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Horizontal inequalities and affirmative action: An analysis of attitudes towards redistribution across groups in Africa

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  • Arnim Langer
  • Frances Stewart
  • Maarten Schroyens

Abstract

Inequalities between ethnic or racial groups, defined as horizontal inequalities, are pervasive and persistent. They persist due to cumulative and reinforcing inequalities arising from unequal access to different types of capital. Affirmative action policies can provide promising opportunities for escaping this inequality trap. However, political support for these policies across a wide range of groups in society is crucial for introducing and maintaining them.

Suggested Citation

  • Arnim Langer & Frances Stewart & Maarten Schroyens, 2016. "Horizontal inequalities and affirmative action: An analysis of attitudes towards redistribution across groups in Africa," WIDER Working Paper Series wp-2016-119, World Institute for Development Economic Research (UNU-WIDER).
    • Handle: RePEc:unu:wpaper:wp-2016-119
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    File URL: https://www.wider.unu.edu/sites/default/files/wp2016-119.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

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