University of Pittsburgh Press
Comparing Socialist Approaches
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Comparing Socialist Approaches

Economics and Social Security in Cuba, China, and Vietnam

By Carmelo Mesa-Lago
Mesa-Lago, globally acknowledged for his groundbreaking studies on pension systems and their reforms, one of the most experienced and most productive scholars in social policy, is still pursuing new ideas and original research. His book provides novel insights by taking a comparative look at two socialist socioeconomic models—an extraordinary, innovative, and fruitful approach.
Ülrich Becker, director, Max-Planck-Institut für Sozialrecht und Sozialpolitik
Hardcover $65.00

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Carmelo Mesa-Lago looks at the two main socialist models across these countries to compare central planning and socialist markets. Under the Cuban central plan, large state enterprises have been unable to generate economic growth, even with mild structural market reforms and a small controlled private sector. In the Sino-Vietnamese model of a socialist marketplace, dynamic private enterprises of all sizes, together with large state enterprises, operate under a decentralized plan with state regulation and control. This has allowed for accelerated growth and social improvement. The two models are contrasted on five major economic policies: ownership of the means of production, agrarian reform, industrialization processes, employment, and currency and exchange rate unification. Mesa-Lago argues that the socialist market model has a better performance than the central plan across economic and social indicators. He then recommends policies to improve social protection in the three countries.

More Praise

This book is a fascinating read for academics and policy makers interested in two different socialist pension systems, not in abstract but including many policy issues and the complications that inevitably arise as a design evolves over the years.

Nicholas Barr, London School of Economics

Carmelo Mesa-Lago is a world-renowned social security researcher. His new book is very worth reading. It is also the only such academic book I have seen so far. It is of great academic value and methodological innovation.

Bigwen Zheng, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences

This meticulously researched book provides invaluable insights into the comparative performance of different socialist models and their social security systems. Its findings are pertinent to both developing and developed nations looking to enhance their social welfare structures. Engaging, informative, and stimulating. An essential reference for anyone intrigued by diverse social welfare paradigms.

Hihn T. Dinh, senior research fellow, Policy Center for the New South

Undoubtedly, the most comprehensive comparative analysis of the reforms and their economic-social impacts in Cuba, China, and Vietnam. It spans several decades and encompasses an incredible multiplicity of statistical indicators, bibliographic references, and quotes; indispensable for all who want to understand the similarities and differences between these socialist economies. The sections on Cuba are remarkable.

Pavel Vidal, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Cali

Carmelo Mesa-Lago, the Grand Old Man of Cuban economy, has again produced superb, innovative research. This pioneering book compares the economic-social policies and performances of three socialist economies under communist-party guidance. One wishes that Raúl Castro had read this book twenty years ago when he expressed so much admiration for the Sino-Vietnamese economic model.

Vegard Bye, affiliate researcher, Chr. Michelsen Institute

Written in Mesa-Lago’s meticulous and engaging style, his new book is a reference for anyone interested in comparative public policy. I am not aware of any other work that, despite the challenges posed by data and asymmetric information, tackles the analysis of social security systems in such a sound manner.

Henry Colina Hernández , coordinator, United Nations Development Program

This book has been missing for a long time and is a must for anyone concerned with the development of social security.

Barbara Darimont, IU International University of Applied Sciences

Fascinating contribution for those interested in development, international relations, and country comparisons on socioeconomic topics, particularly social security. A provocative invitation to continue and improve this line of analysis.

Enrique Dussel Peters, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México

Mesa-Lago’s lifetime work on Cuba and Latin America places him in a privileged position to undertake this assessment.

Armando Barrientos, professor emeritus, University of Manchester

360 Pages, 6 x 9 in.

April, 2025

isbn : 9780822948476

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about the author

Carmelo Mesa-Lago

Carmelo Mesa-Lago is distinguished service professor emeritus of economics and Latin American studies at the University of Pittsburgh. He has published about 90 books in seven languages in 39 countries and received many awards, including the ILO International Prize on Decent Work (shared with Nelson Mandela) for his work on social protection in the world.

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Carmelo Mesa-Lago