Uganda, Ethiopia, and Eritrea are among the most dynamic countries in Africa. Their success in reconstructing war-devastated economies and restoring a degree of stability has won them international praise. But their aggressive foreign policies and their reluctance to yield to international pressure for a quick transition to democracy raise the possibility that they will sink into a new cycle of war and economic decay.

What positive role can the international community play in countries where trends are so contradictory? This question will confront the United States - and not only in Africa - with increasing frequency. Africa's New Leaders: Democracy or State Reconstruction? is an important resource for policy makers and others forced to deal with countries where democratic change is both complex and protracted.