1. Beyond Elitism: The Possibilities of Labour-Centred Development
- Author:
- Benjamin Selwyn
- Publication Date:
- 04-2016
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Centre for Global Political Economy, University of Sussex
- Abstract:
- This article outlines the theory and practice of Labour Centred Development (LCD). Much development thinking is elitist, positing states and corporations as primary agents in the development process. This article argues, by contrast, that collective actions by labouring classes can generate tangible developmental gains, and therefore, that under certain circumstances they can be considered primary development actors. Examples of LCD discussed here include shack-dweller’s movements in South Africa, the landless labourer’s movement in Brazil, unemployed worker’s movements in Argentina and large-scale collective actions by formal sector workers across East Asia. The article also considers future prospects for LCD.
- Topic:
- Development, Economics, International Political Economy, Labor Issues, and International Development
- Political Geography:
- East Asia, South Africa, Brazil, and Argentina