Satisfaction with democracy in Sub-Saharan Africa: Assessing the effects of system performance

Abstract

This paper examines the relationship between system performance and satisfaction with democracy in sub
Saharan African countries. On the basis of comparable survey data from the third round of Afrobarometer from
2005, we have assessed a number of economic and political performance indicators. In doing this, we employ an
elaborate theoretical framework and multilevel analysis. The results show that system performance is indeed
related to levels of satisfaction with democracy. Both micro-level and macro-level, economic and political
variables are important in relation to the differences in the African citizens’ satisfaction with democracy. More
particularly, the macro-level variables economic growth and respect for the rule of law are positively associated
with satisfaction with democracy. On the micro-level, the citizens’ positive evaluations of their own as well as
the national economic situation increases satisfaction, while unequal treatment under the law and, first and
foremost, poor election quality show negative effects. Thus, even under economic hardship, satisfaction with
democracy may persist if the citizens think that fundamental democratic principles are respected. On the other
hand, dissatisfaction is likely to take root if the citizens think that those principles are not respected.