This distinction is relevant because if the reason for military rule support is cultural, then societies will continue to endorse authoritarian regimes. Out of 38 countries, only four show decreasing support for military rule since 2000, whereas 34 show higher support for higher military rule than in 2000. Reasons to support military ruleThe analysis points to three conclusions:In sub-Saharan Africa, the legitimacy of military rule is mainly based on institutional performance and economic management. In North Africa, institutional performance plays a role but authoritarian personality plays a larger role in the support for military rule. Those with higher level of education, according to survey data, show higher level of democratic endorsement.

Source: The North Africa Journal August 20, 2023 10:11 UTC