Social Protection in a Context of HIV/AIDS: A Closer Look at South Africa

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Periodical article

Title:	Social Protection in a Context of HIV/AIDS: A Closer Look at South Africa
Author:	Veenstra, Nina
Year:	2006
Periodical:	Social Dynamics
Volume:	32
Issue:	2
Pages:	111-135
Language:	English
Geographic term:	South Africa
Subjects:	social security poverty AIDS Health and Nutrition Politics and Government
External link:	https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/02533950608628729
Abstract:	South Africa is unusual in that it is experiencing high levels of AIDS morbidity and mortality, but is also able to afford a relatively developed system of social assistance. However, HIV/AIDS is affecting poverty in some unique ways and compounding other challenges, such as unemployment. Its nature is such that it demands immediate action, balanced with a focus on long-term development. This is requiring a conceptual shift from 'social security' to 'social protection', since social assistance is not managing to address all dimensions of poverty and is also creating perverse incentives for people not to maximize their health. In South Africa, household studies comprise the most useful evidence to explore the particular challenges posed by HIV/AIDS. They indicate a need to review policies in all the social sectors and to focus on the issue of human capital. Bibliogr., notes, ref., sum. [Journal abstract]