The Role of Public Opinion in Shaping Foreign Policy in A Democracy: A Focus on Nigeria from 2010 - 2025
https://doi.org/10.54012/jssh.v2i1.855
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Keywords:
Nigeria’s Foreign Policy, Democracy, Civil Society, Public Opinion, Liberal Democratic TheoryAbstract
This study examined the influence of civil society, public opinion, the media, and institutional actors on Nigeria’s foreign policy in the Fourth Republic using liberal democratic theory as its analytical framework. Liberal democratic theory emphasizes citizen participation, accountability, transparency, and responsiveness in public policy formulation, including foreign policy. The study investigates the extent to which Nigeria’s foreign policy process reflects these democratic principles in practice. A qualitative research design was adopted, relying on secondary sources such as scholarly books, peer-reviewed journal articles, and policy documents. Data were analyzed through content analysis, focusing on themes of civil society engagement, media influence, legislative oversight, elite decision-making, and public participation in foreign policy. Findings reveal that despite Nigeria’s democratic governance structure, foreign policy formulation remains largely executive-driven and elite-dominated, limiting broad public participation. However, democratic consolidation since 1999 has created opportunities for increased involvement by non-state actors. Civil society organizations have become more active in advocating for human rights, governance reforms, and peacebuilding initiatives, while traditional and digital media platforms have enhanced public awareness and discourse on foreign policy issues. Legislative institutions have also sought to exercise oversight, though their influence remains limited. The study further identifies persistent challenges, including weak mechanisms for incorporating public opinion, inadequate transparency, and the continued concentration of foreign policy authority within the executive branch. It concludes that Nigeria’s foreign policy is gradually evolving toward a more participatory model but has yet to fully align with liberal democratic ideals. The study recommends, among others, strengthening public consultation mechanisms, enhancing legislative oversight, and promoting greater transparency in foreign policy decision-making.
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