44: Comparative Democratization

Bo Rothstein, Goteburg University, Bo.Rothstein@pol.gu.se

The Comparative Democratization section invites panel and paper proposals focusing on the origins, processes, and outcomes of democratization among nations of all regions of the world. Research that is both informed by comparative theoretical perspectives, cross-country data analysis or that are based on field research in specific countries are welcome. We are especially interested in panels that confront different theoretical and methodological approaches to a common problem. For this years meeting, panels and papers on two specific issues are especially welcome. The first is what the current financial and economic crises means for democratization processes in both developing, transition and OECD countries. Is the crisis going to increase the demand for democracy and democratic control over market forces or is the opposite development more likely. Secondly, papers/panels that puts the relation between democratization, the "good governance" agenda and issues about corruption are particularly welcome. In what way is corruption and "bad governance" a threat to the type of political legitimacy that many hope is the result of successful democratization. Can "high quality of government" and successful anti-corruption policies be seen as a substitute for democracy? Or is democracy the best cure against corruption and "bad governance"?