2004–2005 Essay Contest Topic
Transitions to Democracy

2004-2005 Essay Topic: Transitions to Democracy The new topic, "Transitions to Democracy," examines elements and actions necessary for transitions to democracy to result in peace.

Democracy embraces political conflict — the conflict of ideas, competition for power, the struggle for influence. Open, stable democracies like the United States are able to manage such conflict non-violently because of strong institutions, separation of powers, rule of law, civil society, a free press, accountability through regular elections, and multiple opportunities for citizen engagement with the government. For nations in transition to democracy from authoritarian systems or dictatorships, it is a daunting challenge to democratize peacefully. Institutionalizing democratic principles within societies lacking strong institutions can exacerbate conflict and political competition that can rip a country apart

The process of democratization is particularly difficult when a country is emerging from a conflict. The transition to democracy, in combination with other factors, can often contribute to violent conflict, especially in societies that do not have the capacity to cope with conflict through non-violent means. In some cases, premature elections have promoted politicians who exclusively represent the narrow interests of their own ethnic group or class, thus exacerbating ethnic cleavages and economic polarization. In Bosnia, Rwanda, and Angola for example, premature elections contributed to the collapse of a fragile peace and heightened internal divisions.

Inclusiveness, equality and reliance upon laws and institutions-rather than on individual leaders—are critical components of democratic societies. Creating the institutions and political culture that support democratic politics requires time and confidence in governing authorities. A slow transition that allows time for developing confidence in new institutions and policies is often necessary for stability. In South Africa and in some Latin American countries, a slow transition led eventually to a new constitution or to new power-sharing political arrangements among the different groups. The experience of some countries is that moving too fast toward democracy is a very destabilizing process. New governments often face expectations of quick results, immediate expansion of political participation, and instant prosperity. Responding to these expectations—or failing to respond to them—may destroy the weak consensus to stop fighting as groups fear they will be excluded from the post-war gains.

In a 1500-word essay, select two countries—outside of the United States—that have sought a transition to democracy. In one of the cases, a democratic regime emerged; in the other no democratic regime was created. At least one of the cases should be post-Cold War. For each case, describe the process of democratization. What factors led to democratization? How important were external elements or actors? In each case, analyze whether democratization contributed to a sustained peace or to conflict. What other factors, in concert with democratization, contributed to the resulting peace or conflict? Based on your analysis of the two cases, what advice do you have for the international community as to the proper sequence of actions that would provide for a smooth transition to democracy? What other elements should accompany democratization efforts to ensure a successful political transition that can sustain peace?

The 2004–2005 Teaching Guide on Transitions to Democracy will be available soon. The guide for the 2003–2004 contest on Rebuilding Societies After Conflict is still available.