Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and the Changing Nature of African Politics: The Case of the CSO

Abstract

The aim of this article is to analyze critically the implications of Malawi’s changing nature of politics on civil society organizations (CSOs). The article seeks to clarify whether or not the social, political and economic engagement of civil society organizations has contributed to a strengthened relationship between Malawi’ government and its own development agenda, given the CSOs’ dependence on ‘Northern’ aid agencies and/or international NGOs. The article argues that while the change from dictatorial regimes to a multiparty political system has enhanced civil society participation in Malawi’s social, economic and political issues, the CSO–government relationship is still fraught with suspicion and mistrust.

Keywords

Civil society organizations development relationship multiparty political system enabling environment Malawi

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Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and the Changing Nature of African Politics: The Case of the CSO–Government Relationship in Malawi

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