The Hindrance of Oil Wealth on Democratization in the Middle East and North Africa Region

Chisha, Sebastian

The Hindrance of Oil Wealth on Democratization in the Middle East and North Africa Region

Persistent URL

https://dspace.allegheny.edu/handle/10456/56907

Author(s)

Chisha, Sebastian

Date Issued

April 14, 2023

Abstract

This paper explores the impact of oil wealth on democratization, specifically in the Middle East and North Africa region. The analysis is based on three key theories: the repression effect, industrial diversification, and western support. The repression effect refers to how authoritarian regimes may use oil revenues to finance repressive measures and maintain their hold on power. Industrial diversification suggests that countries with diverse economies are less dependent on oil revenues and may be more likely to democratize. This is illustrated through oil dominance over all other means of revenue. Finally, western support refers to how western powers may support authoritarian regimes in oil-rich countries in order to protect their economic interests. The case studies that were used were of Saudi Arabia and Jordan in which provided examples of how these theories apply in practice. Saudi Arabia has maintained its authoritarian power due to its oil wealth through the use of the repression and illustrated being able to repress people easier, while Jordan, which has a more diversified economy, has experienced more democratic reforms and would have more challenges performing repressive measures. However, both cases have shown to have relationships with common western powers but their different economies illustrate the difference in the support provided. Overall, this paper contributes to our understanding of the political and economic dynamics of oil-producing countries and the challenges in transitioning to democracy.

Major

International Studies

First Reader(s)

Finaret, Chris