Why Almost Everything You Think about Protests in Africa is Wrong

Episode 21 of the People, Power, Politics podcast features a fascinating discussion about protests in Africa based on a new Journal of Democracy article.

Man talking on microphone with people listening and and lady with a briefcase

For decades, media and academic analysis of African politics has emphasised instability, political violence, and male dominance. Yet a brilliant new article by Zoe Marks for the Journal of Democracy entitled “African Popular Protest and Political Change” reveals that in fact Africa stands out as the region globally with the largest number of nonviolent campaigns both in the 1990s and since. What is more, these nonviolent movements have been more likely to include women than those in other parts of the world and are particularly youthful. Listen as CEDAR’s Nic Cheeseman talks to Zoe Marks about her findings, and why non-violent protests with extensive women’s participation are more likely to succeed.

To listen to the full episode, tune in on your favourite podcast streaming platform or visit the episode page.

People, Power, Politics brings the latest insights into the factors that are shaping - and re-shaping - our political world by talking to leading thinkers from across the globe. Join us to better understand the factors that promote and undermine democratic government around the world and follow us on Twitter at @CEDAR_Bham!

If you would like to speak on the podcast, please contact Petra Alderman at p.alderman@bham.ac.uk.