From Political to Economic Awakening in the Arab World: The Path of Economic Integration

The World Bank Regional Vice-Presidency for Middle East & North Africa (MENA)

and The European Centre for International Political Economy (ECIPE)

Invite you to a book launch and discussion event: From Political to Economic Awakening in the Arab World: The Path of Economic Integration

 

Moderator:

Robin Emmott, Senior Correspondent – Reuters

Presenters:

Jean-Pierre Chauffour, Lead Economist & Trade Coordinator, MENA, World Bank

Bernard Funck, Manager, Poverty Reduction & Economic Management, MENA, World Bank

Discussants:

Ignacio Garcia Bercero, Director, DG Trade, European Commission

Fredrik Erixon, Director, ECIPE

More than 2 years into the Arab Awakening, could the European Union help foster an economic spring in the Arab world? And if yes, how? The popular grievances that have fueled the Arab world since 2010 demonstrate that past development paradigms have failed to achieve the inclusive and sustainable growth expected by Arab populations. Countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region have failed to develop a strong private sector that is linked with global markets, survives without state assistance, and generates productive employment for young people. One key symptom of this failure is that, with the exception of the petroleum sector, MENA remains the least trade-integrated region in the world. Increased trade and FDI is therefore a key means by which Arab countries can achieve a path of sustainable growth that reduces youth unemployment. 

Hard copies of the report will be provided.

Also available online at here. 

RSVP: marvioti@worldbank.org