Political Regimes and Social Well-Being in the Sahel: An Analysis of Gendered Development and Children's Education

<p>This thesis explores how divergent governance structures in the Sahel, specifically in Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, and Senegal, affect the region's human development. Emphasizing gendered vulnerabilities and education, the research examines how political structures and leadership priorities deeply influence access to education and healthcare, specifically for women.</p> <p>Authoritarian regimes often centralize power and prioritize regime stability over public welfare, leading to chronic underfunding of education and health services. In Mali and Burkina Faso, repeated coups and insecurity have affected schools and hospitals, disproportionately affecting girls and displaced women. Chad's one-party dominance reflects how systemic exclusion and poor service delivery entrench cycles of gender inequality and underdevelopment. In contrast, Senegal's relatively stable democratic governance has allowed for participatory education reform and some progress in maternal healthcare, though disparities and structural challenges remain.</p> <p>Using a mixed-methods approach, this study draws on data from global organizations and local accounts to show how government decisions ripple through everyday lives. It argues that governance is not just about political power but about who has access to dignity, opportunity, and safety. The thesis emphasizes that leadership rooted in inclusion, transparency, and service is essential for sustainable development. It also acknowledges the colonial legacies that have shaped present systems and argues for reform that centers the needs of marginalized communities, especially women and children.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of International Affairs (M.I.A.)

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

International Relations

Year dc:date.available

2025

Author dc:creator

• Diarra, Binta FV

Contributors dc:contributor

• Nicholas Smith
• Jean Krasno

• Military Coups
• Sahel
• Maternal Health
• Education
• Development
• Arts and Humanities

Repository record dc:identifier

https://academicworks.cuny.edu/cc_etds_theses/1199

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:academicworks.cuny.edu:cc_etds_theses-2311