Publication
Title
Ambivalent outcomes of statebuilding : multiplication of brokers and educational expansion in the Democratic Republic of Congo (2004–13)
Author
Abstract
This empirical article explores how the interaction between two key aspects of statebuilding (democratisation and decentralisation) and existing forms of governance in the Democratic Republic of Congo led to a multiplication in numbers of political and administrative brokers. Furthermore, it investigates how these brokers construct their roles well beyond official mandates. Responding to local demands, they circumvent formal procedures in order to obtain decrees accrediting public primary and secondary schools. As a result, the number of public schools has almost tripled since the early 2000s. Building on qualitative and quantitative empirical data, the article thus reveals that democratisation and decentralisation can reproduce clientelist structures. However, it also uncovers changing socio-spatial dynamics: certain historically neglected and conflict-affected districts have particularly benefited from brokers’ involvement. Despite these positive aspects, the article further illustrates how these outcomes counteract other central administrative and political objectives.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Review of African political economy. - London, 1974, currens
Publication
London : Carfax , 2017
ISSN
0305-6244 [print]
1740-1720 [online]
DOI
10.1080/03056244.2017.1367920
Volume/pages
44 :154 (2017) , p. 624-642
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
UAntwerpen
Publication type
Subject
External links
Record
Identifier
Creation 01.10.2020
Last edited 22.08.2023
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