What we learned from COVID-19
Development partners adopted a “get it done” attitude in response to Covid-19. Countries and philanthropies mobilised USD 126 billion, with major vaccine support going to the least developed countries and Africa. But a new OECD report shows that these efforts didn’t reach all their goals. What lessons should partners draw from this crisis to improve preparedness for the next one? Continue reading What we learned from COVID-19
A new start for Africa’s Special Economic Zones?
Can Special Economic Zones deliver on their promise of structural transformation for Africa? A new study shows that while they have not always lived up to expectations, they are evolving — and could become powerful tools for inclusive growth on the continent. Continue reading A new start for Africa’s Special Economic Zones?
Investing in frontier markets: What DFIs need to know
Frontier economies are hard to invest in but hold big potential. With the right approach, DFIs can unlock both growth and profits in these markets. Here are six lessons for policy makers. Continue reading Investing in frontier markets: What DFIs need to know
Women in Ukraine’s Reconstruction: Policy Priorities after URC2025
This July, the fourth Ukraine Recovery Conference highlighted the importance of empowering women to lead Ukraine’s reconstruction. But translating this into real-world achievements requires investment and political will. Here are three priorities for development partners. Continue reading Women in Ukraine’s Reconstruction: Policy Priorities after URC2025
How catalytic technical assistance can help unlock development finance
Catalytic technical assistance can improve the underlying market conditions for private investment in sustainable development. Continue reading How catalytic technical assistance can help unlock development finance
The Third UN Ocean Conference: Reflections and the road ahead
The Third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC-3) made a clear case for putting the ocean at the centre of the sustainable development agenda. While this should be celebrated, much work remains to translate UNOC-3’s achievements into real accomplishments. Continue reading The Third UN Ocean Conference: Reflections and the road ahead
From Kenya’s ‘Gen Z protests’ to the world: Youth as a global constituency
Around the world, young people are turning to protest as electoral politics fails to address their grievances. So what do today’s young people want- and are policy makers prepared to respond? Continue reading From Kenya’s ‘Gen Z protests’ to the world: Youth as a global constituency
Beyond hard currency: A new approach for development finance
Development finance providers and policy makers must play a central role in expanding local currency financing and ensuring that the risks of currency volatility are not borne exclusively by those least able to manage them. Here are some short and long-term measures that can help. Continue reading Beyond hard currency: A new approach for development finance
What’s holding back Africa’s digital trade revolution?
Digital trade offers major benefits for Africa. But a lack of comprehensive frameworks is preventing Africa from reaching its e-commerce potential. Here’s what Africa’s policy makers should prioritise. Continue reading What’s holding back Africa’s digital trade revolution?
Urbanisation vs. tradition: The paradox of female labour force participation in South Asia
Urbanisation has historically led more women to enter the workforce, but this has not been the case in South Asia. Could a focus on social norms explain why? Continue reading Urbanisation vs. tradition: The paradox of female labour force participation in South Asia