Dissertation Guide on HIV/AIDS Micro-Insurance in Africa
Subject – International Development
Topic – Success and Failure of HIV/AIDS Micro-insurance in sub-Saharan Africa
Abstract: The purpose of this dissertation is to outline the advantages and disadvantages of micro-insurance for HIV/AIDS afflicted societies in sub-Saharan and Southeast Africa. The introduction of micro-insurance products for the mitigation of HIV/AIDS and for the assistance of the infected and their families is a flexible and complex method for development. However, it does not preclude any long-term solution to the HIV/AIDS problem in Africa and seems incapable to deal with the cultural and psychological implications of the disease.
Introduction: Give some background on microfinance, on changing shifts in international development and the latest trends from 1960s and 1970s onwards such as the development of structural adjustment loans, financial aid packages and the microfinance/micro-insurance. Then introduce the problems related with AIDS in the region chosen. In the introduction the student must include the rationale behind the choice of topic, its relevance and the innovation this research is going to bring. Also, the structure of the dissertation must be mentioned.
Research Question: What are the advantages/disadvantages of micro- insurance in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa? Is micro-insurance detrimental to fighting AIDS, or is it a feasible strategy for its eradication?
Aims and Objectives: The purpose of this dissertation will be to assess the efficiency of micro-insurance for HIV/AIDS both in the short-term and in the long-term, concentrating on the region of sub-Saharan and Southeast Africa.
Literature Review: Introduce three, possibly four definitions of micro-finance and micro-insurance. Compare them and choose the one that fits the research aims of the paper. Stick to this definition. Critically assess the main literature on the subject, highlighting gaps of research and how the dissertation will fill these gaps. Also review papers and reports from UN Development Programme, local and international non-governmental organizations
Methodology – Combination of quantitative and qualitative techniques; qualitative – analysis of existing literature, books, journals, websites. Quantitative – analysis of statistics, empirical approach; also – interviews with people, who work for anti-AIDS organizations in Africa or locally, interview experts, but also, if possible, interview patients with AIDS from the countries in question. Methods of research can vary based on where the student is located, and what access to resources/funds they have. Also, time limit is important.
Ethical Considerations – for this topic, ethical considerations are crucial. Make sure that you comply with research standards of anonymity and confidentiality. Also, the topic is sensitive if you decide to conduct interviews/questionnaires with HIV/AIDS patients. Bear this in mind.
Data Presentation/Analysis – based on findings.
Conclusions – summarize findings, identify topics for further research, also, what were the academic benefits for the researcher in terms of new skills and knowledge?
Appendix I – Recommended readings by topic
African Microfinance Network (AFMIN) and Hivos (2005) “HIV/AIDS and Micro-insurance in the Microfinance Sector in Africa”, report on a Workshop. Adis Ababa 25-27 April, 2007, edited by Carolijn Gommans and Célestin Gatera
Available at: http://www.microfinancegateway.org/files/27178_file_Report_ws_MicroInsurance_Africa_Apr2005.pdf
Viewed 25.04.09
Aliber, M. (2001) “South African Microinsurance Case-Study”, University of the Western Cape, International Labour Organization(ILO). Working paper 33
Available at: http://www.ilo.org/public/english/employment/finance/download/wp33.pdf
Viewed 21.04.09
Correa C. (2006). “Implications of Bilateral Agreements on Access to Medicines”. WHO Bulletin 2006: 1:6
Available at: www.globalizationandhealth.com/content/pdf/1744-8603-1-6.pdf
Viewed: 26.04.09
Donahue, J., Kabbucho, K., and Osinde, S. (2001) “HIV/AIDS -Responding To A Silent Economic Crisis Among Microfinance Clients In Kenya and Uganda”, Microsave-Market-led solutions for financial services
Available at: http://www.microsave.org/MLS%20VCD/ST%20HIVAIDS%20Crisis.pdf
Viewed 22.04.09
Magill, J. “Rural Finance in the Age of HIV/AIDS-HIV/AIDS and Rural Microfinance—A Matter of Survival”Development Alternatives, Inc.
Available at: http://www.basis.wisc.edu/live/rfc/cs_07b.pdf
Viewed: 25.04.09
Morduch, J. (2004) “Micro-insurance: the next revolution?” New York University Forthcoming in What Have We Learned About Poverty?edited by Abhijit Banerjee, Roland Benabou, and Dilip Mookherjee, Oxford University Press
Available at: http://www.nyu.edu/projects/morduch/documents/insurance/Micro-insurance_the_Next_Revolution.pdf
Viewed 25.04.09
Ollila, E. (2005). “Global Health Priorities – Priorities of the Wealthy?”/ Globalization and Health 2005 1:6.
Available at: www.who.int/bulletin/volumes/84/5/399.pdf
Viewed: 27.04.09
Sachs, J.(2005). The End of Poverty. Penguin Books Ltd. Ch. 1,2,3
Sen, A.(1999) Development as Freedom.OxfordUniversity Press. p.87-111
UNAIDS, (2008). The Global HIV Challenge: Assessing Progress, Identifying Obstacles, Renewing Commitment. Ch.1, Report
Available at: http://data.unaids.org/pub/GlobalReport/2008/jc1510_2008_global_report_pp11_28_en.pdf
Viewed 25.04.09
Category: Free Dissertation Topics and Ideas
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