Robert J. Holmer

In: UA Magazine 5 - Methodologies for UA research, policy development, planning and implementation

Much of the developing countries' rapidly growing population, forms part of the economy that lies outside the regulatory framework of governments, in what is known as the informal sector. Although the definitions vary according to the country context, it is generally agreed that the informal sector, whether rural or urban, comprises small and micro-enterprises producing and distributing basic goods and services in unregulated, but competitive markets. Micro-enterprises provide income and employment for significant proportions of workers in rural and urban areas.