Large-scale land acquisitions, electoral democracy and rural citizenship in Senegal

My research examines the significance of opposition to large-scale land deals for electoral democracy and citizenship in Senegal. Since 2007, there has been a dramatic surge in land acquisitions in the Global South. These projects, because they often encroach on community farmland and pastures, can profoundly damage rural livelihoods. In Senegal, aggrieved populations across the country have mobilized to prevent the seizure of their land, most of which is managed by elected municipal councils. These protests denote changing representations about the respective rights and responsibilities of the state and individuals. This research project aims to understand rural citizens’ expectations toward their elected officials and measure whether contested land deals lead to party turnover at the local level.

During my stay at the University of Copenhagen, I will analyze qualitative data that I collected in Senegal as part of my postdoctoral fellowship and start drafting a policy report. As an eminent expert on land matters in West Africa, Professor Christian Lund will provide feedback and guidance on my findings, thereby enhancing the breadth of my analysis. The research stay will be the occasion to establish more extensive collaboration with Professor Lund, including the possibility of co-authoring an article.

Faculty Supervisor:

Amy Poteete

Student:

Partner:

University of Copenhagen

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Education

University:

Concordia University

Program: