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Making market systems work? For the poor?
01.12.2006
In contrast to recent emphasis on simply creating an enabling environment, the ‘Making markets work for the poor’ approach emphasizes that specifically targeted interventions are needed to make markets work for the poor. This article analyses the concepts underlying the M4P approach. While sympathizing with the approach as such, it argues that it needs a clearer perspective on market failure and on poverty, as well as a sound conceptual understanding of the relationship between market, hierarchy and network. It suggests that M4P should not spend an exaggerated effort on research but rather go for participatory, pragmatic, quick-win oriented action research.