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1
Gonçalves, Armindo. "The informal sector in Cuernavaca." Thesis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1995. http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/66770.
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Kahyalar, Neslihan. "Three empirical essays on the informal economy : the Turkish case." Thesis, Swansea University, 2014. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.678357.
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Diaz, Ruiz Claudia E. (Claudia Esperanza). "Formal informal sector responses for housing low-income people in Colombia." Thesis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1995. http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/65696.
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Mandela, Mabel. "The informal sector and youth unemployment : prospects for labour absorption in Zambia." Thesis, University of Sussex, 1990. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.278429.
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The thesis discusses characteristics of youth unemployment in Zambia and the prospects of absorption of youth labour in the urban informal sector. This is done on the basis of both primary survey and secondary sources. The informal sector given the right support has the potential to generate economic growth. Unemployment is severe among the youth who are newcomers to the labour market. The problem of labour absorption in Zambia is investigated especially since the fall in copper prices and structural adjustment which has not created jobs. A combination of inadequacies of domestic policies and international recession have certainly contributed to the economic decline. The government mismanaged the initial copper boom. The country has relied on a single export commodity, copper. The employment problem has to be crucial in the context of a dual economy. Many variants e.g. population growth, rural urban migration and the paper qualification syndrome explain the supply of labour. The population is skewed in favour of the youth and most migrants are educated in search of an urban job. This helps to explain the high unemployment rate among the youth. The thesis concentrates on formal and informal sectors as evidence of dualism. Formal sector prospects are limited for well known reasons e.g. shortages of resources, fall in copper prices, price distortions, import substitution policies, development patterns and capital intensive technology which restrict employment potential. On the other hand, the informal sector which is labour intensive appear to have employment potential. Lack of minimal skill and capital among the youth, which are prerequisite in the informal sector act entry as barriers. This is in particular substantiated in the thesis on labour demand. The youth's views towards the informal appear to be negative. The mismatch between the youth's education and expectations explain this attitude. The possession of a school certificate raises expectations which make youngsters withhold their labour during their first job search. The youth desire white collar employment. The approach adopted is qualitative rather than quantitative because of nature and limitation of data. For instance, unemployment is not without statistical and definitional problems.
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El-Bakly, Ahmed Abdel-Aziz. "The informal sector and urban labour markets in Egypt : a life path approach." Thesis, University of Liverpool, 2001. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.369019.
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Mitter, Anjali 1973. "Water for the urban poor : Côte d'Ivoire's experiment with private and informal sector cooperation." Thesis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1999. http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/9325.
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Thesis (M.C.P.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Urban Studies and Planning, 1999.Includes bibliographical references (leaves 72-73).
The urban poor in developing countries, many of whom live in illegal squatter settlements at the periphery of the city, often have insufficient access to affordable, clean water. Both public and private utilities are often unable or unwilling to install piped water connections in these neighborhoods, and, as a result, the poor tend to rely on individual, informal vendors who sell water at very high prices. In an effort to bridge this service gap and provide the urban poor with easy and affordable access to water without investing in costly infrastructure, some public utilities have tried to form agreements with vendors to use them as an extension of their distribution network. In an era of increasing private sector participation in water treatment and distribution, some private companies are considering similar arrangements. This thesis presents the results of field-work conducted in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, where the private water utility has, since 1960, attempted to forge a partnership with vendors in the informal sector. The system of "registered vending" that the utility has implemented is promising in that, as long as the utility is prohibited by law from extending the network into illegally settled neighborhoods, it enables the residents of these neighborhoods to obtain at least a minimal amount of clean water. However, the system could be strengthened, and the lessons learned from this experiment may be helpful for other private utilities considering similar cooperative arrangements with water vendors in the informal sector.
by Anjali Mitter.
M.C.P.
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Qase, Nomawethu. "Energy policy, informal sector and urban household livelihoods : a case study of meat traders in the Western Cape." Master's thesis, University of Cape Town, 2000. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/5283.
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Bibliography: leaves 77-81.This dissertation highlights the links between energy, informal sector and urban household livelihoods. The critical argument is that energy is a key input in some of the informal sector activities such as street food vending which is dominant in urban environments. The energy needs of the street food vendors are easily visible to the eye, because street food vendors are found everywhere on the street comers, taxi ranks, and other places where there is a proven flow of people. Despite this, the energy needs for informal sector activities are not well integrated into policies and strategies aimed at supporting the development of the informal sector. To address this situation, it is recommended that energy policy makers need to revise the current conceptualisation of the household sub-sector in order to incorporate energy planning for income generation.
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Richman, Kathy A. "The Annapurna Mahila Mandal of Bombay : a caterers' paradise or a case of inlvolutionary growth in the informal sector?" Thesis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1985. http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/77305.
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Thesis (M.C.P.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Urban Studies and Planning, 1985.MICROFICHE COPY AVAILABLE IN ARCHIVES AND ROTCH.
Bibliography: leaves 78-80.
by Kathy A. Richman.
M.C.P.
9
Azad, Mithila. "Social insurance provision for women in the urban informal sector : interpreting the successful strategy of Working Women's Forum, India." Thesis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/37464.
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Thesis (M.C.P.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Urban Studies and Planning, 2006.Includes bibliographical references (leaves 72-75).
Since the late-1980s, the world's workers have experienced two strikingly coordinated global trends. The first is an unpredicted decline in secure, formally employed labor, and subsequent growth in informal labor. The second is an unprecedented decline in state welfare rhetoric and policy. These simultaneous trends have resulted in an increase in the proportion of workers that do not receive secure wages or social benefits from either the employer or the state. As this notion of the "benevolent" state purported in the 1950's disintegrates, one finds development literature focusing squarely on formation of social movements as solutions. This study examines the efforts of one such social movement-Working Women's Forum, India (WWF)-which has been successful in providing social protection (insurance) for over 8,00,000 women in the urban informal sector in Tamilnadu, Andhra and Karnataka. This case study looks at linkages between WWF and insurers: Government and Private owned. The curiosity that guides the research is regarding a) opportunities involved in such linkages towards a wider coverage of women in the informal sector, and b) identifying different state characteristics that influence different levels of success among informal workers organizations' ability to secure labor benefits.
(cont.) The latter is marked by continuous negotiations, sometimes confrontational, and other times enabling. This necessitates knowledge of the larger political, legislative and policy environment under which such struggles become successful movements. The reason to study this organization was multifold. First, the organization has been operational in more than one State (of India), aiding comparative analysis of outcomes with respect to different governmental set ups. Second, owing to its large coverage, it was useful to understand the kind of strength it wields in influencing policy decisions (Social Security Bill for Unorganized Sector Workers, 2006). All these issues are analyzed in the backdrop of reformatory struggles through the 1970's, definitions of social protection, current legislations, organizational modifications over the years, and the micro-insurance programmes. The intention of the thesis is mainly to identify factors that have contributed to bringing about an enabling environment for social protection for women in the urban informal sector.
by Mithila Azad.
M.C.P.
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Madhavan, Jaswanth. "Unconventional wisdom from below : understanding social and technical determinants of ergonomic risk in the Indian informal textile and clothing sector." Thesis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/111394.
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Thesis: M.C.P., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Department of Urban Studies and Planning, 2017.Cataloged from PDF version of thesis.
Includes bibliographical references (pages 66-68).
In many parts of the Global South, including India, a significant number of informal workers, particularly women in the informal economy, engage in sewing, embroidery, and other forms of manufacturing work within informal segments of the textile and clothing sector. Despite substantial progress in labor rights and workplace safety regulations, the persistence of hazardous workplace conditions renders such workers vulnerable to potentially disabling forms of 'Repetitive strain injuries'. 'Repetitive strain injuries' frequently result from poor ergonomic design of workplace equipment. This thesis on India's informal textile and clothing sector studies the usage characteristics of workplace technologies at the organizational and individual levels, and their interactions with broader social and institutional arrangements that characterize informal sewing units. In partnership with Usha International Ltd. and SEWA (Self Employed Women's Association) Bharat, the thesis demonstrates how context-sensitive ergonomic interventions can be developed for and with those working within the informal textile and clothing economy. The thesis achieves this by studying ergonomic risk from the bottom-up by using focus group discussions and key informant interviews, with the goal of (1) collecting both qualitative and quantitative information and (2) facilitating the unveiling of hidden rationalities that influence workplace decision making and studying their implications for technical and policy solutions.
by Jaswanth Madhavan.
M.C.P.
11
Howe, Caroline Louise. "Building stability through decentralization : the environmental, economic, and ethical argument for informal sector collection and decentralized waste processing in urban India." Thesis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/90204.
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Thesis: M.C.P., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Department of Urban Studies and Planning, 2014.Cataloged from PDF version of thesis.
Includes bibliographical references (pages 51-54).
Rapid population growth, urbanization and increasing affluence have led to increases in consumption and waste generation in all Indian cities. The current system, a mix of informal recyclables collection and centralized waste collection by the formal sector with much garbage still disposed of in unlined landfills, is at a point of crisis. With waste generation far outpacing processing capacity, cities know they must invest in "improving" waste management systems, yet a key question is whether to invest in centralized or decentralized, formal or informal waste systems, or combine the strengths of both. This research asks what approach to waste management in India will increase stability, economic and environmental sustainability, and social benefit. To answer those questions, I conducted a case study of Pune, since the city has implemented centralized waste processing, followed by supporting informal sector collection and instituting decentralized collection. The diversity of its methods and the many challenges Pune has faced have allowed me to analyze the benefits, impacts and limitations of each of these approaches. For the case study, I conducted more than 50 interviews of city staff, waste pickers, waste picker cooperative staff, restaurant managers, and citizens. Based on this analysis, and comparison to other Indian cities, including Delhi and Bangalore, I have concluded that the best solution for most Indian cities is to build the capacity of the informal sector while also creating decentralized processing infrastructure to handle organics and non-recyclable waste. While this approach is challenging, it is possible, and I have created a set of recommendations in order to implement this effectively. These guidelines include the following: 1) conduct long-term planning across city departments to have proactive approach to waste generation; 2) focus on waste reduction and eliminate most non-recyclable and non-biodegradable waste streams; 3) invest in the capacities of the informal sector, including giving waste pickers space for sorting, more information on their rights, and support; 4) build decentralized waste processing systems for organics and non-recyclables that create benefits for and minimize impacts on host communities; and 5) site all facilities more equitably by building community consensus.
by Caroline Louise Howe.
M.C.P.
12
Venkatesh, Harini 1978. "The politics of the urban informal sector and dominant social institutions : a case study on the Self-Employed Women's Association (SEWA)." Thesis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/17705.
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Thesis (M.C.P.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Urban Studies and Planning, 2004.Includes bibliographical references (p. 109-113).
Since the 1970's the economics of the urban informal sector (UIS) has received tremendous attention in development literature. Recently, scholars have delved into the politics within which this sector is embedded. With respect to the politics of its external relationship, conventional wisdom argued that quintessential to achieving positive outcomes for the UIS poor was the practice of autonomy of groups representing-the latter from dominant social institutions such as unions of formal sector workers, political parties and the government since political processes operating through these institutions was unresponsive to the needs of the UIS poor. The objective of this research is to revisit the history of an organization that has delivered positive outcomes for the UIS poor with the ultimate objective of answering the following questions: What is the nature of relationship between the UIS poor and dominant social institutions, primarily, the government? What are the conditions, if any, under which there could be a more cooperative and complementary relationship between these actors, while ensuring positive outcomes for the UIS poor? Can these conditions be generalized or are they time, place and case specific? I analyze the case study of the Self-Employed Women's Association (SEWA) to answer these questions. SEWA is one of India's most successful voluntary organizations having its roots in the trade union movement in India and has since 1972 organized more than 300,000 UIS women workers. I analyze the above-mentioned relationships during SEWA's evolution from its birth to its growth.
(cont.) The relationships during SEWA's growth are analyzed in the context of SEWA's campaigns for credit for self-employed women and secondarily by contrasting this campaign with SEWA's campaign for minimum wages. The research concludes describing how SEWA worked closely with all three institutions and particularly with the Indian government during its birth and growth. This positive relationship is seen even in the case of contemporary SEWA-government relationships. To be sure, the nature of these relationships varies during SEWA evolution depending on contextual specificities of time, place, person, policies, etc. Also, explanatory variables underlying these relationships differ in each of the stories told. Nevertheless, two common variables explain the positive relationship between SEWA and dominant institutions. These are progressive legislation coming from the central government in India and individual actors dedicated to social reform within the government, both at central and state levels.
by Harini Venkatesh.
M.C.P.
13
Bäckman, Kartal Helin. "Formalizing the Informal Sector, is it Desirable for Everyone? : South African Informal Operators, Bankers, Researchers and Policymakers Elaborating on Their Understanding of Formalization, and the Way Towards Financial Inclusion." Thesis, Umeå universitet, Statsvetenskapliga institutionen, 2021. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:umu:diva-187488.
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The purpose of this study is to map different understandings of the formalization of the informal financial sector in the developing world. Utilizing a qualitative approach and interview methodology, this study focuses on the case of South Africa and maps different perceptions about the formalization process by operators in the informal economic sector, which are in turn contrasted with the perceptions of experts and policymakers in the field. The issue at hand is a deeper understanding of how and why different groups perceive formalization in different ways. Some of the main findings of this study confirm that there are different understandings of formalization that can be found amongst different groups in South Africa, that the overall positive understanding of formalization efforts are greater than the negative ones, and that formalization efforts are formulated more inclusive than informal operators believe they are. The theoretical contribution of this study is to state that moral arguments play a bigger role in individuals economical decision-making processes than the economy itself shapes individuals' moral behavior. In addition, the findings are of relevance for the design and implementation of financial inclusion policies in the developing world.
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Wines, Sarah W. "The role of credit extension programs in generating changes in the structure of private, informal sector microenterprises : the ADEMI program in the Dominican Republic." Thesis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1985. http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/78796.
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Thesis (M.C.P.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Urban Studies and Planning, 1985.MICROFICHE COPY AVAILABLE IN ARCHIVES AND ROTCH.
Bibliography: leaves 115-117.
by Sarah W. Wines.
M.C.P.
15
Lind, Anna-Maria. "Struggle and Development : Approaching gender bias in practical international development work." Thesis, Örebro University, Department of Social and Political Sciences, 2007. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:oru:diva-1444.
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Since the Beijing Conference on women in 1995 ‘gender-mainstreaming’ has been the new buzz word within the international development regime. Gender equality is increasingly believed to be a major determinant for socioeconomic development in the Global South. However, the development agenda and the gender strategies for the Global South are still outlined and determined by development professionals at head quarters of the development business in the in the Global North. Heavy critique has been launched against the prevailing international development paradigm, not only for being increasingly centralised and categorised as business, which distances global policy from the lived realities in the Global South, but also for obscuring unequal power relations between men and women behind the political correctness of gender.
This study explores how gender and gender power relations are perceived and approached in practical development work in India. Through the example of the Self-Employed Women’s Association, SEWA, my ambition is to give an example of how gender bias and social inequality can be targeted through practical socioeconomic development work in a way that is both context sensitive and sprung from the Global South. SEWA is a women’s organisation, as well as a trade union and a cooperative movement. Aiming at improving employment and social and economic security for the female workers in the informal sectors, SEWA has organised its 800 000 members and social security services into cooperatives to bring about a process of social transformation with women at the centre.
My empirical findings show that SEWA approaches gender bias in concrete and particular forms. As gender discrimination and poverty are interconnected, dealing with low-income households’ basic socioeconomic needs will also restructure gender power relations. With a large member-base and with ties to NGOs, corporations and governmental bodies, regionally, nationally and internationally, SEWA has become a powerful actor for social development, even at times when they face heavy resistance due to their feminist principles and commitment to the poor and socially marginalised.
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Tassin, Rolline Estelle Ndjike. "TRANSITING FROM THE INFORMAL TO FORMAL BUSINESS: MOTIVES, CHALLENGES AND THE COPING MECHANISMS OF SELECTED TRANSITED BUSINESSES IN THE BLOEMFONTEIN AREA." Thesis, Bloemfontein: Central University of Technology, Free State, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/11462/235.
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Thesis (M. Tech. (Business Administration)) -- Central University of Technology, Free State, 2014This exploratory study seeks to contribute to the theoretical and empirical understanding of the transition of small businesses from the informal to the formal sector. It builds on the role of the informal sector as “engines” for economic and socio-cultural development. Using selected businesses in the Mangaung area of the Free State province as case studies, this study investigates the motives for transition of informal businesses to the formal sector in South Africa, challenges encountered in the process of formalisation and the coping strategies relied upon to deal with challenges encountered in the process of formalisation. Key indicators were identified from the literature and were further developed for investigation. A qualitative approach was used for the collection of data from selected transited businesses in the Bloemfontein area using semi-structured interviews. Findings from the study suggest that the decision by small business owners to formalise is motivated by their desire to grow and expand their businesses; access to proper banking services; and to access government contracts and tenders. The results also reveal that the quest for growth is however hindered by long queues endured by business applicants during the process of formalisation; lack of adequate and relevant information on the process of formalisation; coupled with the lack of government support for informal businesses’ transitioning to the formal sector. Findings further revealed that adequate information on the process of formalisation and self-trust are key coping mechanisms needed by small business owners to successfully progress/ transit to the formal sector. Based on these findings, the study recommends that government both provincial and national play a more proactive role in regulating the informal economy by creating an environment conducive for their growth and development, and facilitating their transition to the formal sector. Informal small business owners also must be provided with information on the process of formalisation and of the existing government structures put in place to support businesses in their transition phase.
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Gumbo, Trynos. "On ideology change and spatial and structural linkages between formal and informal economic sectors in Zimbabwean cities (1981-2010)." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/79861.
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Thesis (PhD)--Stellenbosch University, 2013.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Zimbabwean cities have been experiencing wide-ranging economic restructuring since independence in 1980. The relationships between the declining formal economy and the growing informal economy concomitant with political and economic ideological shifts over the years have not been studied extensively and are not well understood. In this study the impact of political and economic ideological shifts on the growth, spatial and structural linkages between the two sectors over the three decades, from 1981-2010, in the country’s two main cities, Harare and Bulawayo, is investigated. Mixed-method approaches were applied to gather spatial, quantitative and qualitative data. Geospatial data were created using 1164 and 857 geographical positioning system locational points of informal economic enterprises in Harare and Bulawayo respectively. Maps of the two cities were scanned, georeferenced, projected and digitised. Longitudinal and crosssectional data were gathered from archival sources and through 300 and 600 questionnaire surveys of formal and informal economic operators respectively. Qualitative data was generated from 30 interviews that were conducted with professionals that influence the operations of the two sectors. The data were analysed using GIS, SPSS and Statistica software to reveal the temporal growth of the two sectors, as well as their spatial and structural linkages. It was found that the informal sector grew by 17% under the socialist policies of the 1980s. This increase was partly attributable to overurbanisation because the urban labour force increased at an average of 3% per annum compared to the formal economic sector that generated employment at an average of only 2.2% per annum throughout the 1980s. The shifts toward neo-liberal economic policies at the beginning of the 1990s resulted in immense retrenchments, forcing many workers to join the informal sector. As formal firms adjusted their operations to fight global competition, employment generation declined to an average of 1% per annum throughout the1990s. The informal sector responded by employing 61% of the labour force by 2001. The adoption of authoritarian policies at the beginning of the 2000s accelerated the decline of the formal economy which recorded negative growths for most of the first decade of the millennium. This led to the rapid rise of informal sector employment to an astronomic level of 87.8% in 2008. The investigation revealed substantial locational transformations of both formal and informal economic enterprises. During the 30-year period, informal economic businesses spread in low-income suburbs, city centres and neighbourhood and district shopping centres. 16.3% of formal economic enterprises left the city centres preferring secure medium density suburbs close to the CBDs, shopping complexes, industrial, office and business parks on the edges of the cities. 83.7% remained in the city centres and industrial centres where informalisation of operations was one of the strategies employed to fight competition, whilst 86.3% and 22.8% informal economic enterprises licensed and registered their operations respectively over the 30 year period. These spatial and structural changes resulted in linkages being formed between the two sectors. The nature of the linkages is largely influenced by the position of the informal businesses on a continuum of informal enterprises ranging from traditional, through transitional to semi-formal. It was found that traditional and transitional enterprises had strong backward linkages with formal businesses where they purchase their goods and raw materials. Forward linkages exist where semi-formal businesses sell furniture, building materials and clothing to formal businesses. Thus, a symbiosis exists, but linkages are very exploitative as formal businesses tend to dictate the terms of business. The reciprocal-supportive model was extended by adding four pillars that influence the operations of the two sectors to produce a differential complexity model of informalisation (DCMI). The reasons or causes of informalisation (RE); the subsectors that comprise the two sectors (SE); the various locations of the two sectors’ businesses (L); and the levels of formality and informality (Ls) are integrated in the DCMI to aid comprehension of the linkages between the two sectors. The model can be adjusted and applied to various urban settings, allowing for the development of the two sectors spatially, structurally and temporally.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Zimbabwe se stede is sedert die land se onafhanklikheidswording in 1980 aan omvattende ekonomiese herstrukturering onderworpe. Samelopend met die kwynende formele ekonomie was daar groei en ruimtelike en strukturele veranderings in die informele sektor. Die reaksies van die twee ekonomiese sektore op die politieke en ekonomies-ideologiese verskuiwings gedurende die eerste drie dekades na onafhanklikheid, is nog nie omvattend bestudeer nie en word tot nog toe nie goed verstaan nie. In hierdie studie word hierdie verwantskappe in Zimbabwe se twee hoofstede, Harare en Bulawayo, bestudeer. ‘n Gemengde-metode benadering word gevolg om ruimtelike, kwantitatiewe en kwalitatiewe data in te samel. Georuimtelike data is met behulp van ‘n geografiese posisioneringsisteem, skandering, geoverwysing, projektering en versyfering van kaarte van die twee stede geskep. Kwantitatiewe longitudinale-en dwarsprofieldata is verkry uit argiefbronne en deur middel van vraelysopnames onder formele en informele handelaars. Onderhoude met professionele persone wat die werking van die twee sektore beïnvloed, het kwalitatiewe data gelewer. Die data is met GIS- en SPSSsagteware ontleed om die groei van die twee sektore oor tyd, en hulle ruimtelike en strukturele skakels bloot te lê. Daar is gevind dat die informele sektor met 17% gegroei het onder die sosialistiese beleid van die 1980s. Hierdie toename kan gedeeltelik aan oorverstedeliking toegeskryf word omdat die stedelike arbeidsmag met ‘n gemiddelde van 3% jaarliks toegeneem het in vergelyking met die formele sektor wat werksgeleenthede slegs teen 2.2% jaarliks gedurende die 1980s gegenereer het. Verskuiwings na neoliberale ekonomiese beleid teen die begin van die 1990s het grootskaalse afdankings tot gevolg gehad, wat baie werkers gedwing het om by die informele sektor aan te sluit. Namate formele ondernemings aanpassings gemaak het om die stryd te voer teen globale kompetisie, het werkverskaffing gedaal tot ‘n gemiddelde van 1% jaarliks gedurende die 1990s. Die informele sektor het gereageer deur om in 2001 61% van die arbeidsmag te huisves. Die aanvaarding van outoritêre beleid teen die begin van die 2000s het die kwyn van die formele ekonomie verhaas, met die gevolg dat negatiewe groeikoerse gedurende die meeste van die eerste dekade van die millennium ervaar is. Dít het aanleiding gegee tot ‘n snelle toename in indiensneming in die informele sector, tot ‘n astronomiese 87.8% in 2008. Die ondersoek bring aansienlike liggingstransformasies van formele en informele besighede te vore. Gedurende die drie dekades (1981 tot 2010) het die informele ondernemings na lae-inkomste woonbuurte, middestede, en buurt- en distrikswinkelsentra versprei. Sommige formele ondernemings het weggetrek uit die middestede na fabrieks-, kantoor- en sakeparke in die randgebiede van die twee stede. Sommige formele ondernemings wat in die middestede aangebly het, het hulle sake geïnformaliseer om kompetisie te bestry en informele ondernemings het hulle sakestrukture deur lisensiëring en registrasie aangepas. Hierdie strukturele wysigings het wisselwerking tussen die twee sektore laat ontstaan. Die aard van die wisselwerking word beïnvloed deur die posisie wat die informele ondernemings beklee op ‘n kontinuum van ondernemings wat strek van tradisioneel deur oorgangstipes tot by semi-informeel. Daar is gevind dat die meeste informele handelaars en produsente hulle verkoopsware en grondstowwe by leweransiers in die formele sektor verkry. Verkoopskakels bestaan waar informele vervaardigers meubels, boustowwe en klerasie aan formele ondernemings voorsien. Dus bestaan daar ‘n simbiose, maar die skakels neig om uitbuitend te wees want die formele ondernemings dikteer dikwels besigheidsvoorwaardes. Die wederkerige-ondersteunende model is uitgebrei deur die byvoeging van vier pilare, wat die handelinge van die twee sektore beïnvloed, om ‘n differensiële kompleksiteitsmodel van informalisasie (DKmI) tot stand te bring. Die redes vir, of oorsake van informalisering (RE); die subsektore waaruit die twee sektore bestaan (SE); die verskeie liggings van die twee sektore se besighede (L); en die vlakke van formaliteit en informaliteit (Ls) is geïntegreer in die DKmI om begrip van die skakels tussen die twee sektore te bevorder. Die model is aanpasbaar en toepasbaar in verskeie stedelike omgewings om ontwikkeling van die twee ekonomiese sektore ruimtelik, struktureel en temporeel moontlik te maak.
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Hauenstein, Chloe R. "Policies for Employment Enhancement and Environmental Protection: The Integration of Waste Management Systems in Argentina and India." Scholarship @ Claremont, 2014. http://scholarship.claremont.edu/cmc_theses/847.
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In many developing countries, a significant proportion of the population relies on work in the informal sector as a source of income. Some scholars have posed the possibility of integrating the informal sector into the formal sector, in an effort to improve the lives and livelihoods of workers and the productivity of a country’s economy. This paper examines potential steps that could allow for such integration by focusing on a sub-sector of the informal sector that has already begun the process of integration: the informal waste management sector. This paper compares the cities of Buenos Aires, Argentina and Pune, India in an attempt to explore their processes of integrating the informal waste sector into the formal waste management process.
By examining both scholarly works and primary government documents, this study demonstrates that both Buenos Aires and Pune have implemented a number of initiatives to develop laws and programs in order to integrate their informal waste management systems. Consequently, the municipal governments of these cities have been able to provide a more substantial livelihood for previously informal workers and have improved the sanitation of their cities. These findings imply that the governments of other cities with large informal waste sectors could utilize a similar framework to benefit both vulnerable populations and environmental practices.
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Onyebueke, Victor Udemezue. "Policy implications of the spatial and structural relationships of the informal and formal business sectors in urban Nigeria : the case of Enugu (1990-2010)." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/79889.
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Thesis (PhD)--Stellenbosch University, 2013.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The 21st Century is witnessing the concurrence of neoliberal globalisation and widespread informalisation. To this extent, the informal sector or economy is perceived as a permanent ‘feature of modern capitalist development’ (Chen 2007: 2). Its expansion, particularly in developing countries, has far reaching implications for employment generation, occupational or livelihood diversification, urban form dynamics, urban planning, as well as the general economic outcome. The historical evolutionary truth of the informal origin of most businesses coupled with the reality of informal-formal sector continuum gives credence to the critical imperative of multi-path development regime that does not consider the informal sector as a dead end. Consequently, the research explored the policy implications of the spatial and structural relationships between the informal and formal business sectors in urban Nigeria. The study region is viewed from the prism of Enugu, the major administrative centre in the southeast region of the country. Here, spatial-structural causalities at the city level are conjectured as surrogates of the globalisation-induced transformations occurring in the country from 1990 to 2010 (Andranovich & Riposa 1993). The research sought to: one, examine the extent relationships between the distribution structures of two economic segments in the city; and two, explore the changes in inter-sectoral linkages and the urban business landscape mediated by the global-local economic changes. To guide the study, two research hypotheses were formulated, viz.: (1) to prove whether or not some significant spatial/structural relationships exist between the distribution of informal and formal business units in the study area; and (2) to verify if the observed changes in the spatial and structural relationships between the two segments are accounted for by the same sets of physical, economic, and socio-cultural variables. The study made use of primary and secondary data, which were collected via mixed research methods. The proportional stratified sampling was used where necessary. The primary data were collected through casual observation/recognisance, photographic and questionnaire surveys, and semi-structured personal interviews; while the secondary data were sourced from literature review, maps and databanks of local governments and Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). The data analytical procedure involved data reduction and hypotheses testing. The former technique consists of sectoral aggregation (the segmentation by coherent attribute-sectors) and spatial aggregation (translation from quantitative into spatial dimensions) (Wang & Vom Hofe 2007), while the latter required the use of Spatial Statistics Analysis toolsets of the ArGIS software and the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) of the SPSS package. The Spatial Statistics Analysis (the Spatial Autocorrelation or Moran’s I index) and PCA results permitted the rejection of the two null hypotheses respectively. The Moran’s I index is 0.16 with a Z score of 159.78 at a significant level of .01 and critical value of 2.58, revealing a highly clustered spatial association (or dependence) between the informal and formal business distribution in the study area. Based on the eigenvalues of 10 selected variables, the PCA extracted three major determinants of the observed spatial-structural causalities, namely: socio-economic and cultural traits or business ethos, client base and market control, and physical environment/business transaction mode. The findings challenges the received model of Nigeria retail hierarchy, and among the key recommendations for guaranteeing stronger informal-formal sector linkages that are generative of sustainable endogenous development are: (i) the reinstatement of the import substitution programme; (ii) implementation of the innovative Cluster Concept of Industrial Development Strategy (CCIDS) of 2007; and (iii) adoption of urban planning standards that are pro-informal sector.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: In die 21ste eeubeleefonsgelyktydigneoliberaleglobalisasie en wydverspreideinformalisasie. Samelopendhiermee word die informelesektorvandieekonomiegesien as ’n “permanentekenmerk van die kapitalistieseontwikkeling.” (Chen 2007: 2). Die uitbreidingdaarvan, veral in ontwikkelendelande, het verreikendeimplikasies vir die skepping van werksgeleenthede, die diversifikasie van loopbaan- en broodwinnings-moontlikhede, stedelikevorms, stedelikebeplanning, asookalgemeneekonomieseuitkomstes. Die historieseevolusionêrewaarheidoor die oorsprong van die meestebesighede, tesame met die realiteit van die informelesektorkontinuum, verleengeloofwaardigheidaandie kritiesebelangrikheid van die multi-pad ontwikkelingraamwerkwaarbinne die informelesektorniegesien word as ’n doodloopstraatnie. Gevolglik het die navorser die beleidsimplikasies van die ruimtelike- en struktureleverhoudingtussen die informele en die formele sake-sektors in stedelikeNigeriëondersoek. Die studiegebied word besigtigvanuit die prisma van Enugu, die hoof administratiewesentrum van die suidelikestreek van Nigerië. Hier word ruimetelik-struktureleoorsaaklikhedegebruik as maatstawwe vir die transformasieswatdeurglobalisasieveroorsaak is, en wattussen 1990 en 2010 in die land plaasgvind het (Andranovich&Riposa 1993). Daar is in die navorsinggepoog om eerstens die omvang van verwantskappetussen die verspreidingstrukture van die twee ekonomiesesegmente van die stad vas te stel, en tweedens, om die veranderings in inter-sektorieseskakels en die stedelike sake landskapwatdeur die globaale-plaaslikeekonomieseveranderingsbemiddel is, te bestudeer. Twee navorsinghipoteses is geformaliseer, naamlik (1) om te bewys of daarbetekenisvolleruimtelike/struktureleverwantskappebestaantussen die verspreiding van informele en formeleeenhede in die studie- gebied, en (2) om te bevestig of die veranderings in die ruimtelike en struktureleverwantskappetussen die twee besigheidsegmentetoegeskryfkan word aandieselfdestelfisiese, ekonomiese en sosio-kultureleveranderlikes. In die studie is daargebruikgemaak van primêre en sekondêre data watdeurmiddel van gemengdenavorsingmetodesversamel is. Die proporsioneelgestratifiseerdesteekproefmetode is, waarnodig, gebruik. Die primêre data is deurterloopseobservasie, fotografiese- en vraelysopnames, en semi-gestruktureerde persoonlike onderhoudeversamel, terwyl die sekondêre data verkry is uit ’n oorsig van die letterkunde, landkaarte, en die databanke van plaaslikeowerhede en die binnelandsebelastingsdiens. (FIRS). Die data ontledingsproses het data reduksie en hipotesetoetsingingesluit. Dievorigetegniekbestaanuitsektorieseaggregasie (segmentasiedeursamehandeattribuutsektore) en ruimtelikeaggregasie (oorgesitvanafkwantitatiewenaruimtelikedimensies) (Wang & VomHofe 2007). Vir die laasgenoemde was dit nodig om Spatial Statistics Analysis gereedskapstel van die ArGISsagteware en die Principal Component Analysis (PCA) van die SPSS paket te gebruik. The Spatial Statistics Analysis (die Spatial Autocorrelation of Moran se I indeks) en die PCA resultatehet die verwerping van die twee nulhipotesesmoontlikgemaak. Moran se I indeks is 0.16 met ’n Z telling van 159.78 teen ’n betekenisvollevlak van .01 en ’n kritiesewaarde van 2.58, wat ’n hoogsgetrosderuimetlikeassosiasieaantoon, of dat die verspreiding van die informele en formelebesighede in die studiegebiednabymekaargeleë en afhanklik is van mekaar. Gegrond op die eigenwaardes van die 10 gekoseveranderlikes, is daardeur die PCA bepaalwat die drie hoof ruimtelik-strukturelekousaliteite is. Dit is sosio-ekonomiese en kulturelekenmerke, kliente basis en markbeheer, en fisieseomgewing/sake transaksie modus. Die bevindingeverskil van die ontvangdemodel van die Nigeriesehierargie. Om sterkerinformele-formeleskakelswatvolhoubareendogeneontwikkelingwaarborg, te genereer, word die volgendeaanbevelingsgemaak: (i) die invoerplaasvervangings-program moetingestel word, (ii) die Cluster Concept of Industrial Development Strategy (CCIDS) van 2007 moet implementer word; en (iii) stedelikebeplanningstandaardewat pro-informelesektor is, moet aanvaar word.
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Rincon, de Munoz Betilde. "Determinants of female labor force participation in Venezuela : a cross-sectional analysis." [Tampa, Fla] : University of South Florida, 2007. http://purl.fcla.edu/usf/dc/et/SFE0001985.
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Tañada, Cristina R. "The sustainability of credit assistance to the urban poor : a Philippine case study." Thesis, McGill University, 1994. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=26340.
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Urban poverty in the Philippines is strikingly manifested with the problem of street children. The labour of children is significant because of marginal household incomes. This thesis is an assessment of the credit program of one community based Non-Government Organization in Manila. The Family and Children for Empowerment (FCED), attempts to augment household incomes through the provision of low interest loans to women for informal micro-enterprises. The study is exploratory. The results reveal that most beneficiaries have achieved an income high enough to prevent their children from working and give families the opportunity to improve their standards of living. However, limitations exist in the informal sector which hinder the expansion and stability of the enterprises. Also, the cooperative credit program itself is at a critical stage. The study finds an urgent need for the cooperative to implement measures for capital build-up if it wants to continue to subsidize and provide its low interest credit loans to urban poor petty traders and products.
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Johansson, Sandra. "The informal sector and the potential role of microfinance institutions in Ethiopia." Thesis, Linnéuniversitetet, Institutionen för samhällsvetenskaper, SV, 2010. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:lnu:diva-11165.
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In Ethiopia, the economic dilemmas facing the country have had various effects on the society at large. Given this situation, the high rates of urbanization and uneployment has resulted in that more and more people end up in small-scale activities within the informal economy. Although the informal sector has become increasingly noticeable in Addis Ababa, it is commonly neglected and separated from the formal economy. In light of the contemporary Ethiopian society, this study has nonetheless argued that the wide range of economic activities found within the informal sector is indispensable and should be integrated with the formal economy. Instead of perceiving the informal economy as an economic malfunction, this study has aimed to explore its future potential through the help of microfinance institutions. It has also looked into how the informal sector can be defined and its main characteristics. To gain an increased understanding of how informal workers perceive their own life situation, semi-structured interviews have been carried out with informal workers from the Meklit Microfinance Institution. The theoretical framework of Friedmann's 'Whole Economy Model' and 'Disempowerment Model' was moreover applied in recognizing the role of the household as well as to which extent MFIs could be said to have increased the social power of the informal sector. The main conclusions of this essay are that there are highly diverse features of informal workers and their businesses, which accordingly implies that MFIs need to reflect this diversity in their general operations. Although MFIs were recognized as carrying a strong potential for the development of informal activities, there were some identified obstacles in for example their organizational structure which consequently affected the profitability of their clients' businesses. The role of Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) was also recognized as having the possibility to develop into a new type of labout union as to empower the informal sector and gradually lead to a natural continuation of the formal economy.
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Vachon, Tania. "Les femmes dans le secteur informel urbain : le cas de l'Amérique centrale." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 1997. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk2/ftp04/mq26368.pdf.
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Bowman, Gary. "An empirical analysis of a scenario-informed strategic planning process : a public sector case." Thesis, University of St Andrews, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10023/1978.
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This thesis lies at the nexus of scenario planning and strategy. Scenario planning is a foresight activity used extensively in strategic planning and public policy development to imagine alternative, plausible futures as means to understand the driving forces behind the uncertainties and possibilities of a changing environment. Despite significant application in both private and public sectors, and a growing body of academic and practitioner-orientated literature, little empirical evidence exists about how organisations actually use scenario planning to inform strategy. Moreover, the emerging Strategy-as-Practice (S-as-P) perspective, which has exposed strategy to more sociological pursuits, presented a way of conceiving and studying strategy not as something an organisation has, but rather as something people do. By examining the activities of scenario planning, understanding its use as an example of episodic, interactive strategizing, S-as-P provides a theoretical lens through which to perform a much-needed empirical analysis of the scenario-to-strategy process. A second goal of the thesis is to advance understanding of the S-as-P perspective by addressing recent criticisms as well as contributing to the growing body of practice-based research. The central research question which guides the thesis is, how does an organisation use scenario planning to inform the strategic planning process? To answer this question, the research vehicle is a single, in-depth case study of community planning in Fife, which extends from 1999 until April 2008. A detailed, longitudinal narrative of Fife’s scenario planning and strategy process is presented before using empirical evidence from the case to understand how an organisation manages the scenario planning process, how scenario planning affects policy development, and how cognitive processes manifest physically in an organisation. The thesis concludes that scenario planning created a sensemaking/sensegiving framework that provided structural and interpretive legitimacy which facilitated communicative activities and helped the Fife Partnership understand and improve the interconnectedness of Fife’s public services and community planning process. While contributing to the S-as-P research agenda, the investigation of the scenario-to-strategy process also revealed, and solidified, a number of criticisms that challenge the theoretical, conceptual, and empirical validity of the strategy-as-practice perspective.
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Nordell, Victoria, and Elin Niklasson. "Integrating gender and environmental issues : A case study on gender mainstreaming within the organisation of WIEGO and their waste management projects in Brazil." Thesis, Jönköping University, Högskolan för lärande och kommunikation, 2021. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:hj:diva-53874.
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The world is facing a global waste crisis due to half of the waste produced not being collected, treated or safely disposed of. Waste not managed in a proper way causes air and water pollution and has negative health and social impacts on people living or working close to the waste. Alt- hough evidence shows that implementing gender approaches improves environmental issues, and the majority of waste pickers are women, few organisations focused on waste management are implementing gender mainstreaming into their work. This case study examines gender main- streaming within the organisation Women in Informal Employment: Globalising and Organising (WIEGO) in relation to environmental issues. WIEGO is an international organisation working to increase the voice, visibility and validity of the working poor, with a special emphasis on women, with a core project that supports cooperative waste picker women in Brazil. The study was conducted through two interviews on local and international level and the analysis of 20 documents describing WIEGO and its work. The theories and concepts of gender mainstreaming, intersectionality, Feminist Political Ecology and Environmental Justice were used to analyse the results. The study showed that WIEGO was implementing gender mainstreaming in their opera- tive work, in the policy framework and in the waste picker projects in Brazil which has resulted in physical and emotional improvements for WIEGO employees internationally and waste pick- ers in Brazil. <<<Världen står inför en global avfallshanteringskris där hälften av allt avfall som produceras inte insamlas, hanteras eller kasseras på ett säkert sätt. Avfall som inte hanteras säkert skapar luft- och vattenföroreningar och har negativa hälsosamma och sociala effekter för människor som lever eller arbetar nära avfallet. Trots att forskning visar att genusperspektiv förbättrar miljö- problem, och att majoriteten av avfallshanterare är kvinnor, fokuserar få organisationer som hanterar avfall på ”gender mainstreaming” i sitt arbete. Denna fallstudie undersöker ”gender mainstreaming” i organisationen Women in Informal Employment: Globalising and Organising (WIEGO) i relation till miljöproblem. WIEGO är en internationell organisation som arbetar med att öka inflytandet, synligheten och validiteten hos fattiga arbetande, med ett särskilt fokus på kvinnor, med ett kärnprogram som stöttar kooperativ av avfallshanterande kvinnor i Brasi- lien. Studien genomfördes med två intervjuer på lokal och internationell nivå och analys av 20 dokument som beskriver WIEGO och dess arbete. Teorierna och koncepten ”gender mainstrea- ming”, intersektionalitet, Feministisk Politisk Ekologi och miljörättvisa användes för att analy- sera resultaten. Studien visar att WIEGO använder sig av ”gender mainstreaming” i sitt opera- tiva arbete, i sitt policyramverk och i avfallshanteringsprojekten i Brasilien, vilket resulterat it fysiska och emotionella förbättringar för WIEGOs internationellt anställda och för de avfalls- hanterande kvinnorna i Brasilien.
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Carlsson, Josefine, and Linnéa Falk. "Att styra informellt : En studie om hur digitaliseringen påverkar användningen och anpassningen av informella styrmedel inom banksektorn." Thesis, Linköpings universitet, Företagsekonomi, 2020. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:liu:diva-166071.
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Bakgrund: Banksektorn befinner sig i en allt mer komplex och föränderlig miljö på grund av digitaliseringen och dess påverkan på samhället. Till följd av den snabbföränderliga marknaden ställs det krav på hur bankerna internt organiserar sin verksamhet för att fortsatt vara konkurrenskraftiga. De mindre formella styrmedlen har därav fått en mer central roll då de är mer flexibla och lättare kan anpassas utifrån den snabbrörliga omgivningen. För att uppnå en flexibilitet som gör att bankerna kan följa med i förändringen krävs därför en förståelse för de informella styrmedlens anpassning och användning i samband med den digitala förändringen. Syfte: Studien syftar till att bidra med en ökad förståelse för hur de informella styrmedlen kan användas och anpassas för att möta förändringsprocesser såsom digitalisering. Metod: Studien är en kvalitativ tvärsnittsstudie där fyra banker studerats. Empirin består av sju semistrukturerade intervjuer med medarbetare på svenska banker. Vidare utgår studien från ett hermeneutistiskt perspektiv med en abduktiv ansats. Slutsats: Studien visar att bankerna använder sig av de informella styrmedlen kommunikation, kompetensutveckling och organisationskultur för att möta den digitala förändringen. Samtliga styrmedel har påverkats och anpassats på olika sätt för att möta digitaliseringen. Kommunikationen har blivit mer frekvent och lättillgänglig, kompetensutvecklingen sker mer digitalt och slutligen har företagskulturen behövt anamma en mer tillitsbaserad och öppen kultur. För att bankerna ska kunna möta den digitala förändringen på marknaden påvisar studien vikten av att kommunikation, kompetensutveckling och organisationskulturen används för att skapa ett lärandeklimat som främjar förändring. Slutligen måste de informella styrmedlen samspela för att skapa rätt förutsättningar för bankerna att möta den digitala utvecklingen och därav är ledarens roll av betydelse för ett integrerat användande av styrmedlen.Background: The banking sector is acting in an increasingly complex and changing environment due to digitalization. Because of the rapidly changing market, requirements have been set for how the banks internally organize their operations in order to remain competitive. Informal control systems have therefore become more central as they are more flexible and more easily to adapt to the fast-moving environment. In order to achieve a flexibility that allows the banks to stay competitive, an understanding of the adaptation and use of the informal control systems in connection with the digital change is required. Aim: The study aims to contribute to an increased understanding of how the informal control systems can be used and adapted to meet change such as digitalization. Methodology: The study uses a qualitative cross-sectional study design where four banks have been studied. The empirical data consists of seven semi structured interviews with employees of Swedish banks. Furthermore, the study is based on a hermeneutic philosophical standpoint with an abductive approach. Conclusion: The study shows that the banks use communication, competence development and organizational culture to meet the digital change. The informal control systems have been influenced and adapted in different ways to meet the digitalization. Communication has become more frequent and easily accessible, the competence development is more digital, and the organizational culture has had to adopt a more trustbased and open culture. In order for the banks to be able to meet the digital change, the study shows the importance of using communication, competence development and organizational culture to create a learning climate that promotes change. Finally, the informal control systems must interact with each other in order to create the right conditions for the banks to meet the digital development. Hence the role of the leader is important to make sure that the control systems are used in an integrated way
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Casteberg, Anna, and Emelie Hägglund. "Att mäta organisationsförändring : En studie om att mäta formella och informella element vid en organisationsförändring i offentlig sektor." Thesis, Södertörns högskola, Institutionen för ekonomi och företagande, 2012. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:sh:diva-16994.
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Syftet med uppsatsen är att ta reda på hur en organisationsförändring kan mätas med avseende på formella och informella element samt att presentera hur mätprocessen kan genomföras. Studien bygger på intervjuer och dokumenterade utvärderingar. Studien visar att de formella elementen mäts genom att kontrollera att målen som satts upp inför förändringen är uppfyllda. De informella elementen mäts genom medarbetarundersökningar dock utan någon koppling till förändringen som har genomförts. När de informella elementen mäts i en förändringsprocess görs detta genom så kallade attitydmätningar. För att underlätta mätningen av en förändringsprocess kan en uppdelning göras i fyra stadier; förberedelse, före, under och efter.The purpose of this paper is to find out how a planned organizational change can be measured in terms of formal and informal elements and to present how a measure process can be done. The study is based on interviews and documented evaluations. The formal elements are measured by controlling that the goals for the organizational change are achieved. The informal elements are measured through employee surveys but without any connection to the organizational change that has been done. When the informal elements are measured in an organizational change it is done by attitude measures. To facilitate the measurement of an organizational change it can be separated in four stages, preparation, before, during and after.
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van, der Veen Marjolein Katrien. "Rethinking prostitution: Analyzing an informal sector industry." 2002. https://scholarworks.umass.edu/dissertations/AAI3039400.
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This dissertation conducts a class analysis of prostitution using the class analytical framework developed over recent years by AESA (the Association of Economic and Social Analysis). It remedies the neglect of class analyses of sex work in the literature on this industry, and demonstrates the very different insights such an analysis makes possible. It moves beyond the debates on prostitution that interrogate the buying and selling (or commodification) of sex on the market, to analyze the very high rates of profit (or surplus extraction) circulating within some sectors of this industry. It argues that there exist different class structures of prostitution (slave, feudal, independent, capitalist, and communal), which differently impact the rates of surplus extraction, the services produced by sex workers, and their working conditions in general. More specifically, the dissertation argues that the class relations of prostitution affect the extent to which sex workers are able to choose their clients, the number of clients they see, the services they provide, and thus their ability to protect themselves from unsafe, dangerous, or degrading work. The dissertation also demonstrates the unique influence of culture, politics, and the law in shaping the economics of prostitution, and thereby offers a new kind of economic analysis of the contemporary sex industry. The various moral judgments, laws, social policies, court decisions, enforcement standards, informal policing practices, and industry self-regulation shape and constrain in particular ways the earnings obtained by sex workers, the prices of prostitution services, and generally the cost and revenue flows within the sex industry. The dissertation draws on a comparison of the different regulatory climate in the U.S. and in the Netherlands to show how different moral and regulatory regimes prohibiting or permitting prostitution activities can contribute to the emergence of new class structures of prostitution and the suppression of others. The dissertation thereby contributes to the current rethinking and debates over prostitution as a contemporary industry with powerful social effects.
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"Local government intervention in the informal sector : a case study of the Yeoville market." Thesis, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13405.
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M.A. (Development Studies)With the ever-increasing rate of urbanisation, developing countries are faced with a new problem - that is, the decline in the urban environment and living conditions. This scenario is likely to further deteriorate due to unprecedented levels of population growth and rural-urban and international migration. The employment-carrying capacity of urban areas is eroded by these trends, resulting in an influx of labour, which cannot be absorbed by the formal sector. As a way of circumventing poverty, the urban unemployed population resort to informal activities for survival, regardless of the legal consequences. The literature on the informal sector is very controversial. This is partly because the nature of the sector itself is contradictory and defies precise definition. More importantly, various analysts and policy-makers approach the informal sector with different expectations. These different expectations of the informal sector are, in turn, related to the preconceived points of view of the analysts as to what constitutes the proper dynamics of the informal sector and what the role of the sector is in alleviating urban poverty. Central to the views on the role of the informal sector in urban poverty alleviation have been the concerns of governments of developing countries on whether to support it or control its activities. The realisation by governments of the need for expansion of the informal sector has resulted in their intervention in this sector by means of regulations, programmes and frameworks to define how the business activities should be carried out. Interventions in the informal sector have resulted in a distortion of the production structure in favour of the formal sector. On the other hand, the very nature of informality and its inherent characteristics stimulate profitability for the hawkers (peddlers) or the small business entrepreneurs. The formalisation of the informal sector eradicates the economic dynamics, which necessitate the viability of the activities being undertaken. The consequences have been the further impoverishment of the small-scale entrepreneurs...
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De, Kock Rachelle. "Garbage picking as a strategy for survival : a case study of a sub- sector of the informal sector." Thesis, 1987. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/6327.
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In the past few years there has been a dramatic increase in research
dealing with the informal sector in South Africa. This research is
often motivated by academic curiosity as well as a growing concern
over poverty and unemployment among South Africa's blacks. It has
increasingly been suggested by academics, businessmen and government
officials that the informal sector be developed and encouraged in
appropriate directions in order to provide employment opportunities.
This thesis is a case study of a group of people who are officially
unemployed, and who work in the informal sector in order to survive.
The economic activity they are involved with, represents a subsector
of the informal sector namely, garbage picking.
The first question that is addressed in the study deals with the
problems inherent in the conceptualisation of the informal sector.
There are many interpretations of what comprises this sector,
depending in part on the stage of development that has been reached by
the local economy and on the theoretical perspective used in the
analysis. There are also many perspectives on whether the sector is
independent and autonomous and on the extent to which it is
intergrated into the economy of a country. Chapters 1 and 2 contain
critical examination of the literature dealing with these aspects. In chapter 3 the characteristics of the informal sector are studied.
Several case studies from different parts of the world are examined.
Chapter 4 examines the marginality concept in relation to the garbage
pickers with a view to determining the extent to which these people
are marginalised in society.
Attention is then directed towards the particular case study. The
characteristics of garbage picking and the people who do this work,
as well as the conditions under which they work, are examined in
chapters 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 of the thesis.
The results show that there is very little potential for the garbage
picker to improve his/her position within the informal sector. The
garbage pickers regard formal sector employment as their only way out
of their present position and, given present circumstances, it seems
that their view is correct.
However, since the likelihood of their finding formal wage employment
seems very limited, alternatives were examined and it seems that
within the garbage industry the potential does exist to create
formal sector jobs for the pickers. This potential can, however, only
be realised once the garbage industry recognises this and re-organise
itself to employ these people on a permanent basis.Thesis (M.Dev.Studies)-University of Natal, 1987.
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Musi, Mokone. "The informal cross-border trade : the case of informal cross-border trade between Lesotho and Durban - South Africa." Thesis, 2002. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/4790.
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The processes of globalisation and trade liberalisation promote formal international trade world-wide. The processes have been accompanied by the renewed vigour to improve international competitiveness of the formal enterprises. Amidst these changes, there is a growing interest in the extent of informal sector activity as a form of income generating or subsistence activity within the developed and developing countries. However, little agreement exists in the literature as to what constitutes the informal economy, what activities in addition to monetary exchange make up the informal economy and where these activities are located. The lack of consensus on the proper definition is reflected in the lack of systematic information about all the caveats of this sector. As a result, the informal crossborder trade has failed to attract attention of the academic researchers. Little is known about whether the benefits of globalisation and trade liberalisation trickle down to the lower end of the informal sector. This study explores and describes the problems faced by the Lesotho informal cross-border traders operating between Lesotho and Durban. It provides a profile of their experiences and problems along different stages of their journey. That is between their homes and the border gates, at the border gates on the their way to Durban, on their journey to Durban, in Durban, and the border gates on their return journey to Lesotho. This study examines the relationships between these traders and the traders in Durban. It tracts what happens to their goods once they are imported into Lesotho. The study concludes that trade and non-trade barriers pose a number of serious problems for the informal traders, and therefore hinder the development of international trade in the informal sector.Thesis (M.Dev. Studies)-University of Natal, Durban, 2002.
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Krige, Dulcie Jean. "The urban informal sector in South Africa : what options for development? : a case study of KwaMashu, Natal." Thesis, 1985. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/7636.
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In the past few years there has been a dramatic increase in research
on the informal sector in South Africa. Motivating this research,
besides academic curiosity, is growing concern over poverty and unemployment amongst South African blacks. The general belief that these factors have contributed significantly to the political unrest
now sweeping the country is another encouragement to research. What is
being increasingly suggested, not only by academics but also by
government officials, businessmen and others, is that the informal
sector could be developed in appropriate directions to provide jobs
raise living standards and (hence) promote political stability.
Attention is now being focused on the question of how best to achieve
this objective. In this thesis, proposals for 'developing ' the
informal sector in South Africa are examined by a careful analysis of
the relevant literature and an in-depth case study of the KwaZulu
township, KwaMashu.
The first question that needs to be addressed is how to conceptualise
the informal sector. There are many interpretations, depending in
part on the stage of development attained by the local economy, of
what comprises this sector. Does it only consist of the poor, the
unlicenced, the untaxed, the unprotected, the harassed? There are
many perspectives, too, on whether the informal sector is independent
and autonomous or whether it is integrated into the economy in ways
that might impede or facilitate its development. It has been argued,
for example, that the state and capital determine the parameters of the informal sector at a level most functional to their requirements.
These interpretations are critically examined in Chapters One and Two
with particular reference to South Africa.
Attention is then directed towards the particular case of KwaMashu.
The research methodology is discussed in Chapter Three. The approach
adopted here combined random-sample questionnaires and case study
methods. In order to locate the research in its geographical,
temporal and political setting the history of KwaMashu is also briefly
reviewed. The research results (which cover the extent, viability,
potential and difficulties of the informal sector), are examined in
Chapters Four to Six. Chapter Four gives the results of the survey -
including three detailed case studies and the findings of the
questionnaire survey. In Chapter Five garment makers and retailers
(two categories which together make up a large component of the
KwaMashu informal sector) are analysed more closely using information
obtained from case studies. The field work included interviews, not
only with informal sector participants, but also with the officials
whose decisions influence the development of the informal sector. The
latter is examined in Chapter Six. An important finding particularly relevant for policy decisions - concerned the division in
levels of informal sector operation and the policy decisions affecting
each level. The concluding chapter combines the findings of
literature surveys with the empirical results from KwaMashu in order
to assess the opportunities for and the limits to informal sector
'development' in South Africa. Practical and realistic means by which
those in this sector might be assisted are also discussed in some
detail.Thesis (M.Dev.Studies)-University of Natal, Durban, 1985.
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"Enhancing the prospects of small scale and informal retailers in fresh produce value chains : an examination of the developmental impact of public sector market facilities on formal and informal retailers in selected KwaZulu-Natal markets." Thesis, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/543.
Full textAbstract:
The aim of the research was to identify the constraints that restrict the development of informal
and small formal retailers, and highlight potential opportunities that may assist in strengthening
their position within the value chain. It explored the functioning of two municipal-managed
static fresh produce markets in KwaZulu-Natal: Durban and Pietermaritzburg.
The investigation revealed that informal and small formal retailers have relatively little impact on
the fresh produce value chain and that the structure of static markets is not conducive to these
groups because of their lack of capital and inability to buy produce in bulk. Predominant
constraints to their economic growth include high cost of transport, high prices of produce and
competition with other traders. In addition, police harassment was identified in Durban as one of
the dominant constraints, but was not reflected in Pietermaritzburg.
However, opportunities for small and informal retailers to strengthen their position were
identified as increasing the market access for retailers, through the provision of transport,
informal training workshops, cold storage facilities in the city, the formation of cooperatives and
access to micro-credit.
This research argues that attention must be given to enhancing the interests and role of small and
informal retailers in governance and operational processes within fresh produce markets. The
necessity of the development of social networks (also argued by Meagher 1995) is a critical
factor in determining the success of informal and micro enterprises and could contribute to
institutional reforms that help address the information and access asymmetries in the fresh
produce market environment.
Following the completion of this dissertation, it was distributed along with the appended log
frames to the management at the Durban and Pietermaritzburg, market agents and informal
retailer groups that participated. It will also be disseminated through the Learning, Monitoring
and Research Facility, who funded part of the research, and is hoped that the information will aid informal retailers and empower those that were involved.Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, 2008.
34
Makusha, Tawanda. "The impact of hyperinflation on small to medium enterprises in Harare, Zimbabwe : the case of the formal and infomal at Avondale Shopping Centre." Thesis, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/1634.
Full textAbstract:
The pattern of a classical hyperinflation is an acute acceleration of inflation to levels above 1000% generally associated with printing money to finance large fiscal deficits due to wars, revolutions, and the end of empires or the establishment of new states (Coorey et al, 2007: 3). After World War I, a handful of European economies succumbed to hyperinflation. Austria, Germany, Hungary, Poland, and Russia all racked up enormous price increases, with Germany recording an astronomical 3.25 million percent in a single month in 1923 (Reinhart and Savastano, 2003: 1). Since the 1950s, hyperinflation has been confined to the developing world and the transition economies. Zimbabwe currently has the highest rate of inflation in the world with an annual rate of 7982.1% in September 2007 (RBZ Website, 1/11/07). This paper examines the impact of hyperinflation on Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Harare, Zimbabwe with aims of revealing how SMEs were affected by hyperinflation and other factors linked to the phenomenon.Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2007.
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Nkuna, Isaac. "Trade in woodcrafts in the Hazyview area, Mupumalanga Province as a source of income for informal traders." Thesis, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/3419.
Full textAbstract:
The study examines the woodcraft trade in the Hazyview area through the application of the value chain methodology as adapted from the works of writers such as Kaplinsky and Morris (2001), McCormick and Schmitz (2002) and Sturgeon (2001). Several methods of collecting data were employed (triangulation): value chain analysis, interviews, observation and focus group discussions. The findings reveal that the woodcraft value chain comprises several actors: the informal craft workers, assistant craft workers, retailers and consumers of crafts, located at the various levels of the chain. The informal craft workers, who are the main focus of this study, are mostly involved in the production and selling level of the value chain, while the formal traders (e.g. craft retailers, wholesalers, curio shop owners) are involved in selling, marketing and branding of the crafts. Although craft workers also sell and 'market' their crafts by the roadside, the findings show that these activities do not yield substantial profit for them, as they lack the necessary rents to make a sustainable income out of crafts. The lack of innovation (introduction of new products), product diversification, access to new markets, and other factors that characterize the informal wood craft trade have implications in terms of competitiveness and the sustainability of the woodcraft trade as a source of income of the informal traders. The findings show that the challenges facing the informal woodcraft traders are also aggravated by high levels of competition that has emerged in recent years due to globalization and democratization, which have seen the opening of South African borders to craft workers from other parts of the world, especially Africa. Of importance though is the fact that the informal traders lack crucial rents that are essential for them to remain competitive. These rents include: resource, marketing, infrastructure, financial and policy rents. The findings show that, unless traders acquire these rents their trade remains uncompetitive and unsustainable. There are also economic and environmental implications emanating from the findings as the analysis shows that wood for carving is no longer a free natural resource as it used to be in the past years, but a scarce economic resource. The analysis further shows that the problems that traders experience are both endogenous and exogenous in nature. It is clear that traders need to deal with endogenous issues such as innovation, upgrading of the value chains, diversification and other internal issues and processes. With the necessary support, traders could deal with these problems. Policy would, however, need to address exogenous issues such as controlling the flooding of the SA craft market with cheap crafts, mostly from the neighbouring states and other countries in Africa (not excluding countries outside the continent of Africa). Creating an 'enabling environment' for the woodcraft trade is important e.g. Financial, logistic, capital and other support measures. Indeed, what has emerged in the analysis of this study is that people's livelihoods (under the current and prevailing conditions) are under threat. In the context of poverty and high unemployment levels, something would have to be done to deal with the crisis facing the informal traders. This study concludes by making the necessary recommendations on what could be done to redress the situation.Thesis (M.Dev.Studies)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2004.
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Peer, Nazish. "Assessing banking services for women working in the informal economy : the case of the Mzansi account." Thesis, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/423.
Full textAbstract:
Rutherford's research demonstrates that "the poor can save, do save, and want to save money" (Rutherford, 1999: 7). Furthermore, if given a formal bank account this correlates with the poor being more likely to save (Porteous and Hazelhurst, 2004: 63). But in 2004, the unbanked made up 54.5% of the South African adult population (FinScope, 2006: 18). In the same year, to draw more people into the realm of the banked the Mzansi account was launched. The account is a first order transactional product and a saving service which targets poor clients from LSM 1-5. Mzansi account holders are found to be significantly more likely to be informally employed or unemployed (Porteous, 2007: 10). Yet there is a research gap about the financial behaviour of those working informally. This study draws on the experiences of women working in the informal economy who utilise the Mzansi account. It aims to determine the limitations and benefits of the account. It also seeks to learn what role the Mzansi account plays in the savings habits of the women and how it influences their livelihood strategies. This is with a view to recommending how the services of the Mzansi account can be improved so as to maximise its support of informal workers. The research suggests that the intrinsic benefits of the Mzansi account are that the account's bank charges are lower compared to other bank accounts, a small initial deposit is needed to open the Mzansi account and a proper address is not required to open the account. The interviewees highlight five day-to-day limitations on the Mzansi account. First, interviewees identify the lack of a bank book to view the transactional activities occurring in the account as a problem. Second, the cap on the account where a maximum of Rl5 000 is only permitted hinders the potential to save money in the account and receIve insurance pay outs. Third, the cost and frequency of bank charges are still expensive. Fourth, the distance to access banks or ATMs for the women in semi-rural areas makes it difficult and costly for them to access their bank account. Lastly the issue of crime is a problem when utilising ATMs. Savings from the Mzansi account influence livelihood outcomes by enabling investment in funeral insurance through debit orders. This investment helps mitigate future vulnerability. In terms of livelihoods and the women's businesses, the savings from the Mzansi account are used for the purchasing of stock. This may not improve livelihood outcomes by generating further income but it maintains the women's business stability.
money" (Rutherford, 1999: 7). Furthermore, if given a formal bank account this
correlates with the poor being more likely to save (Porteous and Hazelhurst, 2004: 63).
But in 2004, the unbanked made up 54.5% of the South African adult population
(FinScope, 2006: 18). In the same year, to draw more people into the realm of the banked
the Mzansi account was launched. The account is a first order transactional product and a
saving service which targets poor clients from LSM 1-5.
Mzansi account holders are found to be significantly more likely to be informally
employed or unemployed (Porteous, 2007: 10). Yet there is a research gap about the
financial behaviour of those working informally. This study draws on the experiences of
women working in the informal economy who utilise the Mzansi account. It aims to
determine the limitations and benefits of the account. It also seeks to learn what role the
Mzansi account plays in the savings habits of the women and how it influences their
livelihood strategies. This is with a view to recommending how the services of the
Mzansi account can be improved so as to maximise its support of informal workers.
The research suggests that the intrinsic benefits of the Mzansi account are that the
account's bank charges are lower compared to other bank accounts, a small initial deposit
is needed to open the Mzansi account and a proper address is not required to open the
account.
The interviewees highlight five day-to-day limitations on the Mzansi account. First,
interviewees identify the lack of a bank book to view the transactional activities
occurring in the account as a problem. Second, the cap on the account where a maximum
of Rl5 000 is only permitted hinders the potential to save money in the account and
receIve insurance pay outs. Third, the cost and frequency of bank charges are still
expensive. Fourth, the distance to access banks or ATMs for the women in semi-rural
areas makes it difficult and costly for them to access their bank account. Lastly the issue
of crime is a problem when utilising ATMs. Savings from the Mzansi account influence livelihood outcomes by enabling investment
in funeral insurance through debit orders. This investment helps mitigate future
vulnerability. In terms of livelihoods and the women's businesses, the savings from the
Mzansi account are used for the purchasing of stock. This may not improve livelihood
outcomes by generating further income but it maintains the women's business stability.Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2008.
37
Cocks, Lynne. "The influence of personality on small business success : two South African case studies." Thesis, 2002. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/3656.
Full textAbstract:
This study is concerned with the start-up of small business ventures and the ultimate success of these small businesses. Research was carried out in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, which is mainly a very rural, under-developed province. Unemployment is high and much of the population is faced with the challenge of earning income from means other than in formal employment. However, the failure rate of the small business start-ups is extremely high. The study addresses the question whether or not there are leading indicators that will help to predict future success in business, specifically whether the personal profile can indicate the probability of future success. In summary the research found that no significant correlation existed between business growth and personality profile when measured with the established business group, when using the DISCUSTM personality profile test. This could be due to either one or both the following reasons: • No correlation exists between personality profile, success and growth, or • the DISCUSTM personality profile test's entrepreneurial category job match is not valid and reliable, and an alternative personality profile for this particular job match category needs to be developed. Secondly, a significant relationship was found to exist between level of literacy and start-up success according to the longitudinal study of a student group. No correlation was found to exist between level of numeracy and start-up success. Although there was a correlation between personality profile test results and start-up success with the student group, it can not be stated at this stage that this is a leading indicator for future business growth and sustainability, as success was only measured at start-up. These start-up businesses need to be monitored at least over the next three years in order to measure the internal growth of the businesses as compared to those achieved by the established business group. This is an area for further research.Thesis (M.Com.)-University of Natal, Durban, 2002.
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Khoza, Makhosi B. "An analysis of the growing need for municipalities in South Africa to develop sound informal trading policies." Thesis, 2002. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/4012.
Full textAbstract:
Despite numerous research efforts and a number of 'friendly' national policies on the field of the informal economy in South Africa, there does seem to be a continuous public policy conflict at local government level in this country. The evolution of the informal economy and the policy crisis at local government level seem to be largely shaped by the legacy of colonialism and racial capitalism.
This study focuses on three critical policy areas of informal trading, namely; the taxi industry; the shebeens that belong to the category of home based economy; and street traders. These three are the oldest form of informal economic activities pursued by the Africans (indigenous people).
The study will investigate the progress of informal trading as a critical policy area for municipalities made thus far since the democratisation of South Africa in 1994. It confronts the lack of progress by this sphere of government. It concludes by exposing the neglect of the three types of informal trading. It also concludes that the development of sound informal economic policies at municipal level is a prerequisite as there are national policies and legislation that need to be adhered to. The study recognises that despite the development of sound informal economic policies being obligatory, there is an underlying social, political, environmental and economic need for this important process. It finally identifies the specific critical areas that need to be addressed and recommends a policy process that is participatory, credible and progressive.Thesis (M.Soc.Sc.)-University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2002.
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Naidoo, Kibashini. "Work and life of women in the informal sector : a case study of the Warwick Avenue Triangle." Thesis, 1993. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/7607.
Full textAbstract:
This thesis presents a case study of women working in the informal sector in the Warwick Avenue Triangle of Durban. It documents and analyses the ways in which twenty women experience and contribute to recent changes in the urban informal sector. The women in this study are seen as knowledgeable agents who actively participate in their changing social and spatial worlds. In order to do this structuration theory, as a general philosophy of society, has been drawn on and linked to substantiative bodies of theory on the informal sector and feminist theory in geography. Field methods, appropriate to the investigation of meanings the informal sector were employed. The data collected was qualitatively interpreted in the light of the theory. The thesis concludes with a summary of the main findings and suggestions are made for policy and areas of future research on women in the informal sector.Thesis (M.Soc.Sci.)-University of Natal, Durban, 1993.
40
Rasool, Fathima. "Challenges facing informal sector micro-enterprises in Newlands West : the case of female owned home-based dress-making enterprises." Thesis, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/1553.
Full textAbstract:
This study seeks to investigate the challenges facing informal sector micro-enterprises in Newlands
West, using the case study of female owned home-based dress making enterprises in the South West
of Durban. The investigation, which aims at establishing the historical background to these micro-enterprises, their main activities and their viability, and the challenges they are facing, will be conducted in the context of the broader debate both in South Africa (SA) and globally about the informal sector, to which micro-enterprises would arguably belong. This study also aims to contribute towards research and future policy developments in the field of home-based enterprises. Many of these workers have set-up home-based micro-enterprises as a means of creating employment in order to sustain their livelihoods. The purpose of this study is thus to highlight the potential of these micro-enterprises to create employment and alleviate poverty. The qualitative research method is used in this study. In-depth, semi-structured interviews using purposive sampling were conducted with ten owner-managers. Data was analysed using the
constant comparative method of analysis. The conclusion drawn from this study was that these micro-enterprises received hardly any support from the local municipality or provincial government to grow their businesses. The study also found that there is potential for these owner-managers, with appropriate state support, to grow their businesses, make greater profits and create jobs. Some of the recommendations offered in this study include: a system of mentorship should be established to assist informal micro-enterprise owners improve their business acumen. They should be given enterprise support as none of the
dressmakers underwent any form of business training. There should be development of the following skills: Financial management, production management, technical training, marketing and sales and understanding the regulatory environment.Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2007.
41
Mkhize, Sibongile S. "Exploring the second hand clothes trade : the case of Durban, South Africa." Thesis, 2003. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/4351.
Full text
42
Devey, Richard Michael. "Characteristics of informal economy workers and their households : concepts and measurement using household surveys." Thesis, 2003. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/4346.
Full textAbstract:
This study describes the characteristics of informal economy workers and their households. The central reasons for initiating the study were twofold. Firstly, the informal economy has grown in size and it is increasingly recognised as an important component of the economy. Secondly, it is widely agreed that accurate measurement of the informal economy has not been achieved. Thus, the study aimed to describe the informal economy using the most up-to-date national labour force survey as well as assess how accurately the informal economy has been measured with that instrument.
The informal economy has developed as a result of globalisation and the
technological revolution (amongst other factors) according to researchers.
Recognition that workers within the informal economy (and those subject to
informalisation within the formal economy) are not achieving fair labour standards has led to efforts to re-conceptualise work. The informal economy is extremely difficult to define and four conceptual models are described in this study. Each of the models agrees that the informal economy operates outside the ambit of formal activities, thus a form of dualism is defined, and that the economy is heterogeneous in character. The models differ in how the informal economy interrelates with the formal economy; the dualist model proposes there is no interaction while the legalist model states that a superior-subordinate relationship exists between the two. Competing models view the informal economy as either survivalist or as a vibrant, productive entity. A notable characteristic of the informal economy is flexibility in working conditions. This study will contribute to debate on the nature and measurement of the informal economy in South Africa. The method used in this study was secondary analysis of the Labour Force Survey. Integrating elements of theory and measurement, it is suggested that the design of the
survey instrument reinforces the dualist model. Analysis revealed that different
economies - formal and informal - occur and that, although the two are not mutually exclusive, these exhibit markedly different characteristics. The formal worker and his or her household showed significantly better statistics for a range of demographic, social and economic indicators. Formal employees enjoyed better quality employment relationships than informal workers, as demonstrated by higher proportions in permanent employment and longer duration of employment. Measurement of an interrelationship between the formal and informal economies was hampered by the design of the survey instrument, however, there is evidence that a relationship does exist and this was defined as superior-subordinate in nature. The heterogeneous nature
of the informal economy was confirmed by example of a wide range of occupations, involving varied levels of skill. Generally, the South African informal economy appears to be survivalist in nature, as demonstrated by high frequencies of workers in occupations of low skill as well as by the general poverty and low standard of living exhibited by the informal workers' household. It was recognised that there are categories of worker who are worse off than the informal worker and this finding, along with the observation that disparities exist between different types of worker within the informal economy itself, raises the question of how useful it is to use the
dualist framework for analysis. Informal workers did report higher levels of
flexibility, however, it is argued that this would not compensate for poor statistics recorded for nearly all other indicators measured. Based on the analysis above, it is suggested that the informal worker 'formalise' if
this path is made possible because it is clear that formal workers achieve a
significantly better standard of living. In the long term this goal could be achieved by
improving education levels and by facilitating access to the formal economy. In the
short to medium term the outlook for the informal worker could be improved by
adopting policies that foster improved work conditions, including improved access to
medical aid, paid leave, and some form of pension or retirement plan.
The study concludes that measurement of the informal economy is more accurate than
past attempts, but that further improvement is possible. Given the disparities within
the informal work force and the idea that a dualist approach is not the most effective
conceptualisation of the labour force, the study calls for a flexible survey instrument
that caters for various definitions of the informal worker. The inclusion of additional
questions, for example to measure workers' perceptions of exploitation and
satisfaction with working conditions, is encouraged. These suggestions would
facilitate effective investigation of alternative conceptualisations of the informal
economy through means of the survey instrument.Thesis (M.Dev. Studies)-University of Natal, Durban, 2003.
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Mazengwa, Pudurai Justin. "A business analysis of Zimbabwean cross border trading." Thesis, 2003. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/2232.
Full textAbstract:
There has been an expansion of the informal economy globally, in both developed and developing countries. Among those joining the informal economy are Zimbabwean cross border traders coming to South Africa. This study explores the business environment within which the Zimbabwean cross border traders coming to South Africa operate. It gives an overview of the demographics of traders, the socioeconomic and political environment in which they operate and the nature of their supply relations. It also explores trader's experiences, the problems they face, the role of financial and social capital and the economic contribution of traders. The study made use of business tools, thus introducing new dimension of analysis into the field of informal economy studies. This study not only fills a gap in the literature on migration and informal activities but also concludes by making key policy recommendations.Thesis (M.A.)-University of Natal, Durban, 2003.
44
Mueller, Adria Whitney. "A value chain analysis of cardboard collection in inner city Durban, South Africa." Thesis, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/2932.
Full text
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Cebekhulu, Nhlanhla Michael. "In search of appropriate media (mass media) for the informal sector in a post apartheid South Africa : the city of Durban's street vendors." Thesis, 1995. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/6697.
Full textAbstract:
The investigation to the appropriate mass media for the micro-enterprises (informal sector) is in line with the principle of economic development for post-apartheid South Africa envisaged by the Reconstruction and Development Programme. In many countries, such as Latin America, Japan, United States of America, small business sector is the backbone of the economy, providing jobs and means for large companies to out-source tasks. This also applies to South Africa, the micro-enterprise in this country ''fulfils a social and economic function which neither state owned corporations nor the foreign transnational corporations, can perform. Due to their knowledge of the clientele they are able to determine more precisely the real and basic needs of the society and thereby render people-oriented, as against a purely commercial service" (Mersham and Skinner 1992 :33). However, lack of access to appropriate, relevant and understandable information and advice is one of the most critical aspect which hinders development of small enterprises, particularly, micro-enterprises and survivalist and small start-up enterprises. Due to the past discrimination and lack of opportunities this problem is most serve among black entrepreneurs who are participating in this sector. In addition, the central problem that has an impact in the process of reaching the micro-enterprises is the fact that the nature of communication systems and their relevance for the micro-enterprise activities, seem to have more over-emphasis on the print media. Subsequently, over-emphasis on the print media concentrate efforts on more easily and receptive individuals and communities, ignoring the micro-enterprises that require the service, since the majority of the micro-enterprises are comprised of people who have been disadvantaged by an incomplete education. It becomes therefore, essential to investigate how micro-enterprises consume mass media and the central role it plays so that an appropriate mass medium to reach this sector could be identified. Since my perception is that there is no assurance that the formulated policies and strategies by the Department of Trade and Industry become known to the intended beneficiaries . Most importantly, the approach taken in this study, is the one which tries to understand the role of the mass media in national development but which is more specific to the micro-enterprises. The media are seen as educators or teachers of the micro-enterprises. The ideal is that mass media can be used to teach people skills of different kinds and, under some conditions, to influence the attitudes and behaviour of the micro-enterprises.Thesis (M.A.)-University of Natal, Durban, 1995.
46
Ince, Melissa. "The nature of informal clothing manufacturing in a residential area : the case of Chatsworth." Thesis, 2003. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/4057.
Full text
47
Radingwana, Tiny Mashiane. "Factors encouraging or discouraging men in the informal sector to attend HIV counselling and testing (HCT) in South Africa : a case study of Pretoria." Diss., 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/18404.
Full textAbstract:
In EnglishThe purpose of this study was to establish factors affecting the participation of men working in the informal sector economy of South Africa in HIV counselling and testing (HCT) or voluntary counselling and testing (VCT). This includes the exploration of reasons for acceptance and non-acceptance of HIV testing, knowledge and perceptions about HIV testing and behaviours and attitudes towards HIV testing. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire and a sample of fifty (50) men was purposively selected. It was found that the reasons for acceptance of HIV testing are satisfactory and reasons for non-acceptance are still a concern, and that several issues such as education about HIV testing and HIV in general still need to be addressed. Most of the respondents had undergone testing for HIV, but there is still a stigma attached to HIV testing.
Sociology
M. A. (Social Behaviour Studies in HIV/AIDS)
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N'guessan, Fabienne Kombo. "Social exclusion in women traders associations in Kampala, Uganda." Thesis, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/6466.
Full textAbstract:
This study was prompted by the lack of information on women traders associations in the African context. Women’s participation in the informal economy is increasing due to factors such as high unemployment rate, women’s lower education level compared to men and, the flexibility of entry and exit in the informal sector compared to the formal sector. In general, informal workers do not hold any formal contract determining minimum wage, employment benefits or social protection.
Women continue to face very high barriers to have access to education and training because of the on going gender biases in many societies. Traders associations could hold the potential to relieve women traders from their daily burdens in public markets. This study uses the theory of social exclusion to examine different barriers women face in the market, and the role of traders associations hold in their inclusion.
The nature of the informal sector makes it difficult for traders associations to organise and provide services to their women members. Poorer women within traders associations have serious challenges in trying to be more assertive in their local communities and markets. Gender, class, kinship and ethnicity could all combine to account for their low status in their communities. Women’s integration within trade organisations depends largely on the negotiation of their terms of inclusion. Unfair terms of inclusion can potentially lead and continue unequal power relations as well as wealth inequality among traders.
Qualitative methods were used in this study of women traders in St Balikuddembe market, Kampala, Uganda. Over a period of six weeks, 25 days were spent in the market carefully observing women at work, and then conducting 20 individual interviews and two focus group discussions. The role which traders associations play in women’s lives, the influence they hold in the association and the procedure of integration in the market were examined.
The study revealed that the size of the main traders association for women determines the level of exclusion and its implication in its women members lives. Although OWA could be defined as an MBO, there is in fact a gap in their organisational structures in order to help women integrate better the market. It is in fact too large to be able to reach members, and is not accountable to them. The effect of social exclusion was identified in the gender, class and age of the women.
Women traders of St Balikuddembe market, in trying to achieve inclusion, form smaller self- help groups in addition to the large one. Both kinds of association play very different roles and perform different functions which are equally important in the lives of the women traders.Thesis (M.Dev.Studies)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2011.
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Monib, Leila. "Now they know we are real : skills development and women in the informal economy." Thesis, 2000. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/3752.
Full textAbstract:
The following dissertation examines skills development for women at the poorer ends of the informal economy through a study of members of the Self-Employed Women's Union (SEWU) who were trained in blockmaking in 1996. Since that time, the women have established the microenterprise, Vezi Khono (meaning 'Show the Skills' in Zulu) in the rural area of Ndwedwe in the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal. The dissertation explores the impact this training has had on incomes in the short and medium term, the opposition the women faced and the ability of training to overcome such obstacles, the role of government in skills development strategies, and concludes with ways in which skills development can be improved to better meet the needs women in the informal economy in establishing more sustainable enterprises.Thesis (M.Soc.Sc.)-University of Natal, Durban, 2000.
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Lee, Sabrina. "HIV/AIDS in the informal economy : an analysis of local government's role in addressing the vulnerability of women street traders in Durban." Thesis, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/3477.
Full textAbstract:
The study was motivated by a concern for the high vulnerability of poor African women to
HIV/AIDS in South Africa and an understanding of their role in the growing informal trade
sector in Durban. As the institution responsible for managing informal trade development, this
study examines the role of local government in addressing AIDS vulnerability and impact
within this economic sector.
Local government in South Africa is at the centre of potentially conflicting policy agendas:
promoting citizen participation in social and economic development while creating an efficient
and competitive local economy. The research outlines how the challenge of meeting these
divergent goals has influenced policy approaches to informal trade and the extent to which
these constrain or support women traders and their enterprises. The study examines how this in
turn influences their economic vulnerability to HIV/AIDS. The study also explores the
institutional attitudes and current approaches to addressing HIV/AIDS in the informal trade
sector and explores the potential for a targeted and integrated response.
In-depth interviews with local government staff and external stakeholders were used to
investigate institutional perspectives on the significance of HIV/AIDS and the importance of
creating appropriate local level interventions within informal trade settings. Interviews also
assessed current management and support strategies for informal trade and examined whether
these create an enabling environment for women to protect themselves and their enterprises
against the threat and impact of HIV/AIDS. Interviews were supported by an extensive review
of gender and HIV/AIDS literature and analysis of relevant policy regarding informal economy
and SMME development in South Africa.
The study found that the multiple pressures on local government, as well as institutional
restructuring and staff changes have inhibited progress towards implementing an effective
management strategy for informal trade. A lack of regulation threatens the security and
livelihoods of survivalist women traders, and high barriers to obtaining permits to trade impact
negatively on women due to their multiple constraints and responsibilities. The study revealed
that priority in providing holistic business support, including skills development and financial
services, is skewed towards more profitable enterprises which has excluded most women
traders. This has restricted women's productive capacity and enterprise development and
heightened their economic vulnerability to HIV infection and impact. This is compounded by a
lack of functional, representative organisations to convey the concerns of marginalised female
traders to local government.
It is likely that the prevalence of HIV/AIDS in informal markets in Durban is high. However,
stigma and discrimination has prevented widespread disclosure. The vulnerability of women
and the impact of HIV/AIDS on their enterprises and local economic development is recognised by staff working at street level, but not by key decision makers. This, in
conjunction with the marginalisation of the sector as a whole, has influenced the lack of
progress in developing a co-ordinated multidisciplinary response to HIV/AIDS among informal
workers. Few interventions which directly address HIV/AIDS have been put in place in the
informal workplace, largely because of a lack of understanding of the crisis; its
conceptualisation as a health issue only; and the fixed location of local government's response
within the health department.
Acknowledging the resource and capacity constraints within local government, the study
concludes by outlining a series of realistic potential interventions which can be mainstreamed
within the standard functions of local government. A shift in thinking is required to
conceptualise AIDS as a workplace issue, and recognise the significance of its economic
impact. Women traders need to be considered as valuable and vulnerable workers, as well as
mothers and carers and therefore as an important group for targeted HIV/AIDS interventions.
The study calls for gender-sensitive measures to be implemented, which recognise the specific
needs and constraints of women in the informal trade sector.Thesis (M.Dev.Studies.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2004.