This paper explores the relationships between openness, poverty and inequality in Africa. The analysis begins with a review of social development on the continent since 1980, followed by a discussion of openness and a lengthy exploration of the patterns of trade and finance that link Africa to the rest of the world. The macroeconomic policy framework that guided African policymaking over the last three decades is the lens through which poverty and inequality are further examined. The paper highlights the major factors underpinning openness and social development, and concludes with policy.
Social progress in Africa in the 1990s -- Recent patterns of openness, inequality and poverty in Africa -- Conclusions.

33 p. : graphs, tables

Annexes (p. 32-33): 1a. Shares of export values by region, 1965-2001 -- 1b. Export share of total exports of 3 principal commodities in SSA countries.
Includes bibliographical references (p. 28-31).