What Are Common Causes of Political Instability?
Political instability can be caused by many factors, including conflict between rival parties, insufficient resources and the proximity to other nations in conflict. Political instability occurs when there is a sudden change. This sudden change can leave citizens in doubt about their nation’s situation and may lead to revolt.
Many of the nations with the greatest amount of political instability are found in Africa and the Middle East and share several characteristics. Political instability can be caused by the general population when they feel their rights are being restricted or they are unhappy with their circumstances, such as mass unemployment. A nation’s leadership can be responsible for political instability when they hold onto power for too long amidst opposition or enact controversial legislation.
Political instability can also be caused by conflict between two or more ethnic groups within a nation or region. An example of this is the Balkans, most notably the conflict between Croatia and Serbia. This conflict led to the disintegration of Yugoslavia and remains a security issue for the other European nations. While the solution to political instability varies by case, methods used to reduce it include pressure from the international community and improved educational systems.
