a focus on West Africa. Through a comparative analysis of case studies in Ghana, Nigeria and Senegal, this research explores the strategies and challenges faced by civil society Organizations, opposition parties and social movements as they attempt to counter autocratization. To what extent do deep-seated polarization, institutional weaknesses and external factors explain the failure of resistance against autocratization in West African countries? How do the activities of civil society organizations and grassroots movements contribute to resisting autocratization in West Africa? The paper adopted qualitative research method which drew data from secondary sources of data collection. Social Movement Theory was adopted as a framework of analysis. The findings show that inclusive leadership, strategic coalition-building, and innovative civil engagement is crucial in resisting autocratization. The study also reveals the deep-seated polarization, institutional weaknesses and external factors in West Africa. The study recommends among others that: the regional umbrella body ECOWAS should encourage regional cooperation by fostering collaboration among West African States to address shared democratic challenges, and support democratic resilience by providing targeted assistance to civil society Organizations, opposition parties and democratic institutions. Citizens should actively participate in public discourse, elections and civic activities as well as support democratic movements by amplifying the works of civil society and social movements resisting autocratization.