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The development problems of small island states : Zanzibar in its regional setting

This is a study of the development problems of a particular category of developing countries, i.e., the developing small island state (SIS). The thesis seeks to establish their position within development theory emphasising the constraints that they confront in their development efforts. The main argument presented is that although small size is a development constraint, its effects are exacerbated by several other factors that are largely the result of not only size but also having a peripheral location and role within the global economy. A review and discussion of the literature relating to small states and SIS development is made focusing on the period following decolonisation when a plethora of Lilliputian states emerged. Their viability was questioned while more recently the emphasis has shifted to their vulnerability and to the need for sustainable development. Methodologically, the study identifies a range of problems commonly affecting SIS while through the use of statistical techniques a typology of SIS is identified. From this regional example, Zanzibar, the Comoros, the Maldives Seychelles and Mauritius are selected and an in depth comparative analysis is made. Through an historical approach, their post independence development experiences are analysed from which some important lessons are drawn. Focusing subsequently on Zanzibar, an empirical investigation is made focusing on its recent development experiences. The background to independence and the Revolution (1964) is analysed, identifying the socio-economic and political factors which have influenced its development before and after 1964. Three distinct phases are identified in post-Revolution Zanzibar. Though distinct from one another in their respective development strategies, they retain one common denominator, i.e. Zanzibar remains a dependent and vulnerable SIS.

Identiferoai:union.ndltd.org:bl.uk/oai:ethos.bl.uk:336716
Date January 1993
CreatorsJambiya, George Leszek Kobelski
PublisherUniversity of Glasgow
Source SetsEthos UK
Detected LanguageEnglish
TypeElectronic Thesis or Dissertation
Sourcehttp://theses.gla.ac.uk/3490/

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