Publication

This report explores the effect of ethnic identity on voting choices and party support in in developing countries, characterized by low levels of education and minimal access to the news media. It analyzes the influence of ethno-linguistic and ethno-racial characteristics on identification with the governing party in 12 African states. The authors compare ethnicity with other structural and attitudinal factors commonly used to explain patterns of partisanship. The conclusion of the report summarizes the results and considers their broader implications for understanding the political role of ethnicity within plural societies.