Rethinking the Transformative Role of Social Policy

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ID: 314418
2026
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Abstract
Abstract Zimbabwe, like other countries in the Global South, has for years been burdened by the challenges of persistent poverty and inequality. In response to these challenges, it has developed progressive social policies aimed at protecting the poor and reducing vulnerabilities. In 2020 the situation became complicated due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which posed an unprecedented threat to humanity. COVID-19 disrupted everyday life and livelihoods with indications that it would take time for the situation to normalize. Zimbabwe initially had a few confirmed COVID-19 positive cases and fatalities, but upward trajectories were witnessed toward the end of 2020 and the beginning of 2021, with the situation worsening daily. Despite having a challenging socioeconomic and political environment, the country came up with measures to curb the spread of COVID-19, but what was clear was that there existed “a crisis within a crisis.” This chapter critically analyzes the country’s response to COVID-19, focusing on the critical role of social policy. It shows that the unprecedented situation in which the country finds itself provides an opportunity to rediscover the transformational role that social policy can play in providing welfare and social protection. In a background where social policymaking has been grounded in neoliberal discourses that have for years minimized expenditure on social spending, the pandemic—despite its catastrophic impact—has brought to the fore the need to rethink the country’s social policy architecture. The chapter proffers a critical analysis of the country’s welfare and social protection regime and argues for a rethink of social policy.
Reference Key
openalex_W7161947664 Use this key to autocite in the manuscript while using SciMatic Manuscript Manager or Thesis Manager
Authors Clement Chipenda, Tom Tom
Journal Oxford University Press eBooks
Year 2026
DOI
10.1093/oxfordhb/9780197761465.013.0023
URL
https://doi.org/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780197761465.013.0023
Keywords Keywords not found

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