In recent years, the phenomenon of "democratic backsliding" has been observed across the globe. This trend is characterized not by a dramatic, sudden transition into outright dictatorship, but rather by a modern shift in how power is maintained: while the formal institutional frameworks of democracy̶such as elections and the law ̶remain intact, incumbent governments strategically manipulate them to their own advantage. As a case study to examine this global trend, this presentation explores recent political dynamics in Africa. In the past, the primary concern regarding African politics was the dysfunction of democratic institutions.
Today, however, we observe a different challenge: laws and elections, originally designed to limit power and protect citizens, are instead functioning as strategic tools to legally safeguard incumbent regimes and eliminate political opposition. Through these African examples, this session will unpack the critical challenges confronting contemporary democracy.

◆12:10 – 12:15  Introduction
   Session Chair: Associate Professor Fumihiko Yokota (Q-AOS Coordinator)

◆12:15 – 12:40  Seminar
・Speaker: Assistant Professor Yu Ajishi (Kyushu University Institute for Asian and Oceanian Studies)
・Title: "Democratic Backsliding and African Politics: The Autocratic Use of Democratic Institutions"

◆12:40 – 12:50  Q&A

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