NYT: World Hunger, the Problem Behind - A recent rise in crop prices due to draught is an important reminder at how far we are from solving world hunger. One of the biggest challenges the world has faced in its fight against poverty is that agricultural productivity is hardest to transfer from country to country, often falling considerably short of other initiatives despite being the most important factor in developing a nation. (Tyler Cowen)
AP: Africa villages become battleground in academic debate over how best to ease Africa’s woes - In 2000, 14 Millennium Villages were set up in Africa with the goal of pulling the region out of poverty with assistance in the form of fertilizer, improved seed, irrigation systems, roads, school meals and health clinics. With the right help, the UN believes villagers can be pulled from the trap of poverty forever. Although the villages are thriving, as to whether it will be able to sustain itself without aid, is the question many are asking. (AP)
WSJ: World Bank Report: Less Complex Regulation is Best for Developing Nations - According to a study from the World Bank, keeping policies simple and transparent is best for developing nations’ success. When operating with too much complexity, the report suggests, you run the risk of reducing accountability and significantly strain resources, quelling new opportunities for growth. (Victoria McGrane)
Business Week: What the world wants from UN goals. - With the UN General Assembly right around the corner, the Millennium Development Goals are at the forefront of discussion. While the world may be making vital progress in meeting those goals, it may be time to ask the world what is truly important to them. (Charles Kenny)
