ABSTRACT
The French colonial administration provided little opportunity for the development of serious democratic institutions in Senegal. Although many African nations are engaged in the process of democratization, Senegal is one of a handful generally considered to be making significant progress in the transition to a fully democratic state. Since the 1980s Senegal has been troubled by a secessionist movement in its southernmost region, the Casamance, which is separated from the main body of Senegal by the Gambia. The modern political party system in Senegal was heavily influenced by close links with French political parties, especially after the establishment of the Fourth Republic following World War II. The course of political reform and democratization during the 1980s and 1990s has been influenced by other developments. Among the most important have been: the secessionist movement in the Casamance; devaluation; administrative reform; and decentralization.
