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Ambivalent outcomes of statebuilding: multiplication of brokers and educational expansion in the Democratic Republic of Congo (2004–13)

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  • Cyril Owen Brandt

Abstract

This empirical article explores how the interaction between two key aspects of statebuilding (democratisation and decentralisation) and existing forms of governance in the Democratic Republic of Congo led to a multiplication in numbers of political and administrative brokers. Furthermore, it investigates how these brokers construct their roles well beyond official mandates. Responding to local demands, they circumvent formal procedures in order to obtain decrees accrediting public primary and secondary schools. As a result, the number of public schools has almost tripled since the early 2000s. Building on qualitative and quantitative empirical data, the article thus reveals that democratisation and decentralisation can reproduce clientelist structures. However, it also uncovers changing socio-spatial dynamics: certain historically neglected and conflict-affected districts have particularly benefited from brokers’ involvement. Despite these positive aspects, the article further illustrates how these outcomes counteract other central administrative and political objectives.

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  • Cyril Owen Brandt, 2017. "Ambivalent outcomes of statebuilding: multiplication of brokers and educational expansion in the Democratic Republic of Congo (2004–13)," Review of African Political Economy, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 44(154), pages 624-642, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:revape:v:44:y:2017:i:154:p:624-642
    DOI: 10.1080/03056244.2017.1367920
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    1. De Herdt, Tom & Olivier de Sardan, Jean-Pierre, 2015. "Real governance and practical norms in Sub-Saharan Africa: the game of the rules," IOB Analyses & Policy Briefs 15, Universiteit Antwerpen, Institute of Development Policy (IOB).
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    Cited by:

    1. Brandt, Cyril Owen, 2019. "The deployment of internally displaced teachers (DR Congo): A “real governance” approach," International Journal of Educational Development, Elsevier, vol. 66(C), pages 147-154.

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