LETTER: To fix capitalism, the needs of everyone must be addressed
In Asia, rapid economic growth, job creation and emergence from poverty has been achieved in a few short decades through such an approach
It is hard to disagree with Patrick Bond’s assertion that capitalism is in need of reform. The theme of this year’s World Economic Forum on Africa, with its focus on inclusive growth and responsible leadership, was chosen specifically with this purpose in mind. For the region to enjoy a peaceful and prosperous future, Africa’s leaders must urgently address capitalism’s failings: income inequality; short-termism and corruption. More importantly still, they need to listen to the needs of everyone — all ages, incomes, ethnicities — rather than simply serving a small elite. There is no perfect model for development but in other parts of the world — most notably Asia — rapid economic growth, job creation and emergence from poverty has been achieved in a few short decades through such an approach.
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