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Dynamics of the democratic system in small states. The Eastern Caribbean model
Abstract
This study examines the governing structure and systems of the small independent states of the Eastern Caribbean which are all former British colonies. The states which are the subject of this study are: Antigua, Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, St. Kitts/Nevis and the dependent colony of Montserrat. The political model that has emerged in that region since independence is one characterized by a fairly clear and relatively high degree of functional specificity of structure. Legislation is vested in the hands of a freely elected parliament, policy development and decision-making is the function of the Prime Minister and the executive cabinet. On the surface, the model appears to be structured along western democratic standards, but in reality it is distinctly unique. This study will examine the major differences that exist between the Eastern Caribbean model and other western models. The absence of a historical traditional society in the region, it's small size, and a history of British domination has resulted in a system which manifests a strong level of stability, but nonetheless has an equally strong authoritarian governance structure. The existing theories on development and modernization do not adequately explain the idiosyncrasies of the Eastern Caribbean model. Although geographically located in the larger Caribbean area, these small states of the Eastern Caribbean have developed a system of government that differ from the larger territories. This study is meant to examine and analyze the components and characteristics of that model.
Subject Area
International law
Recommended Citation
Peters, Donald Collin, "Dynamics of the democratic system in small states. The Eastern Caribbean model" (1991). Doctoral Dissertations Available from Proquest. AAI9120927.
https://scholarworks.umass.edu/dissertations/AAI9120927