Do We Know What Inclusive Growth Really Means?
Most definitions do not fully capture the concept of inclusive growth. To be useful, such a definition must include several key elements.
The Post-2015 Millennium Development Goals Should Seek a World Free of Poverty
The MDGs represent the global vision of reducing poverty in its various dimensions. We need continued attention to all the goals, since we can hardly declare “mission accomplished” in any of the dimensions of poverty they seek to address.
Social Protection Can Achieve Both Inclusiveness and Economic Growth
Not only does social protection promote economic growth; in fact, growth cannot be sustained without strong social protection.
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.
The BRICS Bank — An Idea Whose Time Has Come
A new institution, offering greater development assistance, is badly needed.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.