Diverging Visions on Political Conditionality: The Role of Domestic Politics and International Socialization in French and British Aid

Abstract

This article shows that and explains why the United Kingdom has internalized political conditionality to a larger extent than France. The assessment part is based on the analysis of policy documents, international agreements, and two “hard” cases (Mozambique and Zimbabwe). Variation between the two countries is explained by the existence of clearer lines of accountability for British aid decision-makers, stricter scrutiny by British media, and stronger social pressure from Nordic donors. Evidence does not support the explanatory power of material interests, party politics, level of parliamentary control, and socialization processes within the Commonwealth (versus the International Organization of La Francophonie).

Keywords: aid; political conditionality; human rights; Europe; United Kingdom; France