The Effects of Western Hemisphere Economic Integration on the Economic, Political, and Social Development of the Dominican Republic
Date of Award
2003
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Social Sciences
First Advisor
Elliott, Catherine
Keywords
Economic Integration, Export Processing Zone, Immiserating Growth
Area of Concentration
Economics
Abstract
The Dominican Republic experienced economic growth, unparalleled in Latin America, between 1990 and 2000. Liberal economic policies which embraced globalization and a move towards a consolidated democracy are often cited as the main catalysts for this economic growth. Economic growth, however, has not been accompanied by equally positive social improvements, and in some cases has led to a decrease in the quality of life of many Dominicans. This paper will analyze how the development of export processing zones, while contributing to economic growth, has had externalities which have affected the quality of life of the Dominican people. The analysis begins with a historical overview, which places the export processing zones within a developmental trajectory. Because the development of the export processing zones is tied to economic integration patterns, the analysis then turns to the theory behind economic integration. Better understanding of the theory allows us to trace economic integration and development trends in the western hemisphere and, finally, to link these trends to Dominican development. The economic, social and political effects of this development since the formation of the export processing zones will then be analyzed closely. It is concluded that while the benefits of economic growth were positive between 1990 and 2000, the strains caused by the developmental choices of the nation have negatively affected the population and alternatives should be explored.
Recommended Citation
Alvarez Thomas, Myriam Isabel, "The Effects of Western Hemisphere Economic Integration on the Economic, Political, and Social Development of the Dominican Republic" (2003). Theses & ETDs. 3199.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/3199
Rights
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