Social exclusion

Social exclusion describes a situation where certain groups within a society are systematically disadvantaged because they are discriminated against. Such groups are often differentiated by race, ethnicity, age or gender. Social exclusion exists to some degree in all societies, and can occur across a number of dimensions: economic, social, political and cultural. These different forms of disadvantage form a self-reinforcing cycle.

Exclusion can be official or unofficial and can take place in a number of arenas, from the legal, health and education systems to the household and community. Processes of exclusion can be highly visible and deliberate, but can also be hidden and unintentional. In developing countries, exclusion is often a product of historical developments, including colonialism. 

As a concept, social exclusion helps us to focus on groups of people rather than individuals, which leads us to look at societies for the causes and solutions. One of the strengths of the concept of social exclusion is that is focuses attention on agency – who is being excluded and who is actively excluding others. It also draws our attention to the organisational or institutional structures that serve to include or exclude. This places an emphasis on process, and helps us to focus on issues of power.

This topic guide was prepared by Sally Neville. The GSDRC appreciates the contributions of Professor Frances Stewart (Queen Elizabeth House, University of Oxford) and Jo Beall (The London School of Economics). Comments, questions or documents for consideration should be sent to Seema Khan.

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