Law and Social Policy in the Global South: Brazil, China, India, South Africa

This book explores the origins and trajectories of social policy law in the Global South, including Brazil, China, India, and South Africa, offering a fresh perspective on welfare state building that challenges European narratives and sociological approaches. It is of interest to scholars, students, and political actors in social security law, human rights law, constitutional law, and social policy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 268 pages
Publication date: 13 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

A comprehensive exploration of the historical roots and evolving trajectories of the law governing social policies in the Global South: Brazil, China, India, and South Africa.

This groundbreaking study offers a fresh perspective on welfare state building, challenging the dominance of European narratives and scholars with a background in sociology, political science, and development studies. It will captivate scholars, students, and political actors alike, with its relevance to comparative and international social security law, human rights law, comparative constitutional law, constitutional history, law and development studies, comparative social policies, global social policies, social work, and welfare state theory.

In Brazil, the historical trajectory of social policies has been marked by significant challenges and transformations. The country has a long history of social inequality and poverty, with a large population living in extreme poverty. In recent decades, Brazil has implemented a series of social policies aimed at reducing inequality and promoting social inclusion. These policies include the Bolsa Familia program, which provides cash transfers to low-income families, and the Minha Casa, Minha Vida program, which provides low-interest loans for home ownership.

However, Brazil has also faced criticism for its social policies, particularly in relation to its treatment of indigenous communities and the environment. Critics argue that these policies have perpetuated social inequality and environmental degradation, while also undermining the rights of indigenous peoples.

In China, social policies have been shaped by the country's rapid economic growth and the need to address social inequality. China has implemented a series of social welfare programs, including the provision of healthcare, education, and housing subsidies. However, these policies have also been criticized for their lack of transparency and for the potential for corruption. Critics argue that these policies have led to a concentration of wealth in the hands of a few, while also exacerbating social tensions and inequality.

In India, social policies have been influenced by the country's diverse cultural and social traditions. India has implemented a series of social welfare programs, including the provision of healthcare, education, and housing subsidies. However, these policies have also faced challenges, including poor implementation and a lack of resources. Critics argue that these policies have not been able to address the country's vast social and economic challenges, particularly in rural areas.

In South Africa, social policies have been shaped by the country's history of apartheid and the need to address social inequality and poverty. South Africa has implemented a series of social welfare programs, including the provision of healthcare, education, and housing subsidies. However, these policies have also faced challenges, including poor implementation and a lack of resources. Critics argue that these policies have not been able to address the country's deep-rooted social and economic challenges, particularly in rural areas.

In conclusion, the study of the origins and trajectories of the law governing social policies in the Global South offers a valuable insight into the complex and diverse social and political landscapes of these countries. It highlights the challenges and opportunities that these countries face in implementing social policies that promote social inclusion and reduce inequality. While these policies have faced criticism and challenges, they also demonstrate the potential for positive change and progress in the Global South. As the world continues to grapple with social and economic challenges, the study of social policies in the Global South will become increasingly important in shaping policies and practices that promote social justice and human rights.

Weight: 430g
Dimension: 232 x 155 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032151724