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The Links between Elite Conflict, Education Policies and Economic Complexity: Analysis of the (Similar, yet Different) Developmental Trajectories of Mauritius & Singapore

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  • Nassim Hajouji

Abstract

Using education and elite configurations as the main variables of analysis, this Policy Paper aims to show how higher levels of popular sector incorporation during elite conflicts, namely in the process of formulating and implementing policies related to education reforms, can negatively affect the economic complexity of developing countries. To do so, it analyzes the experiences of Mauritius and Singapore and links foundational political economy theories, particularly developmental state theory, Waldner’s elite conflict paradigm (1999), and state-led innovation (Lee and Yoo, 2007), to economic complexity as an outcome. It essentially argues that popular sector incorporation and mobilization during elite conflict impedes on state-academia-industry coordination, which is a necessity for late developers to develop efficient networks of productive knowledge, conducive to achieving higher levels of economic complexity.

Suggested Citation

  • Nassim Hajouji, 2022. "The Links between Elite Conflict, Education Policies and Economic Complexity: Analysis of the (Similar, yet Different) Developmental Trajectories of Mauritius & Singapore," Research papers & Policy papers on Economic Trends and Policies 2203, Policy Center for the New South.
    • Handle: RePEc:ocp:rpaeco:pp_04-22
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. R. M. Auty, 2017. "Natural Resources and Small Island Economies: Mauritius and Trinidad and Tobago," Journal of Development Studies, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 53(2), pages 264-277, February.
    2. Canh Phuc Nguyen & Christophe Schinckus & Thanh Dinh Su, 2020. "The drivers of economic complexity: International evidence from financial development and patents," International Economics, CEPII research center, issue 164, pages 140-150.
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