The developmental state experience in Ethiopia and Rwanda : lessons for Libya?

Abstract

Libya’s civil war and complicated transitional situation have highlighted the need for Libyans to discuss and agree on a new vision of the country’s political economy and state model which would be less path-dependent and more reflective of Libya’s long-term peace and development needs. This paper examines one of these visions, the developmental state model, and its translation in two countries: Ethiopia and Rwanda. The paper discusses the foundations of a developmental state, followed by its main achievements and shortcomings in Ethiopia and Rwanda, and reflects on how these experiences could be useful in discussions on Libya’s political and economic transition today.