ABSTRACT
In the early 1990s, civil society emerged as a central concept informing conversations about African democracy. Many hoped that social organizations and associational life could buttress and sustain democratization processes on the continent, while others raised concerns about the status and potential of civil society. This chapter argues that “civil society” remains a valuable concept in the study of democratization in Africa. Organizations beyond the state are highly relevant for political life, and investigation into their roles is critical to illuminate the trajectories and characteristics of African democracies. Yet scholars must recognize the potential pitfalls involved with the concept, especially those associated with definitional ambiguities and challenges in operationalizing the concept. They also do well to narrow research into specific elements of civil society and pay greater attention to Africa’s emerging public spheres.
