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Marginalisation in the Context of Globalisation: Why Is Africa so Poor?

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  • Rune Jansen Hagen

Abstract

Africa is the poorest region the world, and appears to be slipping further behind. This essay explores and systematises the literature that deals with why this is so. Four major lessons are suggested. The first is that the history and geography of Africa constitute impediments to economic development; the second is that in many African states growth-retarding policies have been pursued; and the third that there are intimate links between the region’s structural characteristics and its policy regimes. These three conclusions hint at an African poverty trap. The fourth lesson is that it is up to the Africans themselves to prove this proposition wrong.

Suggested Citation

  • Rune Jansen Hagen, 2002. "Marginalisation in the Context of Globalisation: Why Is Africa so Poor?," Nordic Journal of Political Economy, Nordic Journal of Political Economy, vol. 28, pages 147-179.
    • Handle: RePEc:noj:journl:v:28:y:2002:p:147-179
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    JEL classification:

    • O1 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development
    • O2 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Development Planning and Policy
    • O3 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights
    • O4 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity

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