Ending Poverty in Mongolia: From Socialism to Green Inclusive Growth?

33 Pages Posted: 5 Jul 2012

Date Written: July 4, 2012

Abstract

This case study traces the evolution of poverty in Mongolia, a country currently developing a pluralist approach to poverty alleviation. Mongolia is unique because it transformed from nomadic pastoralism to Soviet socialism without a natural industrial development though capital markets. In the 1990s, it was one of few countries to simultaneously undertake market liberalism and multiparty democracy. Collapse of the socialist safety net increased poverty for women and rural areas. Although macroeconomic “shock therapy” reforms in the 1990s stabilized inflation, poverty estimates remained at 36% and called into question poverty alleviation strategies. In the face of severe winters, families attempt sustainable livelihoods though employment income, bartering livestock, informal trading, remittances from overseas relatives, and unlicensed mining. Current national social development strategies affirmed at Rio 20 combine a green economy for inclusive growth and poverty elimination by using redistribution from mining revenues and overseas development assistance.

Keywords: poverty, green economy, social policy, social development, Mongolia

JEL Classification: B25, P20, I38, I31, O53, N35

Suggested Citation

Smith, Richard J., Ending Poverty in Mongolia: From Socialism to Green Inclusive Growth? (July 4, 2012). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2100555 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.2100555

Richard J. Smith (Contact Author)

Wayne State University ( email )

5447 Woodward Avenue
School of Social Work
Detroit, MI 48202
United States
313-577-2262 (Phone)
313-577-8770 (Fax)

HOME PAGE: http://research.socialwork.wayne.edu/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1341&Itemid=199

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