Economic Policy and Human Rights presents a powerful critique of three decades of neoliberal economic policies, assessed from the perspective of human rights norms. In doing so, it brings together two areas of thought and action that have hitherto been separate: progressive economics concerned with promoting economic justice and human development; and human rights analysis and advocacy.Focussing on in-depth comparative case studies of the USA and Mexico and looking at issues such as public expenditure, taxation and international trade, the book shows that heterodox economic analysis benefits greatly from a deeper understanding of a human rights framework. This is something progressive economists have often been skeptical of, regarding it as too deeply entrenched in 'Western' norms, discourses and agendas. Such a categorical rejection is unwarranted. Instead, human rights norms can provide an invaluable ethical and accountability framework, challenging a narrow focus on efficiency and growth.A vital book for anyone interested in human rights and harnessing economics to create a better world.

Economic Policies and Human Rights Obligations: An Introduction - Radhika Balakrishnan & Diane Elson Essex 1. Fiscal and Monetary Policy and the Right to Work and to Just and Favourable Conditions of Work: Mexico -Sarah Gammage & Kristina Pirker 2. Human Rights Dimensions of Fiscal and Monetary Policies: United States - Radhika Balakrishnan & James Heintz 3. Human Rights and Public Expenditure in Mexico - Daniela Ramírez Camacho 4. Human Rights and Public Expenditure in USA - Nursel Aydiner-Avsar and Diane Elson 5. Taxation and Economic and Social Rights in Mexico - Lourdes Colinas & Roberto Constantino 6. Taxation and Economic and Social Rights in USA - Radhika Balakrishnan 7. Trade Policy and Human Rights: Mexico - Alberto-Serdan-Rosales and Carlos Salas 8. Trade Policy and Human Rights Obligations of the USA: the Case of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) - Nursel Aydiner-Avsar and Diane Elson 9. Regulation: the Case of Pension Reform and Human Rights in Mexico - Gabriel Lara 10. Regulation: the Case of Pension Reform and Human Rights in USA - Radhika Balakrishnan