VoxDev Development Economics

Join Rory Stewart, a former UK Secretary of State for International Development and Yale senior fellow, Stefan Dercon, an Oxford professor and former chief economist, and Trudi Makhaya, ex-advisor to the South African President, as they explore the decline of evidence-based policymaking. They discuss the dangers of populism overshadowing facts, USAID's cutbacks, and the need for adaptability in policy amidst political pressures. Their insights highlight the urgency for a narrative that prioritizes human dignity in global development.

Eeshani Kandpal, a researcher at the Center for Global Development, dives deep into the economic implications of cash transfer programs. She sheds light on whether these programs increase local prices alongside incomes. The conversation includes insights on how such transfers impact communities that don’t receive them and discusses critical factors influencing price changes, like market conditions. Eeshani also touches on lessons learned from case studies during COVID-19, emphasizing innovative strategies to enhance nutritional outcomes amidst challenges.

Eyal Frank, a Professor at the University of Chicago, dives into the intricate relationship between economics and conservation. He explores how economic growth often diminishes ecosystems. Eyal highlights the severe impact of an invasive fungus on bat populations and its ripple effects on agriculture and public health. He also discusses the troubling decline of India's vultures due to toxic medications, resulting in significant human health crises. Lastly, he sheds light on the consequences of desert locust swarms, affecting food security and children’s health.

The Reducing Conflict and Improving Performance in the Economy (ReCIPE) programme, established in April 2024, aims to provide a better understanding of the links between conflict, economic growth, and public policies. One of its many themes is on what happens post-conflict: peacemaking, peacebuilding, and reconstruction. Salma Mousa and Lisa Hultman, theme leaders, talk to Tim Phillips about why peacebuilding must always be both bottom-up and top-down if it is going to work. Read the full show notes on VoxDev: https://voxdev.org/topic/institutions-political-economy/peacemaking-peacebuilding-and-post-war-reconstruction

Join experts Jing Cai from the University of Maryland, Muhammad Meki from the University of Oxford, and Simon Quinn from Imperial College as they dive into the multifaceted world of microfinance. They discuss its historical roots and evolving practices, highlighting successes and challenges in evaluation. The conversation reveals intriguing insights into asset-based microfinance and its transformative potential for underserved communities. They also address the balance between profit and purpose, emphasizing the need for innovative, tailored financial solutions.

Tim Dobermann, Research Director at the International Growth Centre, and Francesco Caselli, Professor at the London School of Economics, discuss the changing landscape of economic development. They explore unorthodox policies needed to adapt to new global challenges, from Brexit to climate change. The impact of COVID-19 on trade and the importance of digital technologies are highlighted. They also assess AI's role in job creation and the fiscal policies nations must adopt to encourage growth while managing crises.

Lant Pritchett, a renowned development economist from the London School of Economics, joins Tim Phillips to challenge the reliance on rigorous evidence in policy-making. They discuss the limitations of RCTs and the importance of local context in understanding policy impacts, using Indonesia as an example. Pritchett calls for a return to holistic strategies over mere poverty alleviation, while also examining how emerging economies like India and China are reshaping development debates. The conversation highlights the critical balance between economic growth and sustainable development.

Lin Tian, an expert affiliated with INSEAD, discusses the economic impact of internet connectivity on developing countries. She explores the surge of internet access, particularly in rural areas, and the disparities it creates. The conversation highlights how internet connectivity enhances productivity, education, and employment opportunities. Tian also shares insights on how platforms like Alibaba empower small businesses by connecting them to global markets. Additionally, she discusses the transformative impact of AI on these economies and the importance of strategic government policies.

Chris Woodruff, a University of Oxford professor and non-executive director at British International Investment, shares insights on the intersection of research and investment. He highlights the challenges BII faces in promoting sustainable growth in emerging markets. The discussion dives into evidence-based strategies for businesses, using randomized control trials to address hurdles faced by micro and large enterprises. Woodruff also reevaluates the significance of external validity in investment decisions, advocating for a thorough understanding of general equilibrium effects to enhance DFI impact.

Amit Khandelwal, a Yale economics expert, Isabela Manelici from the London School of Economics, and Arvind Subramanian, former chief economic advisor to India, dive into the challenges facing emerging economies in global trade. They discuss how protectionism affects trade dynamics and the need for smart strategies. The role of multinationals is examined, highlighting their dual impact on local economies. The conversation also covers industrial policy's effectiveness and the varied responses of nations like India and Vietnam to changing global dynamics and climate challenges.