The Politics and Government of Lusophone Countries

Ranging from regional powers to small island states, from consolidated democracies to hybrid regimes, from good governance to weak states and petro-states, the Lusophone world represents a diverse and stimulating political context. This course provides a systematic analysis of Lusophone political institutions and behavior, while considering the wider implications of the Lusophone experience. It is organized thematically, with topics including democratization; state structures; political institutions and culture; clientelism; and party systems. Each topic focuses on a set of Lusophone countries. While all Lusophone countries are considered, the cases of Portugal, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau and Angola are particularly emphasized.