Understanding Partisanship in Electoral Autocracies: A Study from Cameroon

NORMAN, Okla. — A recent study from the University of Oklahoma explores why individuals in electoral autocracies choose different paths in political engagement. The research examines the motivations behind some people’s active support for political parties while others shy away from involvement.

The study highlights a divide between supporters of ruling parties and those backing opposition groups. Traditionally, scholars believed that individuals align with ruling parties to gain economic advantages, while opposition supporters are driven by ideological beliefs. Yet, this research reveals a more complex social dynamic at play.

Data gathered in Cameroon provides insight into political socialization in an autocratic setting. The findings suggest that social networks significantly influence individual political behavior. According to the study, those in politically homogenous social groups are more likely to exhibit similar partisan views.

“Partisanship can be contagious within social networks,” said Natalie Wenzell Letsa, the lead researcher. “Understanding how connections can shape political identities offers a better framework for studying partisanship in authoritarian regimes.”

The study underscores the importance of social context in shaping political preferences, moving beyond traditional economic or ideological explanations. As such patterns are observed in Cameroon, they may reflect broader trends in other electoral autocracies as well.