Economic Policy and Human Rights Holding Governments to Account

Economic Policy and Human Rights presents a powerful critique of three decades of neoliberal economic policies, assessed from the perspective of human rights norms. In doing so, it brings together two areas of thought and action that have hitherto been separate: progressive economics concerned with promoting economic justice and human development; and human rights analysis and advocacy.Focussing on in-depth comparative case studies of the USA and Mexico and looking at issues such as public expenditure, taxation and international trade, the book shows that heterodox economic analysis benefits greatly from a deeper understanding of a human rights framework. This is something progressive economists have often been skeptical of, regarding it as too deeply entrenched in 'Western' norms, discourses and agendas. Such a categorical rejection is unwarranted. Instead, human rights norms can provide an invaluable ethical and accountability framework, challenging a narrow focus on efficiency and growth.A vital book for anyone interested in human rights and harnessing economics to create a better world.

Radhika Balakrishnan is Professor of Women and Gender Studies and Executive Director of the Center for Women's Global Leadership at Rutgers University. Diane Elson is Professor in the Department of Sociology and a Member of Human Rights Centre at the University of Essex.

Introduction * Fiscal and Monetary Policy - United States * Fiscal and Monetary Policy - Mexico * Public Expenditure - United States * Public Expenditure - Mexico * Taxation - United States * Taxation - Mexico * International Trade - United States * International Trade - Mexico * Regulatory Policy: The Case of Pension Reform - United States * Regulatory Policy: The Case of Pension Reform - Mexico * Conclusion