The Arab Countries and the Problem of Sustainable Development Professor Hassan Bashir Mohamed Nour

03:09 AM August, 09 2024

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The Arab Countries and the Problem of Sustainable Development
Professor Hassan Bashir Mohamed Nour - Cairo

For decades, Arab countries have been making continuous efforts to achieve economic development. However, despite these efforts, the results often fall short of expectations. What hinders the achievement of sustainable development in the Arab world؟ And how can these challenges be overcome؟

It is crucial to understand that economic development is not just about growth figures on paper. It is a comprehensive process aimed at improving the efficiency of resource management, maintaining resources, enhancing the quality of life for citizens, expanding employment opportunities, and achieving social justice. However, when looking at the economic indicators in many Arab countries, we find that economic growth does not always translate into improved living standards for citizens and often does not align with the available human and natural resources.

Statistics indicate that poverty and unemployment rates remain high in many Arab countries, reflecting imbalances in distribution policies and unequal opportunities. This situation raises questions about the effectiveness of the economic policies in place and their suitability to the social and economic realities of these countries.

Additionally, many Arab countries suffer from structural problems in their economies, such as an excessive reliance on natural resources, particularly oil and gas. This dependence makes these countries vulnerable to global market fluctuations and presents significant challenges in the event of any decline in the prices of these resources. Moreover, economic diversification in most Arab countries remains weak, hindering the creation of new jobs and the achievement of sustainable development. Factors such as political instability and chronic conflicts in the region also pose a significant threat to sustainable development and the well-being of future generations, in addition to depleting material and human resources and driving many young talents to emigrate.

On the other hand, governance issues and corruption play a major role in obstructing development efforts. Without effective and transparent resource management, development plans become mere theoretical papers that fail to achieve their objectives in reality. Therefore, Arab countries must strengthen governance systems and improve transparency and accountability to ensure the proper allocation of resources. Strengthening collaboration between universities and research centers can also be essential in developing curricula, teaching methods, and scientific research, and in upgrading the quality of educational and research institutions.

Achieving sustainable economic development requires Arab countries to adopt integrated economic policies that take into account all social and economic aspects. This necessitates deep structural reforms, including improving the quality of education, fostering innovation, developing infrastructure, and supporting the private sector. It also involves developing joint and effective mechanisms to deal with chronic crises and resolve conflicts that plague the region.

In conclusion, real economic development cannot be achieved without involving society in decision-making, ensuring social justice, allowing freedoms, and fostering critical appreciation. By adopting a comprehensive, human-centered approach, Arab رب countries can achieve sustainable development and ensure a better future for their coming generations.

Arabic Forum