Economist Podcasts Never-ending storeys: rebuilding Turkey
Apr 14, 2023
In this engaging discussion, Piotr Zilevski, The Economist's Turkey correspondent, shares insights on the massive reconstruction efforts after the earthquakes, highlighting the staggering $104 billion cost and political implications for President Erdogan. Kinley Salmon, Africa correspondent, reveals a surprising demographic trend as Africa's baby boom slows down, exploring changing attitudes toward family planning and the impact on future economic dynamics. Together, they offer a thought-provoking look at pressing global challenges.
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Turkey's Earthquake Reconstruction Challenge
- Turkey faces a massive, costly rebuild after the earthquakes, potentially exceeding $100 billion.
- Reconstruction will take years, straining public finances and impacting President Erdogan's reelection prospects.
Slow Reconstruction Progress
- The reconstruction is slow, with only a fraction of the rubble cleared in some cities like Antakya.
- The sheer volume of debris, comparable to ten times the rubble of post-war Warsaw, poses a significant hurdle.
Africa's Falling Birth Rate
- Contrary to popular belief, new data shows Africa's birth rate is declining faster than projected.
- This demographic transition, similar to East Asia's, could have significant economic and social implications.