‘Who is patriotic, who is not’? Enactment of patriotism law in Zimbabwe

Abstract

ABSTRACT Scholars have long been interested in understanding whether patriotism or patriotic history can be imposed upon citizens. This raging debate has been evident in both developed and developing countries invoking sentiments around the role of patriotism, identity and nationalism in nation-building. Drawing on the Zimbabwean case study, this article examines the current efforts by the ZANU-PF led regime to legislate patriotism through an Act of Parliament. The article contends that patriotism is a degree, sense of love for and pride in one’s country that resides in citizenry’s hearts and minds and thus cannot be thrust or foisted unto them through coercive measures including national legislation. In contributing to the social identity and patriotism literature, the article examines whether patriotism infused through a coercive approach will succeed in inculcating a sense of pride, self-love, and respect for the country.