This book examines the theoretical and practical relevance and challenges of the consociationalist model of democracy. Since the publication of the Politics of Accommodation (1968) and Democracy in Plural Societies (1977) Professor Lijphart’s theories and practical implementations have played a key role in establishing enduring peace settlements. In this edited volume, scholars and Professor Lijphart himself critically examine the history of consocationalism and its application in areas including Northern Ireland, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Colombia. The book will be essential reading for undergraduate and graduate students of political science, comparative politics, transitional justice and peace studies. It will also be of use to practitioners ranging from diplomats to NGOs who are interested in the practical application of tested models of political accommodation.
Presents a comprehensive and critical overview of the theory and practice of consociationalism
Includes a contribution by Arend Lijphart, who pioneered the original theory
Covers major new cases of consociationalism alongside traditional consociational systems
Michaelina Jakala
consociationalist model of democracy Consociationalism in Europe power-sharing in Europe Political Accommodation in Europe Arend Lijphart’s Theory of Political Accommodation national peace settlements power-sharing in Northern Ireland power-sharing in Bosnia-Herzegovina power-sharing in Colombia theories of power-sharing practicalities of power-sharing identity and consociational societies peace studies and consociationalism democracy