DDRO 23A04 - The Endurance of Constitutions in Illeberal Times: Evidence from the MENA region

This seminar explores the resilience and transformation of constitutionalism during the current illiberal era, with a specific focus on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). It situates constitutional endurance within the broader context of global democratic backsliding, examining how fundamental laws function when the traditional liberal pillars of the rule of law are under pressure. The course analyzes the interplay between formal constitutional texts and the pragmatic realities of governance in a region marked by deep political transitions and systemic instability. Central to the discussion is the paradox of "autocratic legalism": how constitutions are maintained, amended, or weaponized to provide a veneer of legitimacy to illiberal practices. By examining key case studies - ranging from the post-revolutionary shifts in Tunisia and Egypt to the entrenched systems of the Gulf - the seminar investigates the role of judiciaries, military influence, and the strategic use of "emergency" rhetoric to bypass democratic constraints.

1°) Presentation of one of the topics of the course, leading the discussion of the texts and main concepts of the week (20%).

2°) Class participation (engaging in our discussions, activities, and presentations) (20%).

3°) End of term research project, which includes a presentation of your project, and a final take-home essay (60%).