Book Endorsements

Book Endorsements, Voices of the People

Half a century after independence in 1974, Guinea-Bissau remains one of the poorest countries in the world, marked by chronic poor governance and political instability. Against this backdrop, what do the citizens themselves think of their country's situation? What potential for change can be discerned in their attitudes?

Answers were sought through an unprecedented study. The results, presented in this book, provide a unique and fascinating insight into the historical experience of Guinea-Bissau. In the picture that emerges, the country stands out in two dimensions: widespread mistrust of its government versus social tolerance and openness to local cooperation. As the concluding chapter explains, this situation underscores the potential for improving developmental performance by strengthening local governance.

The book presents a rich mosaic of chapters, written by experts, on the history, social structure, cultural and religious life, politics, state, economy and living conditions of Guinea-Bissau, concluding with an analysis of the serious disjuncture between state and society in this country. Together, they provide a context for understanding the popular sentiments captured by the Voices of the People initiative.

Lars Rudebeck. Uppsala University, Sweden

This book offers powerful insights that enrich our understanding of Guinea-Bissau. From above, the image of a country is like the bones of a skeleton. It takes the views of the people, which is what this book has to offer, to add flesh to the bones and thus appreciate the body in all its splendor.

Elísio Macamo. University of Basel, Switzerland

This volume provides an original reading of Guinea-Bissau's society and politics. The study challenges orthodox thinking and calls for a new system of governance, based on African ideas and experiences. It invites us to rethink institutions so that they have credibility and legitimacy in the eyes of ordinary citizens. It is a must-read book.

Demba Moussa Dembele. ARCADE, Dakar, Senegal

As the initiator of a favorable environment for research in Guinea-Bissau, I have sadly witnessed developments in the opposite direction over the last few decades. This is one of the reasons why I welcome the publication of this work, which contributes to a deeper understanding of research methods capable of influencing public policies in the country. A salute to the authors for offering us a palette of ideas capable of interpreting the dreams and realities of the real country.

Carlos Lopes. University of Cape Town, South Africa