Essay Topics
You will choose one of the following topics, which are designed to enhance your understanding of African political economy, societies and government as well as some important challenges facing the continent.
You are urged to make a copy of your paper before submitting it. It is also strongly recommended that you keep copies of all your research notes and drafts in case you are asked.
1. Is there a successful democratic transition in Africa? Compare and contrast two African countries where democracy has progressed and might be irreversible. You can compare one francophone country with an Anglophone country.
2. "African Problems, African Solutions". Explore African major initiatives and hindrances to address one of the following problems: a) intra-state/civil conflicts; or b) climate change and food security
3. Is the African continent changing its Foreign Relations? Analyze critically the growing economic and political ties between African countries and emerging economies with a focus on Afro-Indian relations or Sino-African relations.
4. From Afro-pessimism to Afro-optimism? Analyze the performance of two fast growing economies in Africa: Rwanda, Ghana, Ethiopia, and Mozambique. Is this growth a myth or a reality?
5. Women and African democratization: Have democratic reforms contributed to empowering women in Africa? Be sure to support your thesis with case studies from two African nations.