Looking from the outside in : the impact of socio-economic development on political transition : the case of the Arab Republic of Egypt

Abstract

The types of development of post-colonial states is a constantly debated topic in International Relations. Various theories have conceptualised the topic in their own models and structures, many of which separate economic, social and political development altogether. However, there is not one universally accepted process of development. This dissertation aims to illustrate how socio-economic development impacts political transition by looking at various economic and social factors that can promote or hinder the process of political transition. This study takes a Marxian view, following the economic theories of Rostow and Lewis, to analyse the socio-economic indices that affect political change, such as the economic growth, foreign investment, sectors of the economy, sustainable growth and the distribution of wealth and resources. In turn, these factors have their own impact on population, human development, employment, education and class structure. This dissertation is a desk case study analysis, utilising both qualitative and quantitative data to assess the different variables of development. This study focusses on Egypt as the unit of analysis due to its unique hybrid like regime, which has not fully institutionalised itself into a democracy or an authoritarian state as yet. This paper presents the main literature and theories behind this type of development together with results and reflections on the aforementioned case study.