The Role of the Transitional Leader: A Comparative Analysis of Adolfo Suárez and Boris Yeltsin

Abstract

The role of leadership in transitional regimes is an issue that requires closer examination, given the ability of the leader to shape and determine the direction of the regime. This paper seeks to delineate some common features of leadership during such regimes and the factors influencing the ability of leaders to manipulate and shift the direction of the process. To illustrate, it adopts a comparative analysis of the leadership of Adolfo Suárez (Spain) and Boris Yeltsin (Russia). It will be shown that, despite the different outcomes of these cases, there are clear similarities that point to the existence of a form of transitional leadership. Central to the paper is an adoption of the notion of structure and agency to determine the extent actors in this position can affect change within the constraints faced.

Unbuilding from the Inside: Leadership and Democratization in South Africa and South Korea

“…Despite the differences that characterize military and one-party regimes, it became apparent that in all four areas the leaders faced broadly similar structural constraints and enabling factors, possibly pointing to the similarities in the eventual outcome observed. Agency still played a role in determining how they chose to engage with the context, but this was shaped very clearly by the structure (see also O’Brien 2007). At different points in the liberalization of their regimes the leaders were faced with decisions on whether to continue with the liberalization or roll back some of the gains.…”

“…Botha was partially incapacitated by a stroke. Emerging from within the apparatus of the state provided them with opportunities to recognize the need for change and make the decisions to facilitate it (on the similar case of Adolfo Suárez see O’Brien 2007). Their ability to reform the respective systems and control the process was shaped by the environment, acting as a limiting factor on their exercise of agency.…”

“… 5 There is a parallel in Spain, with Suárez’s ability to encourage Los Cortes Generales to support reform that saw many of its members lose their positions (O’Brien 2007). …”

“…Individual leaders play an important role in initiating and directing the democratization process, with their actions shaping the ensuing regime (O’Brien 2007, 2010). Recent events during the Arab Spring and the colour revolutions have raised questions regarding the importance of popular protest in bringing about change (Bunce and Wolchik 2011; Springborg 2011; Volpi 2013).…”

Burns, Senge, and the Study of Leadership

“…These articles have a fairly narrow focus in their discussions without reference to the complexity of Burns' thought. These may also include brief discussions of transforming and transactional leadership, the importance of leaders' character, and ethical issues of leadership (Ahn, Ettner, & Loupin, 2011;Alimo-Metcalfe & Alban-Metcalfe, 2005;Andersen, 2016;Baker, 2007;Balda & Mora, 2011;Boje & Rhodes, 2005;Bolden & Gosling, 2006;Collinson, 2012;Ford & Harding, 2018;Frawley, 2009;Gavan O'Shea, Foti, Hauenstein, & Bycio, 2009;Groves, 2014;Guthrie, Shields, & Zernick, 2014;Hofman, 2008;Ilies, Judge, & Wagner, 2006;Kempster, Jackson, & Conroy, 2011;Malakyan, 2014;Matthews, 2008;Middlebrooks & Haberkorn, 2009;Mir, 2010;Mohr, 2013;Moss & Ritossa, 2007;Nye, 2014;O'Brien, 2007;Olivier, 2012;Peele, 2005;Popa, Hazel, Whatley, Andenoro, & Crandall, 2011;Redekop, 2016;Song, Kang, Shin, & Kim, 2012; Spector, 2016;Tafvelin, Armelius, & Westerberg, 2011;Wilson, 2013;Woods, 2007;Zhu, Riggio, Avolio, & Sosik, 2011).…”