Uploaded August 2021 | Updated September 2026, 2 hours ago
Africa has long been associated first with colonial rule, followed by authoritarian rule. Some go so far to suggest that like the Chinese, Africans prioritize development over democracy. Extensive polling by Afrobarometer (Africa’s version of Gallup polls) reveals a different narrative. Three Africa experts join the Vail Symposium to discuss the future direction of democracy and autocracy In Africa. Other issues to be addressed include whether democracy is a façade for autocracy and how African nations have addressed corruption.
Africa has long been associated first with colonial rule, followed by authoritarian rule. Some go so far to suggest that like the Chinese, Africans prioritize development over democracy. Extensive polling by Afrobarometer (Africa’s version of Gallup polls) reveals a different narrative. Three Africa experts join the Vail Symposium to discuss the future direction of democracy and autocracy In Africa. Other issues to be addressed include whether democracy is a façade for autocracy and how African nations have addressed corruption.










