ASSESSING THE INFLUENCE OF INTERNATIONAL ACTORS ON CAMEROON'S POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

Cameroon, located in Central Africa, has seen many internal and foreign forces that have influenced its political environment since its independence from colonial authority in 1960. Throughout the years, the country has seen an intricate interaction of internal factors and outside influences, where foreign entities have had a notable impact on its political evolution (Bryman, 2016). Comprehending the influence's magnitude and character is essential for understanding Cameroon's evolution as a nation-state and for creating effective policies to promote peace, democracy, and sustainable growth. Cameroon's political history involves transitioning from a German colony to a League of Nations mandate region under French and British control, leading to the reunification of the French and British Cameroons in 1961. The nation has had difficulties with governance, democratisation, ethno-linguistic variety, economic growth, and security since then (Dijck, Munck & Terpstra, 2017). Various international players, including governments, intergovernmental organisations, non-governmental organisations, multinational businesses, and regional blocs, have had a considerable impact on Cameroon's political environment via several methods. These impacts include diplomatic interventions, economic aid, military support, commercial links, development assistance, and conditions imposed by international agreements and treaties.

Cameroon's advantageous geographical location, abundant natural resources, and its contribution to regional stability have drawn the interest of both global powers and regional players. This has led to an intricate network of connections, partnerships, and interdependencies that have influenced and been influenced by Cameroon's internal politics. 

International players have a complex and significant impact on Cameroon's political development, which requires thorough examination as stated by Hart (2018). External interventions may support democratisation, institution-building, and human rights promotion, leading to political stability and socio-economic development. Conversely, they may worsen current power imbalances, escalate disputes, and weaken local control and independence. Furthermore, the changing global order, marked by alterations in power relations, rising geopolitical rivalries, and shifting norms and values, adds further complexity to the examination of foreign impact on Cameroon's political progress (Miall, Ramsbotham, & Woodhouse, 2016). 

This study aims to systematically analyse how foreign players impact Cameroon's political growth. This study aims to clarify the mechanisms, motivations, and implications of external influence on Cameroon's political trajectory by using a multidisciplinary approach that includes historical analysis, comparative politics, international relations theory, and empirical case studies (Smith, Kent, & Gordon, 2016). The results of this study are anticipated to enhance our knowledge of the complex forces influencing Cameroon's political environment and guide policymaking initiatives focused on fostering peace, democracy, and sustainable development in the nation.. Therefore, the researcher sought to assess the influence of international actors on Cameroon's political development

1.2 Statement of the problem

Cameroon's political environment has been impacted by several internal and foreign factors, with international entities having a crucial part in moulding its political progress. Although there is a significant amount of literature on Cameroon's political history and its relations with the international community, there is a lack of comprehensive research focusing on the impact of international actors on Cameroon's political development (Ewald & Mhamba, 2019). The main focus of this study is to comprehensively examine and analyse how different international actors, including foreign governments, multinational organisations, and non-governmental entities, impact Cameroon's political development. This study seeks to clarify how foreign entities influence Cameroon's political environment, analyse the effects of this influence on governance systems, policy formulation, and democratisation endeavours, and scrutinise how Cameroonian officials react to external pressures and influences (Barratt & Maddox, 2016). This study aims to fill a gap in the existing literature by examining the intricate relationship between Cameroon's internal politics and its interactions with the global community. It seeks to enhance our comprehension of the various factors influencing political changes in the region.

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to assess the influence of international actors on Cameroon's political development. The specific objectives is as follows

Investigate the extent of international involvement in Cameroon's political development

Analyze the international actors involved in Cameroon's political development. 

Assess the impact of international actors on Cameroon's political processes and institutions. 

Propose strategies aimed at enhancing the contributions of international actors to Cameroon's political development.

1.4 Research questions

The following questions have been prepared to guide the study

What is the extent of international involvement in Cameroon's political development?

Who are the international actors involved in Cameroon's political development?

What are the impact of international actors on Cameroon's political processes and institutions?

What are the strategies aimed at enhancing the contributions of international actors to Cameroon's political development?

1.5 Significance of the study

Government : The study is significant to the government as the actions of international actors can have implications for human rights and governance standards within Cameroon. Studying their influence sheds light on issues such as democracy, rule of law, transparency, and accountability, thereby contributing to efforts to strengthen governance structures and promote human rights.

Academia: Research on the influence of international actors on Cameroon's political development contributes to academic discourse and enriches scholarly understanding of comparative politics, international relations, and African studies. It provides a basis for further research and theoretical development in these fields.

1.6 Scope of the study

The study focuses on assessing the influence of international actors on cameroon's political development. Empirically, the study will investigate the extent of international involvement in Cameroon's political development, analyze the international actors involved in Cameroon's political development, assess the impact of international actors on Cameroon's political processes and institutions and  propose strategies aimed at enhancing the contributions of international actors to Cameroon's political development.

1.7 Limitations of the study

Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. Insufficient funds tend to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature, or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire, and interview), which is why the researcher resorted to a moderate choice of sample size. More so, the researcher will simultaneously engage in this study with other academic work. As a result, the amount of time spent on research will be reduced.

1.8 Definition of terms

Politics: the activities associated with the governance of a country or area, especially the debate between parties having power.

Development: the process of developing or being developed.