Description
Power Sharing seeks to explore the unintended consequences of power-sharing for the communities themselves, their individual members, and for others in society. More specifically, it is distinctive in questioning explicitly whether power sharing: perpetuates inter-communal conflict by institutionalising difference at the political level; inhibits conflict resolution by encouraging extremism; stifles internal diversity; and fails to leave sufficient space for individual autonomy.
This book not only provides a theoretical exploration and critique of these questions, but comprehensively examines specific test cases where power-sharing institutions have been established, including in Northern Ireland, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Macedonia and Lebanon. It also explores such issues as the role of political leaders, human rights instruments, the position of women, and the prospects for reconciliation within such societies. Furthermore it provides a detailed set of policy recommendations to meet the challenges of transition in deeply-divided societies.
About the Author
Ian O'Flynn is Senior Lecturer in Political Theory at Newcastle University. He is a specialist on the nature and requirements of democracy in multicultural and multinational societies. He is the co-editor of Power Sharing (Pluto, 2005) and the editor of The Value and Limits of Rights (Routledge, 2013). David Russell is currently Research Associate at the Centre for Lebanese Studies, Oxford University. He is the co-editor of Power Sharing (Pluto, 2005).
Reviews
'Very current and salient, given the ongoing and burgeoning attempts to effect power-sharing coalitions in divided societies that are the scene of recent conflict' -- Rock Wilford Queens University, Belfast
Book Information
ISBN 9780745322926
Author Ian O'Flynn
Format Paperback
Page Count 240
Imprint Pluto Press
Publisher Pluto Press
Weight(grams) 360g