The Global Productivity Slump: Common and Country-Specific Factors
Declining productivity growth is one of the most disturbing and, no doubt, important phenomena affecting the world economy. The question is what lies behind it, and whether it might be reversed.
The Experience of Mexico’s Fonden in Catastrophe Bonds, Lessons for Asia
Asian countries threatened by natural hazards can learn from Mexico’s experience with its disaster fund and risk management strategy, including multi-catastrophe bonds.
Unhappily Ever After: The Staggering Extent, Cost of Violence Against Women
The economic cost is, of course far, far from the only reason to deal with violence against women. But address it we must.
Reversing the Structural Regression in Malaysia Manufacturing
If Malaysia truly wants to reach high-income countries, it must first arrest and then reverse its structural regression, and improve the business environment to revive private investment in manufacturing.
Rethinking the Growth Diagnostics Framework for Asia
Asian developing countries need a systemic and thorough analysis of productivity drivers, with a roadmap for MDBs to coordinate development priorities and strategies.
After Earthquake, Trade Blockades Pose New Threat to Nepal's Economy
Political unrest since late September in Nepal has culminated in the obstruction of trade and transit, which will have a significant impact on post-quake GDP growth.
Creating Fiscal Space for Social Protection Programs in Asia
Countries in developing Asia can extend basic and robust levels of social protection to the “missing middle,” but whether there’s enough political to do so is another matter.
Learning from Firms in East Asian Production Networks
East Asia’s rich experience in global production networks offers valuable lessons for industrial latecomers.
Will Kaesong Shutdown Mark the End of a Unique SEZ Experiment?
Only history will tell us if the North Korean industrial complex was a missed SEZ opportunity, or the time was not yet ripe.
Tajikistan: Never Waste a Crisis – See It as Opportunity for Reform
We hope Tajikistan will carry out enough reforms to ride the world economic recovery, and be more resilient to the next crisis.