Competition to attract foreign direct investment through tax incentives as a threat for the realisation of socio-economics in Africa

Abstract

The main objective of the study is to show how the use of tax incentives as means of attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is threatening the realisation of socio-economic rights in Africa. Particular attention is given on how the granting of generous tax incentives can affect the proper and adequate provision of public services and infrastructures by highly reducing government revenue. The research does not intend to analyse the impact of loss of revenue through tax incentives on each and every socio-economic right. Rather the focus is on its general impact on obligations of African states to respect, protect and fulfill socio-economic rights as derived from the major international, regional and national human rights instruments