Movimentos sociais e processo democrático na Guiné Bissau: o caso do movimento dos cidadãos conscientes e inconformados (2016-2019)

Abstract

This dissertation aims to analyze the political participation of the Movement of Conscious Dissatisfied Citizens (MCCI) in the democratization process in Guinea-Bissau, covering the period from 2016 to 2019. The research seeks to understand the role played by MCCI in building a democratic culture in the country, considering its political and social relevance. The context motivating this study dates back to 2015 when Guinea-Bissau faced an institutional crisis, leading to the emergence of various social movements engaged in protests to express their dissatisfaction with the national political situation. The importance of this research is intrinsically linked to the discussion on the impact of social movements on the Guinean democratic process, highlighting the potential redefinition of their role as agents of emancipation and democracy builders. The focus is on the analysis of MCCI, addressing its origin, claims, and interaction with the Guinean political society. Additionally, we examine the organizational and political autonomy of the movement in shaping its identity, as well as its impact, or lack thereof, on the democratization process in Guinea-Bissau. The theoretical foundation of this research incorporates works by Teixeira (2015), Gloria Gohn (2014), Nyon´o (2002), Przeworski (1987), Alonso (2009), Dahl (2001), Mendy (1996), Candé Monteiro (2020), Cardoso (1996), among others. We adopt a qualitative case study methodology suitable for exploratory research. Methodological techniques applied include a literature review on social movements and democracy, as well as the use of questionnaires via Google Form among the movement´s members and the general public. The analysis of MCCI´s influence on Guinea-Bissau´s democratization process is grounded in democratization theories, particularly Social Movement Theories such as the political process theory (PPT), resource mobilization (RM), and New Social Movements (NSM). Our central hypothesis argues that MCCI exhibited a notable ability for social mobilization and political participation, playing a significant role in enriching the democratic discourse in Guinea-Bissau. However, it is emphasized that the movement did not sustain a continuous and progressive struggle, resulting in the inability to consolidate its achievements and consequently failing to contribute effectively to the revitalization of Guinean democracy.