ABSTRACT

This chapter discusses the role of stateness in theories of democracy and democratization and that argues in favour of broadening the concept to increase its theoretical leverage. This is followed by an analysis of the policies of Western donors and international organizations towards transition countries in central and Eastern Europe (CEE) and sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The definitive treatment of this issue remains that of Linz and Stepan who assert that no modern polity can become democratically consolidated unless it is first a state. Political actors in the US, the EU and elsewhere also need to realize that an interest in promoting market economies is also well-served by strengthening state institutions that are able to guarantee property rights, ensure the rule of law and provide regulation and oversight. The chapter concludes that both research and policy need to systematically integrate questions of state capacity into their work in order to avoid repeating past mistakes.