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Taxation and State Building in Developing Countries

Allan James

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Unlocking Economic Growth and Sustainable Development

In the tapestry of economic development, taxation plays a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of developing countries. Taxation and State Building in Developing Countries is an incisive examination of this multifaceted relationship, offering a comprehensive analysis of the challenges and opportunities that taxation presents.

Taxation: A Catalyst for State Building

At its core, taxation is an indispensable tool for state building in developing countries. It provides governments with the financial resources necessary to:

Taxation and State-Building in Developing Countries: Capacity and Consent

by Deborah Brautigam

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3178 KB
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Print length	:	308 pages
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Establish and maintain essential services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Implement social welfare programs, reducing poverty and inequality.
Foster economic stability and growth by funding public investments and stimulating private sector activity.

By enhancing the state's capacity to provide for its citizens, taxation lays the groundwork for sustainable development and improved quality of life.

Challenges and Opportunities

However, the path to effective taxation in developing countries is not without its complexities. This book explores the challenges that policymakers often face, including:

Low tax revenue: Developing countries often struggle to generate sufficient tax revenue due to a combination of factors such as a large informal economy, limited tax administration capacity, and tax evasion.
Tax inequity: Tax systems can sometimes be regressive, disproportionately burdening the poor while exempting the wealthy.
Political resistance: Tax increases can face significant political opposition, especially when they are perceived as unfair or excessive.

Despite these challenges, the authors also highlight the opportunities that taxation presents. By addressing these issues through well-designed tax policies and reforms, governments can unlock the full potential of taxation as an engine of economic growth and social progress.

Case Studies and Best Practices

Taxation and State Building in Developing Countries is not merely a theoretical treatise. It draws upon a wealth of case studies from around the world to illustrate the practical application of tax policies and their impact on state building and economic development.

These case studies provide valuable insights into how countries have successfully overcome challenges and harnessed the transformative power of taxation. They offer lessons and best practices that can be adapted to the specific contexts of developing countries.

Key Themes Explored

Throughout the book, the authors delve into a range of key themes, including:

The role of taxation in financing public services and infrastructure.
The impact of tax policies on economic growth and inequality.
The challenges of tax administration and tax evasion.
The role of international cooperation and taxation.
The future of taxation in developing countries.

: A Roadmap for the Future

Taxation and State Building in Developing Countries concludes with a forward-looking chapter that outlines a roadmap for the future of taxation in developing countries. The authors call for a renewed commitment to tax justice, increased investment in tax administration, and the adoption of innovative tax policies that promote economic growth and sustainable development.

This book is an essential read for policymakers, academics, development practitioners, and anyone interested in understanding the complex and vital role of taxation in the economic transformation of developing countries. By shedding light on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, Taxation and State Building in Developing Countries provides a valuable resource for shaping the future of taxation and unlocking the full potential of these emerging economies.

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Taxation and State-Building in Developing Countries: Capacity and Consent

by Deborah Brautigam

4.7 out of 5