Comparing cases in Sri Lanka and India, this study looks at the negative social implications of privatizing state-run industries. The book praises the significant increases
in efficiency brought about by privatization around the globe, but warns that in poor countries many workers are forced into impoverishment, causing their leaders to question the
wisdom of continuing with such efforts. Requiring private companies to add social initiatives is one solution, and these case studies show how joint initiatives between business
and government have succeeded in restructuring the labor force, increasing transparency, and providing a social safety net.