Neoliberalism and Resistance in South Africa: Economic and Political Coalitions

This book critically examines the persistence of market orthodoxy in post-apartheid South Africa and the civil society resistance such policies have generated over a twenty-five-year period. It explores the political economy of segregation and apartheid, the integration of South Africa into the global financial markets, the limitations of the post-apartheid social welfare program, labor strikes and protests, and the role of the IMF and World Bank in policymaking. It also examines the political and economic barriers to the emergence of a viable post-apartheid developmental state, monopoly capital and foreign investment, and state capture during the Jacob Zuma Presidency.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 04 May 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This book delves into a comprehensive analysis of the enduring presence of market orthodoxy in post-apartheid South Africa, examining the profound resistance it has faced from civil society over a span of twenty-five years. Spanning multiple chapters, the text unravels the intricate political coalitions and economic dynamics that have perpetuated neoliberalism in the country since the transition to liberal democracy in 1994. Chapter 1 delves into the political economy of segregation and apartheid, exploring the factors that led to democratic reform and the subsequent shift towards neoliberal policies by the African National Congress (ANC). Subsequent chapters examine the origins and consequences of South Africa's integration into the global financial markets, the limitations of the post-apartheid social welfare program, the widespread labor strikes and protests that have erupted across the country, and the influential role played by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank in policymaking. The final chapters also explore the political and economic obstacles hindering the establishment of a viable post-apartheid developmental state, the implications of monopoly capital and foreign investment for democracy and development, and the phenomenon of state capture during the Jacob Zuma Presidency.

This book offers a valuable contribution to the study of economic policy in post-apartheid South Africa, shedding light on the complex interplay between political, economic, and social forces that have shaped the country's development trajectory. By examining the persistence of market orthodoxy and the resistance it has encountered, the book provides insights into the broader global trends and challenges associated with neoliberal governance. It serves as a cautionary tale for other countries facing similar economic and social challenges, highlighting the importance of robust social protection programs, sustainable development, and democratic governance in achieving equitable and sustainable outcomes.

Weight: 258g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030697686
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021