In Pursuit of Development

In this episode, Dan Banik speaks with Cecilia Marcela Bailliet, the UN Independent Expert on Human Rights and International Solidarity and Professor at the University of Oslo’s Faculty of Law about what solidarity truly means in an era of geopolitical tension, shrinking aid budgets, and growing inward-looking politics. Cecilia argues that solidarity is far more than a political catchphrase. It is an enabling right that links human rights, peace, and development, and demands concrete action to include those who are excluded.Together they explore how solidarity can take shape locally and globally, how civil society continues to push back despite tightening restrictions, and how corporations, technology, and even artificial intelligence can either strengthen or undermine our collective responsibilities. The conversation also touches on double standards in international responses, the rise of exclusionary “nativist solidarities,” and why building a culture of peace remains essential in today’s fractured world.This wide-ranging discussion invites listeners to rethink what we owe one another and why solidarity, properly understood, might be one of the most powerful tools we have for shaping a more just and humane future. Host:Dan Banik LinkedInX: @danbanik @GlobalDevPod Subscribe:Apple Spotify YouTubehttps://in-pursuit-of-development.simplecast.com

Dean Karlan, a prominent economist and former Chief Economist at USAID, joins to discuss his groundbreaking work in evidence-driven policy. He shares insights on building an office dedicated to cost-effectiveness in a politically charged environment and the importance of transparent learning in development. Highlighting challenges in navigating bureaucratic resistance, he reflects on the recent shifts in Washington politics and their implications for global aid. Karlan emphasizes the need for diversified partnerships and the risks of over-reliance on single donors in shaping future development efforts.

As globalization gives way to fragmentation, the politics of finance and development are shifting fast. Tariffs, trade wars, and geopolitical rivalries are redrawing economic maps, while traditional sources of aid are shrinking. In this environment, low- and middle-income countries are searching for new partners and new pathways to growth—and China’s role looms large.Over the past two decades, China has financed and built roads, railways, power grids, and digital infrastructure across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. But since the pandemic, its overseas investments have evolved: fewer mega-projects, greater attention to debt risks, and a growing emphasis on clean energy, technology, and localized, value-added production.In this episode, Dan Banik speaks with Hong Bo, Professor of Financial Economics at SOAS, University of London, about the changing nature of Chinese investment and what it reveals about the future of global development finance. They discuss how sovereign risk shapes investment decisions, why small and “green” projects are replacing large ones, and how African and other developing countries can strengthen their bargaining power in negotiations. The conversation also touches on the politics of transparency, the role of private Chinese investors, and the possibilities for industrialization in a world of shrinking aid and shifting alliances. Host:Dan Banik LinkedInX: @danbanik @GlobalDevPod Subscribe:Apple Spotify YouTubehttps://in-pursuit-of-development.simplecast.com

Rachel Glennerster, President of the Center for Global Development, discusses the evolving landscape of global development. She explains how development is increasingly driven by national policies rather than just aid. Rachel highlights the importance of prioritizing evidence-based interventions and adapting to tightening budgets. She explores the role of artificial intelligence and South-South cooperation in shaping future practices. The conversation also touches on the significance of reconnecting development with the public through clear, impactful messaging.

Malawi has once again gone to the polls, reaffirming its reputation as one of Africa’s most enduring democracies. In September 2025, former president Peter Mutharika returned to power after defeating Lazarus Chakwera in a peaceful transfer of power that defied global trends of democratic decline. Despite widespread poverty, inflation, and economic stagnation, Malawians continue to place their trust in the ballot box. In this episode, Dan Banik speaks with Happy Kayuni about why democracy endures in Malawi, how civic faith survives amid hardship, and what this resilience reveals about the future of democracy in developing countries.Resources:Political Transition and Inclusive Development in Malawi: The Democratic Dividend (Open access, Edited by Dan Banik and Blessings Chinsinga)Happy Kayuni on X and LinkedIn Host:Dan Banik LinkedInX: @danbanik @GlobalDevPod Subscribe:Apple Spotify YouTubehttps://in-pursuit-of-development.simplecast.com

In this engaging discussion, Nemanja Džuverović, a Professor of Peace Studies at the University of Belgrade, shares insights on the powerful student-led protests in Serbia following a tragic train-station collapse. He reveals how grief transformed into a movement challenging corruption and democratic decay. The conversation explores Serbia's struggle with 'stabilocracy,' regional democratic trends, and the growing disillusionment with the European project among youth. Džuverović also addresses Serbia's pivot towards China and the complex landscape of political alliances.

Jorge Heine, a seasoned diplomat and former Chilean Minister of State, delves into the rise of the Global South and the importance of active non-alignment. Heine shares insights from his ambassadorial experiences in China, India, and South Africa, emphasizing how nations are redefining foreign policies amidst U.S.–China rivalry. He highlights key catalysts for this shift, including the Ukraine war and BRICS expansion, while arguing that countries like Chile are skillfully balancing ties with both superpowers. Heine envisions a confident Global South reshaping global governance and development.

In this episode of In Pursuit of Development, Dan Banik speaks with Pedro Conceição, Director of the United Nations Development Programme’s Human Development Report Office, about the enduring power and renewed urgency of the human development idea.The conversation begins with the origins of the Human Development Reports, tracing how Mahbub ul Haq and Amartya Sen transformed a moral vision into a measurable framework that challenged conventional notions of progress. Pedro reflects on how this approach—anchored in expanding people’s choices and capabilities—remains vital in today’s polarized and uncertain world, where attention is often captured by crises rather than long-term human flourishing. Dan and Pedro discuss the latest Human Development Report, A Matter of Choice: People and Possibilities in the Age of AI, which examines how artificial intelligence is reshaping economies, societies, and the very notion of human agency. They explore both the promise and the peril of AI — how it can enhance learning, health, and livelihoods, but also deepen inequalities if access, bias, and control are left unchecked. The episode also touches on widening global inequalities, energy poverty in Africa, and the foundational investments (in electricity, connectivity, and education) required to ensure that AI serves as a tool for empowerment rather than exclusion.Resources:UNDP Human Development ReportsPedro Conceição on LinkedIn and X  Host:Dan Banik LinkedInX: @danbanik @GlobalDevPod Subscribe:Apple Spotify YouTubehttps://in-pursuit-of-development.simplecast.com

Joseph Asunka, CEO of Afrobarometer, shares insights into the evolving landscape of African citizen engagement. He discusses the rising pessimism among citizens, particularly concerning unemployment and economic conditions. Asunka highlights the gap between youthful priorities and older leadership, noting a shift towards online activism over traditional party politics. He emphasizes the significance of credible data in fostering accountability and democratic resilience, while also reflecting on the challenges faced by youth in mobilizing their political power.

Naomi Hossain, a Global Research Professor at SOAS, delves into Bangladesh's remarkable rise from a 'basket case' to a development leader. She discusses how traumatic events, like the 1974 famine, shaped robust policies prioritizing food security and disaster preparedness. The conversation highlights significant strides in health, poverty reduction, and women's workforce participation. Hossain also critiques the role of elite consensus and warns of looming challenges posed by inequality and political fragility, offering a nuanced view of progress and ongoing struggles.