Abstract
In the political development of post‐communist Central Asia, the role of elections (or pseudo‐elections) has been of particular interest. Using the rhetoric of consultation, leaders in the region have held a series of elections, plebiscites and referendums, yet it is clear that in none of these were democratic norms fully adhered to and that in many the results were predetermined. Given that they have failed to offer the people adequate representation, or create salient political institutions, the purpose of these exercises can be seen in terms of affirming the positions of elites, recruiting ‘talented political entrepreneurs’, and anaesthetizing the population. These features are explained by the various constraints on political development in Central Asia, including elite concerns over stability, perceived developmental needs, the weakness of a ‘modern’ civil society with its particular values, and international factors.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Journal of Communist Studies and Transition Politics
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
