Milanovic’s Elephant: A Tale of Two Worlds
We must address the structural causes of inequalities, which go beyond globalization in both the developed and the developing world.
ADB’s Challenge: Moving from 3 Ss to 3 Cs
Recently, someone from one of our developing member countries commented that ADB is too small, slow and self-centered. This assessment might sound harsh, but the numbers speak for themselves.
Looking at India Through Piketty’s Eyes
Thomas Piketty, a young French economist, has redefined the relationship between capital and inequalities in his book Capital in the Twenty-First Century.
Eradicating Absolute Poverty by 2030 - Are We Aiming Too Low?
The Post-2015 development agenda is leaning toward a goal of eradicating absolute poverty by 2030. The World Bank’s recently approved corporate strategy has the same goal. I believe, however, that this target is absolutely meaningless for our region, Asia and the Pacific.
Bridging the “Identity Divide”: A Quiet Revolution in India
I do not have a birth certificate. Even though I was born in the capital city of the biggest province in India, my birth was never registered. Luckily, I went to school where they recorded my date of birth and my high school certificate gave me an identity. Now, I also have a passport and I can prove who I am.
Rising Tide Raises All Boats — Or Does It?
Last week, the development economics world was shaken by an open clash between two of its most distinguished luminaries—Amartya Sen and Jagdish Bhagwati. One is a Nobel Prize winner in the field of economics, and the other is widely believed to be worthy of one.
Greying Asia: A Case of Increasing the Retirement Age?
An increase in life expectancy by 40% and decline in fertility by 50% in about half a century -- this is a great achievement!
Is Choosing an Unhealthy Lifestyle a Human Right?
The debate over a proposed ban on oversized soda drinks triggers a broader discussion on obesity and public health.
The BRICS Bank — An Idea Whose Time Has Come
A new institution, offering greater development assistance, is badly needed.
How We Can Revitalize the G20
Is the G-20 losing its way? The G-20 played a critical role in leading the world out the financial crisis in 2008-9. It was decisive, united and effective in dealing with that crisis. However, it has since lacked that that level of vitality.