The Intelligence from The Economist Country of the year: The Economist picks
Dec 20, 2024
Lena Shipper, the Africa editor for The Economist and a former South Asia bureau chief, discusses the significant political changes in recent months. She highlights the heated debate over the Country of the Year nominees, comparing Bangladesh's revolutionary spirit with Syria's ongoing turmoil. The optimism in Bangladesh emerges through its recent student uprisings, signaling hope for a return to democracy. Additionally, she shares a heartfelt rescue initiative where abandoned pets are transported to new homes, emphasizing the challenges of animal welfare.
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Country of the Year Award
- The Economist recognizes countries that have shown the most improvement throughout the year.
- This includes governance, economic performance, and living standards.
Past Winners and Current Contenders
- Previous winners include Uzbekistan, Ukraine, and Greece.
- This year's contenders are Poland, South Africa, Bangladesh, and Syria, ultimately narrowed down to Bangladesh and Syria.
Bangladesh's Transformation
- Leina Shipper describes arriving in Dhaka after student-led protests ousted Sheikh Hasina's authoritarian regime.
- She notes a stark contrast between the previous fear and the newfound freedom of expression.