A Comparative Study of Inequality in Kenya and South Korea, 1960s - 2014

Type Thesis or Dissertation - Master of Arts in International Studies
Title A Comparative Study of Inequality in Kenya and South Korea, 1960s - 2014
Author(s)
Publication (Day/Month/Year) 2015
URL http://erepository.uonbi.ac.ke/bitstream/handle/11295/93049/A Comparative Study of Inequality in​Kenya and South Korea, 1960s - 2014.pdf?sequence=1
Abstract
Inequality is the state in which resources and power are distributed unevenly and, therefore,
people are divided into two groups: one with wealth and power and the other without. Even
though inequality exists in every society, it must be resolved due to its negative impact on
poverty reduction, economic growth, and socio-economic stability. Kenya and South Korea
were in a similar economic situation in the early 1960s with substantially low GDP per capita
and high poverty incidence. However, Kenya is one of highly unequal African countries
while South Korea belongs to the 'East Asian Tigers', countries which successfully achieved
sustained high economic growth with low and declining levels of inequality. This research
examines changes in income and non-income inequality in Kenya and South Korea for the
last 50 years using various indicators. The study tries to find out reasons why inequality
levels have changed differently between the two countries and seeks lessons for resolving
inequality and promoting inclusive growth. The findings of the research suggest that it is
critical to provide decent job opportunities, expand educational opportunities, increase access
to national health services, and invest in health sector for reducing income and non-income
inequality and promoting growth with equity

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