Africa: Military Coups Promise Change - 4 Ways They Can Leave African Countries Worse Off
This article critically examines military coups in Africa, outlining common justifications like economic mismanagement and political instability, but arguing they often worsen conditions. The author, an economist and legal scholar, identifies four major negative consequences, including the failure to provide institutional stability and the exacerbation of ethnic divisions through practices like 'ethnic stacking.'
Why it matters
Understanding the detrimental long-term effects of military coups is crucial for promoting stable governance, economic development, and human rights in African countries, and for informing international policy responses to such events.
A military coup d' tat is the ouster of an elected president or head of state, usually through the use or threat of force. Putschists (those who participate in a coup) often justify their actions by accusing the government of mismanaging the economy and lowering living standards. Political instability is another reason coup makers give for their actions.
A coup is not necessarily the most effective way to cure economic and political ills, however. Positive change comes instead through institutional reform, structural economic changes and engagement with civil society - including the people who create wealth and economic growth.
Military regimes are usually unable or unwilling to provide the necessary regulatory reforms. They don't provide the legal and institutional stability needed to fight poverty and improve living standards.
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