The African Studies Program focuses on key political, economic and social questions in contemporary Africa. The challenges facing Africa are among the most acute in the developing world, and the region has compelled attention from the international community. The SAIS program covers the domestic and global context of African development, drawing on comparative approaches from the social sciences, along with extensive contextual knowledge of African countries. The study of Africa is organized along three broad themes: Governance The establishment of capable, effective, and legitimate government is among the most central dilemmas in post-colonial Africa. The study of governance includes themes of state formation; institutions; authoritarianism and democracy; public policy and administration; civil society and political participation; and the management of heterogeneous societies. We trace the historical origins of African states, their formation under colonial rule, and the difficulties of building public power and authority in independent Africa. Issues such as political reform, the rule of law, corruption, social diversity and federalism, and popular engagement in politics are important elements for consideration. We devote special attention to challenges of democratic change in Africa, and the development of nascent democracies throughout the region. Development The study of development includes economic growth and structure; social provisions and public welfare; the interplay of domestic and global markets; and the institutional foundations of economic performance. We are concerned with the colonial foundations of contemporary African economies, the region’s position in the world economy, and contemporary patterns of production, investment and trade. Africa’s prolonged economic stagnation, and efforts at economic revival, form another major theme. The role of governance and the development of institutions are important elements of economic change. The crucial issues of poverty, inequality, gender disparities, HIV/AIDS, and services such as education and health, are central to the study of development. We consider the strategic options of African states under conditions of globalization. Security Security is a fundamental condition for effective governance and development. Since the end of the Cold War, the region has reflected widespread threats to national stability and human security. Failing states, interstate wars, and conflicts over natural resources have proliferated throughout the continent. Ethnic, religious and regional violence is a common syndrome, while in many countries criminality reaches through society and infuses the state. The study of security in Africa thus has important global and domestic aspects. The nature of the contemporary international order and regional security arrangements provide central themes. The evolution of state power is a crucial focus. We also study the origins and changing patterns of instability in the region, and mechanisms for conflict mitigation. The course offering in African Studies reflect these areas of study. The curriculum includes courses on post-colonial Africa politics; democratization; economic development; sovereignty and conflict; ethnic relations; social protest and revolt; US and African foreign policies; and foreign aid. In addition, courses are regularly offered on African international relations, political thought, and politics and development in major sub-regions of the continent. The program’s teaching and research consider Africa in broader perspective. The faculty applies leading concepts of comparative and international analysis as a foundation for understanding African realities. Both theory and practice serve as a basis for sound policy analysis. Students have exposure to regular forums, guest lectures, and conferences on African issues. Internships and overseas research opportunities are also available. For more information about the African Studies Program at SAIS please contact: Dr. Peter Lewis
Director
African Studies Program
The Johns Hopkins University-SAIS
Office 715
1717 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20036
plewis18@jhu.edu
202-663-5681 (office)
202-663-5683 (fax) Shawnetta M. Jackson
Administrative Coordinator
African Studies Program
The Johns Hopkins University-SAIS
Office 716
1717 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20036
smjackson@jhu.edu
202-663-5676 (office)
202-663-5683 (fax)
| 
