Analysis - Over the last decade or so there has been something of a revolution in economics. The long held belief that unfettered markets deliver good outcomes for all is now overwhelmingly discredited.
Over the last decade or so there has been something of a revolution in economics. The long held belief that unfettered markets deliver good outcomes for all is now
Much of this rethinking has been in response to economic policies implemented since the early 1970s that favoured unfettered markets, especially in. These have led to growing inequality across the world, excessive corporate power and unacceptable concentrations of wealth in a small elite. This has certainly been the case in South Africa. But there may be room for optimism following the African National Congress's. What's followed are efforts to knit together a unity government - essentially an alliance between the African National Congress, which has dominated South Africa at a national level since 1994, and its historical opposition, the Democratic Alliance.
But the country could move towards the same goal for another reason - that the space has been opened for ideas to be contested.that South Africa requires uncertainty and contestability in its politics to ensure that economic growth is not skewed to benefit the political and economic elite. Another example is from the late 1990s and early 2000s, when President Thabo Mbeki, against all scientific advice, adopted bizarre views about HIV-Aids. This was a policy error that came at aThe two examples illustrate the dangers when leaders can take unilateral policy action. A more plural political space will place a lot more pressure on political actors to base their decisions on evidence.
Such an approach to policy development can draw from the country's strong institutions outside the state. These include excellent universities, a strong and capable civil society, highly capable legal institutions, trade unions with good policy capabilities, and an adept business community.Nothing is certain. There are, however, good reasons to feel a little more optimistic, because of the new pluralism, about being able to address current challenges and those that will emerge.
News Politics Economy Trade Business Sports Current Events Travel South Africa Southern Africa Economy Business And Finance
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
South Africa: The Second Coming - Comedians Rush to Respond to South Africa's New Political RealityAnalysis - For the past 30 years, South Africa's political reality hasn't reflected the level of nuance and messiness that comes out through its comedy. We had a Ruling Party, with two capital letters. We don't have that any more. Today, for the first time, South African politics is as messy as its people.
Read more »
South Africa: EFFL Political Leader Gonquoi Joins Malema Campaign in South Africa, Undergoes Global LeaderThe Commander-in-Chief of the African Political movement, Economic Freedom Fighters Liberia's chapter has joined his global leader Julius Malema in a political crusade geared at ensuring the institution governs South Africa's national leadership.
Read more »
South Africa: Keyshia Cole To Tour South Africa This SummerSeasoned concert organizers Glen21 Entertainment today confirmed that the iconic R&B songstress Keyshia Cole will be touring South Africa later this year.
Read more »
South Africa: Anti-Immigrant Rhetoric Shot Up Online Before South Africa PollsThe online conversation against immigrants in South Africa increased sharply in the lead-up to the recent national elections, reports the Centre for Analytics and Behavioural Change (CABC).
Read more »
South Africa: Will Foreign Policy Differences Be a Deal-Breaker in South Africa's Coalition Negotiations?Analysis - The ANC has sharp differences over foreign policy with other political parties. The question is whether these differences will be deal breakers in ongoing negotiations to form a government of national unity or a coalition.
Read more »
South Africa: Anti-Immigrant Rhetoric Gained Ground During Run-Up to South Africa's ElectionsAn online activity report by the Centre for Analytics and Behavioural Change (CABC) has found that South Africa's socio-economic problems are increasingly being blamed on immigrants.
Read more »