THE ROLE OF CIVIL SOCIETIES IN CAMOROON'S DEMOCRATIC CONSOLIDATION

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Democratic consolidation is a crucial phase in the transition process, characterized by the establishment and stability of democratic structures on a global scale. Democratic transition and consolidation are more likely when civil society constituents have a vested interest in the survival of new structures, validate them, and have the ability to further the state's democratic goals. Interestingly, the current emphasis on civil society in African studies has emerged from the pursuit of consolidating political and economic reforms. In a study by Yudame (2019), it was argued that Africans, who had lost faith in the inefficient and corrupt government, along with the World Bank's focus on promoting private-sector led development, supported a new approach that sought to rebuild the relationship between the state and society. It was hoped that civil society could be strengthened to address the chronic weaknesses of the state, such as poor governance characterized by bureaucratic inefficiency, institutional ineffectiveness, and a lack of accountability, impartiality, and impersonality in public affairs management. This would also help to address the legitimacy crisis. 

Undoubtedly, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have become increasingly important in the development sector. They are highly regarded for their participatory approach and grassroots-driven development initiatives, which have been effective in bringing about positive and significant changes in societies (Banks and Hulme, 2022). In this particular context, CSO refers to the realm of society beyond the government and business sectors. It encompasses a wide range of groups, organizations, and associations that play a role in shaping public life (Cohen and Naidoo, 2019). CSOs can arise in a range of contexts. Some emerge in conflict situations, while others arise in response to societal grievances, basic needs, or the promotion of democracy in totalitarian or dictatorial regimes. Cheeseman (2018) highlights the potential benefits of CSOs engaging in advocacy for reforms. These benefits include reducing conflicts, alleviating poverty, improving service delivery efficiency, promoting public participation, and strengthening democracy. 

Furthermore, CSOs play a crucial role in development by providing a platform for ordinary citizens to express their interests in public life through collective action. According to Burnell and his colleagues (2018), CSOs can be found in industrialized countries without causing any issues. However, when these organizations become excessively powerful in the context of a weak state, they can become highly problematic. Migdal (2020) supports this thesis by asserting that CSOs networks have the potential to transform into criminal organizations, impeding the process of state building and hindering democratic forms of governance. This study aims to define and analyze the role of CSOs as non-state public actors in promoting sustainable development through poverty alleviation and advocacy. It also explores the challenges faced by CSOs in their sphere of operation.

Diamond (2020) argues that in developed economies, civil societies placrucial role in maintaining checks and balances to prevent power abuse, corruption, and authoritarian backsliding. Civil societies play a crucial role in promoting transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. Their advocacy efforts, watchdog activities, and civic education initiatives contribute to the legitimacy and effectiveness of democratic institutions. In addition, civil societies have a vital role in promoting citizen participation and political engagement, which in turn enhances the democratic nature of societies. According to Edwards and Hulme (2021), civil societies play a crucial role in bolstering democratic institutions and processes by ensuring government officials are held accountable for their actions and promoting transparency and accountability in public institutions. According to Tarrow (2019), civil societies serve as platforms for citizens to express their concerns, articulate their interests, and engage in decision-making processes. Civil societies play a crucial role in empowering citizens to exercise their democratic rights and contribute to shaping public policies and priorities. They achieve this through organizing protests, mobilizing voter turnout, and engaging in community development projects. In order to empower citizens and promote political participation, civil society organizations often conduct civic education programs, voter registration drives, and community dialogues, as highlighted by Acho-chi (2019). Civil societies play a crucial role in fostering productive communication and collaboration between citizens and policymakers, which in turn strengthens democratic legitimacy and promotes social cohesion. 

Although civil societies have a vital role in advancing social justice, equity, and human rights, amplifying the voices of marginalized communities, such as women, youth, ethnic minorities, and vulnerable populations and achieving this through legal advocacy, human rights monitoring, and grassroots mobilization. In Cameroon, as in other third world democracies, there has been doubts on the capacity of civil societies to contribute to upholding democratic principles and institutions, strengthening and advancement of democratic governance, fostering a fair and inclusive society by championing the safeguarding of civil liberties, and upholding the rule of law, and promoting respect for human dignity. Sandberg, (2023) maintained that the available data on civil societies in Cameroon is limited, including their contributions and the challenges they face in promoting democratic consolidation. Based on this premise, the researcher focuses on studying this topic. 

1.2 Statement of problem

In recent years, Cameroon has undergone significant political transformations, marked by efforts towards democratic governance and political pluralism. However, despite these endeavors, challenges persist in achieving robust democratic consolidation. One critical aspect hindering this process is the role and effectiveness of civil societies in Cameroon. Civil societies, encompassing non-governmental organizations (NGOs), advocacy groups, and grassroots movements, are essential actors in promoting accountability, fostering civic engagement, and safeguarding human rights within democratic systems (Keane, 2021). However, in Cameroon, civil societies encounter various obstacles that impede their ability to contribute meaningfully to democratic consolidation.

Is is no doubt that civil societies in Cameroon face significant constraints due to restrictive legal frameworks and government regulations (Norris, 2018). The government's imposition of stringent laws, limitations on freedom of association and expression, and harassment of civil society activists curtail the autonomy and operational space of these organizations. Such restrictive measures undermine the ability of civil societies to advocate for political reforms, monitor governmental actions, and hold authorities accountable, thereby hindering the advancement of democratic governance.

Bizarrely, civil societies in Cameroon grapple with resource constraints and funding limitations, which jeopardize their sustainability and effectiveness (Diamond, 2020). Many civil society organizations rely heavily on external donors and the lack of financial sustainability and dependence on external donor funding (Fomunyoh & Ndoh, 2018) further exacerbate the challenges facing civil society organizations in Cameroon (Fomunyoh & Ndoh, 2018). This reliance on external sources of funding undermines the autonomy and independence of civil societies, potentially compromising their ability to act as genuine representatives of citizens' interests and contribute to democratic consolidation.

Furthermore, there is a dearth of empirical research examining the specific strategies, approaches, and interventions employed by civil society organizations in Cameroon to promote democratic consolidation. Without a comprehensive understanding of the factors shaping the effectiveness of civil society initiatives, policymakers and stakeholders lack evidence-based insights to inform the design of policies and interventions aimed at strengthening civil society's role in democratic consolidation. Against this backdrop, the study seeks to fill the gap on the role of civil societies in Cameroon’s democratic consolidation.

1.3 Objective of the study

The aim of this study is focused on the role of civil societies in Cameroon’s democratic consolidation. Specifically, the study seeks to:

To assess whether of civil societies contributes to political development in Cameroon.

To identify the role of civil societies in Cameroon’s democratic consolidation. 

To examine key challenges faced by civil societies operating within Cameroon's political landscape.

To explore strategies for enhancing the role of civil societies in promoting democratic consolidation in Cameroon.

1.4 Research Questions

Does of civil societies contributes to political development in Cameroon?

What are the role of civil societies in Cameroon’s democratic consolidation?

What are the key challenges faced by civil societies operating within Cameroon's political landscape?

 What are strategies for enhancing the role of civil societies in promoting democratic consolidation in Cameroon?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

Ho: There are no significant role civil societies have played in Cameroon’s democratic consolidation.

Ha: There are significant role Civil Societies have played in Cameroon’s democratic consolidation.

1.6 Significance of the Study

Findings of this study will be helpful for various stakeholders, including policymakers, civil society actors, and academics. To policymakers, the study will provide valuable insights fo shaping governance policies. By identifying the challenges faced by Civil Societies and their contributions to political development, policymakers can craft more effective regulations and support mechanisms to enhance civil society's role in governance processes. Furthermore, by examining the challenges and opportunities faced by Civil Societies the study can inform strategies to strengthen democratic institutions and practices in Cameroon. This can lead to a more inclusive and transparent political system.

To civil societies and donors, the study will enlighten them on the need to brace up in the face of challenges and empower them by highlighting their importance and advocating for their rights to operate freely within the legal framework. More so, given the increasing interconnectedness of global issues, the study of NGOs in Cameroon's political development has relevance beyond national borders. Insights gained from this study can inform international donor agencies and organizations about effective strategies for supporting civil society and democratic governance initiatives in other contexts.

Empirically, the study contributes to academic scholarship by filling gaps in knowledge regarding the role of Civil Societies in African political contexts, particularly in Cameroon. It provides a foundation for further research and analysis in the fields of political science, international development, and civil society studies.

1.7 Scope of the Study

The scope of this study borders the role of civil societies in Cameroon’s democratic consolidation. The empirical scope will cover the historical context of NGOs' involvement in Cameroon's political development, tracing their evolution since independence, their contributions and challenges faced by NGOs in the present-day political environment. The geographical scope of the study primarily focuses on selected civil societies organizations in North West region of Cameroon.

1.8 Limitation of the Study

Despite its importance and potential contributions, the study on the significance of civil societies in Cameroon's democratic consolidationmay encounter several limitations. Expediently, the reliance on certain data sources, such as civil societies reports, survey with civil societies representatives, or secondary sources, may introduce bias into the study. As some civil societies may have vested political interests or agendas that could influence the information they provide, leading to potential biases in the analysis. More so, the data used for the analysis was drawn from primary surveys of some international and national civil societies operating in the North-west Province of Cameroon The findings of the study may have limited generalizability beyond the specific context of Cameroon. Despite these limitations, the researcher will acknowledge and address these challenges transparently to enhance the credibility and rigor of the study on NGOs' significance in Cameroon's political development.

1.9 Definition of Terms

Civil Society: Civil society encompasses the array of non-governmental, non-market organizations and institutions that exist outside of the state and the market. It includes NGOs, community-based organizations, advocacy groups, professional associations, religious groups, and other voluntary associations that play a role in shaping public discourse, influencing policy, and promoting societal well-being

Democratic Consolidation: Democratic consolidation refers to the process by which a newly established democracy matures and becomes firmly established within a political system. It encompasses the stabilization of democratic institutions, practices, and norms, leading to a durable and sustainable democratic system.