Political systems

About this guide

Political systems are the formal and informal political processes by which decisions are made concerning the use, production and distribution of resources in any given society. Formal political institutions can determine the process for electing leaders; the roles and responsibilities of the executive and legislature; the organisation of political representation (through political parties); and the accountability and oversight of the state. Informal and customary political systems, norms and rules can operate within or alongside these formal political institutions. The development of democratic political systems that provide opportunities for all, including the poor, to influence decision-making, is a critical concern for donors.

This guide considers some of the key questions about how political systems evolve, how they can best foster democratic and inclusive politics, and - crucially for development practitioners - under what conditions they most effectively promote poverty reduction. It focuses on strengthening the accountability, responsiveness and effectiveness of political systems and political governance, and includes guidance and case study materials. The GSDRC’s guides on Political Economy Analysis and Voice and Accountability also deal with these issues.

This guide was prepared by Zoë Scott and Claire Mcloughlin. The GSDRC appreciates the contributions of Professor Brian Smith (Department of Politics, University of Exeter), Dr Martin Rew (International Development Department, University of Birmingham), and Stefan Kossoff (Politics and the State Team, DFID). Comments, questions or documents for consideration should be sent to enquiries@gsdrc.org.

Latest additions

The following document summaries were added in November 2009:

• NDI, 2008, ‘Assessing Women’s Political Party Programs: Best Practices and Recommendations’, National Democratic Institute, Washington
• Trebilcock, M. and Chitalkar, P., 2009, ‘From Nominal to Substantive Democracy: The Role and Design of Election Management Bodies’, The Law and Development Review, vol. 2, issue 1
• GSDRC, 2008, ‘Lessons Learned on Parliamentary Strengthening’, Helpdesk Research Report, GSDRC, Birmingham
• Young, D., 2009, ‘Is Clientelism at Work in African Elections?  A Study of Voting Behaviour in Kenya and Zambia’, Working Paper no. 106, Afrobarometer
  

New additions