Human Capital Policy in Southern Sudan in the Post-Second War Period
Benaiah Yongo-Bure,
Associate Professor of Social Science, Kettering University (Flint, Michigan)
PB No. 53
(April, 2007)
Abstract: The knowledge and skills that people in the labor force possess constitute their human capital. Human capital accumulation, like the accumulation of physical capital, requires investment in people. Education is the primary means of developing human capital. Education is crucial to raising productivity and self-sustaining economic growth and development. People acquire human capital mainly through education, on-the-job training, and self-teaching. A poorly educated and trained workforce cannot be highly innovative and productive. The paucity of human capital in Southern Sudan is among the greatest challenges to the territory’s rehabilitation and development. In the short-run, many technical personnel will have to be imported. Another short-run to medium-term strategy is to help those Southerners who acquired some sort of education during the war to consolidate their knowledge of core subjects before training. Simultaneous with the remedial programs should be the founding of a long-term educational system.
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Current Privatization Policy in Sudan
Osman Suliman,
Professor of Economics, Chair of the Economics Department, Millersville University of Pennsylvania
PB No. 52
(April, 2007)
Abstract: This paper examines current privatization policy in Sudan. Evidence indicates that, with few exceptions, the observed profitability of privatized firms comes at the expense of the rest of society as measured by three channels for social losses (three hypotheses): (1) increased prices as firms capitalize on market power, (2) increased inequality through accelerated self-dealing by the National Congress Party (NCP), and (3) profit incentives to restructure privatized business swamped by official corruption and bureaucracy and a punitive tax system. A prerequisite for successful privatization in Sudan is the establishment of institutions which control self-dealing and mitigate inequality.
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A New Paradigm in Developing Country NGO Financial Sustainability
Caesar Layton,
Organizational Development Specialist
PB No. 51
(June, 2006)
Abstract: This overview on NGO financial sustainability outlines a new paradigm shift in financial sustainability that is seeing developing country NGOs looking themselves increasingly in the mindset of for-profit companies, where executive staff and shareholders are not as concerned with profit and loss rather than with long-term growth and community/social impact. This brief will discuss current trends in financial sustainability methodologies used worldwide to promote operational and financial sustainability and hopefully will highlight models and best practices that will better secure a bright financial future for developing country NGOs in any developing country context.
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The Colombian Social Security System
B. Piedad Urdinola ,
Asst. Professor, Department of Statistics, Universidad Nacional de Colombia-Bogota
PB No. 50
(March, 2006)
Abstract: This brief will present the main problems confronting the Colombian social security system today. Many current problems result from past decisions, and this document will emphasize the largest change since the system’s creation, Law 100 of 1993 (Ley 100, 1993), and its implications.
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Evaluation of Mass Privatization in Bulgaria
Jeffrey Miller,
Professor of Economics at the University of Delaware
PB No. 49
(March, 2005)
Abstract: Two aspects of the mass privatization in Bulgaria are explored: (1) How well have the firms that were privatized through the program performed since privatization? Did they perform better or worse than firms that were privatized through other programs i.e. cash privatization, management – employee buyouts, etc.? (2) Did the program succeed in passing wealth to the public in the form of stock shares as the program intended?
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Trade Policy in Colombia
Jorge Tovar,
Assistant Professor at Los Andes University, Bogotá - Colombia
PB No. 48
(January, 2006)
Abstract: This policy brief explores Colombia’s current trade policy. The brief opens with a necessary explanation of the most significant economic reforms in the nation’s recent history. These reforms took place in the early 1990s and went well beyond trade policies, shaping much of today’s economic and political views in Colombia.
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Strategic Partnership In The Face Of Scarce Resources: Social And Microenterprise Development At The U.S.-Mexico Border
Bill McElnea,
Graduate Student, Gerald Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan
PB No. 47
(March, 2006)
Abstract: This brief looks at the microenterprise, social enterprise, and small business development efforts of the University of Texas at Brownsville (UTB). The institution’s recent efforts to promote entrepreneurial activity in the region serve as a valuable case study for similar efforts along the U.S.-Mexico border and other developing areas of the world. In a region facing considerable infrastructural shortages, UTB’s approach to pooling existent resources while strategically partnering with key community stakeholders has made it an example of “what works” in regions with similar development challenges.
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South African Foreign Policy: The Return of the Prodigal
Jan van Vollenhoven ,
Visiting Lecturer, Modern Diplomacy, University of Stellenbosch
PB No. 46
(March, 2006)
Abstract: This paper illustrates that South Africa’s path to prosperity, stability and a peaceful future can not be secured if that of the region and the Continent can not be secured.
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Restructuring of State Assets versus Privatisation in South Africa: What’s in a Name?
Reg Rumney,
Director, Business Map Foundation, Johannesburg
PB No. 45
(March, 2006)
Abstract: This paper examines the the difference between true privatization and the restructuring of State-owned enterprises in South Africa. It also illustrates some of the obstacles to the privatization process in this country.
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South Africa’s New Agribusiness and Land Reform Policy Regime: A Case Study of the Wine Industry
Norma Tregurtha ,
ComMark Trust
PB No. 44
(March, 2006)
Abstract: The paper begins by describing the main agricultural policy reforms that have been implemented in recent years and then goes further to document their impact on South Africa’s wine industry. The analysis is concluded with the list of recommendations as to how the industry can best be supported to amplify or ameliorate, if necessary, the business impact of these changes.
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Changes in Policy and Practice in the HIV Arena in South Africa
Erika van Vollenhoven ,
Private Practice Educational Psychologist
PB No. 43
(March, 2006)
Abstract: Southern Africa is the region worst-affected by the HIV and AIDS epidemic. Several factors are contributing to this human tragedy, including: poverty and social instability, high levels of sexually transmitted infections caused by unsafe sex, marginalized status of women; sexual violence, high mobility (particularly migrant labour), overcrowded prisons, rites of marriage, rites of death and lack of political leadership.
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The Micro Finance Sector Internationally and in South Africa
Sharda Naidoo,
Independent Consultant, Johannesburg, South Africa
PB No. 42
(December, 2005)
Abstract: This paper discusses the history of financial sector development internationally and locates the South African context in that process.
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The Importance of Narratives in South African Policy Work: How to Hear the Voices in a Participatory Democracy
Kirsten Trotter ,
Lecturer, Policy & Development Studies, University of KwaZulu-Natal
PB No. 41
(December, 2005)
Abstract: The article suggests that increased use of narratives (as a means of bringing in the “voices” of the mass public) by technocrats and policy experts may serve to close the increasing gap between the mass public and decision makers in positions of power. The intention of the article is simply to expose the particular value this technique could have for South African policy processes.
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South Africa’s Changing Position in the International Economic Environment
Dr. Meenal Shrivastava,
Senior Lecturer, Department of International Relations, Wits University, Johannesburg
PB No. 40
(December, 2005)
Abstract: This paper tries to assess South Africa's trajectory of economic development by analyzing local, regional and global contexts within which its economy operates.
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Introducing Opportunity-Based Entrepreneurship
Zoran Perunovic,
Researcher, Technical University of Denmark
PB No. 39
(December, 2005)
Abstract: This paper confronts necessity-based and opportunity-based entrepreneurial concepts in the transition of developing economies. The author constructs a research model and conducts field research (using Serbia as a case study) to explore how different personal and regional characteristics can favour either a necessity- or opportunity-based entrepreneurial environment.
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Serbia’s Competitiveness Strategy Under Macro-economic Reforms and Privatisation
Dragan Djuricin,
Professor for Strategic Management / Project Management, School of Economics, University of Belgrade
PB No. 38
(September, 2005)
Abstract: This brief highlights the importance of Serbia’s competitiveness strategy formulation and implementation. It looks at various international indexes which measure competitiveness and analyzes the factors affecting Serbia's competitiveness as well as its position vis-a-vis other economies. It then explains methodology for effective formulation and implementation of a competitiveness strategy and concludes with policy recommendations specific to Serbia.
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Trade and Investment Policy Reform in Vietnam: Integration to the World Economy and Accession to the World Trade Organization
Bao Anh Thai,
Managing Partner of Bao & Partners
PB No. 37
(September, 2005)
Abstract: This paper discusses the necessary steps for effective investment and trade policy reforms in Vietnam: improved administrative procedures, removal of restrictions, improvement of legal transparency, and the harmonization of Vietnamese law with international law and practices. It also analyzes the existing problems and challenges to the government’s efforts to date and concludes with several policy recommendations.
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Corporate Governance In Vietnam
Dinh Cung Nguyen,
Director of the Department for Macroeconomic Policy of the Central Institute for Economic Management; Scott Robertson,
Economic Researcher
PB No. 36
(August, 2005)
Abstract:
This paper highlights the central role Corporate Governance plays in the development of Vietnam's economy. Private sector development, financial market development, and state owned enterprise reform all require dramatic improvements in the state of corporate governance to overcome new growth impediments. Limitations on instruments for financing long-term projects have been identified as a major constraint to firm growth. An equities market is considered a critical next-step in reforms. This advancement, however, necessitates a corporate structure with distributed equity and ownership separated from management. To achieve this end, Vietnam will require vast improvements in the regulation, standards, and culture of corporate governance.
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The Vietnamese Microfinance Sector
Daniel Zook,
Former Chair of the Microfinance Working Group (Hanoi)
PB No. 35
(September, 2005)
Abstract: This brief provides an overview of the microfinance sector in Vietnam and describes how the recent changes in the regulatory environment and new legislation allowing for the creation of independently licensed, professionally managed, and commercially funded microfinance institutions (MFIs) in Vietnam will affect future opportunities for the development of the sector. It also outlines key constraints to further growth and policy recommendations to overcome those constraints.
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Domestic Companies in Vietnam: Challenges for Development of Vietnam’s Most Important SMEs
Markus Tausig
PB No. 34
(September, 2005)
Abstract: This paper concentrates on the challenges facing further development of Vietnam’s most important subset of SMEs: domestic private companies. First, the paper briefly justifies its focus on ownership form rather than firm size through a limited review of the role of SMEs in various countries and a looks at what so-called “pro-SME” policies in Vietnam have meant in practice. Second, it sketches out the current state of Vietnamese private companies before suggesting that the number one priority for sustained, long-term development in the domestic private sector is the evolution of predictable rule of law. Quick fixes simply do not exist and can actually prove counterproductive when they lose focus of this core long-term goal. From this perspective, pro-SME policies may be antithetical to the development of rule of law. Finally, the paper concludes with some basic recommendations on how government and donors might more constructively approach the enterprise component of Vietnam’s economic development.
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Vietnam – The Long March To Equitization
Vu Thanh Tu Anh
PB No. 33
(September, 2005)
Abstract: This policy brief provides an overview of the equitization program in Vietnam. It assesses the progress of the equitization program, analyzes the remaining problems and discusses the lessons learned.
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A Framework For Supporting Sustained Economic Development
Steven Radelet,
Senior Fellow, Center for Global Development
PB No. 32
(July, 2005)
Abstract: This paper explores, at a very broad level, some of the similarities across low-income countries that have achieved success in economic development since 1960.
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Restructuring The Banking Sector: Slovakia’s First Major Economic Reform
Michal Pinter,
Senior Economic Specialist US Embassy (Slovakia)
PB No. 31
(September, 2005)
Abstract: Between the end of the World War II and the 1989 Velvet Revolution, the then Czechoslovakian financial sector was fundamentally different from the standard economic model taught in Western universities. After the fall of communism, the establishment of a standard financial sector was seen as a basic precondition for restructuring from a “Soviet-like” economic system to an open market economy. This paper aims to describe this process, highlight its pros and cons, and present analysis to help others that may face such a transition in the future.
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Privatization in the Slovak Republic
Martin Chren,
Director of the F.A. Hayek Foundation, Bratislava
PB No. 30
(February, 2005)
Abstract: This policy brief outlines the various periods and methods of privatization in Slovakia. It discusses the successes as well as failures of the process including the high price tag and the lack of transparency. Finally, it talks of the future of the privatization process in the country.
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Pension Reform in Slovakia – Why and How?
Michal Nalevanko,
Member of the Slovakian Labor Ministry's Reform Team
PB No. 29
(July, 2005)
Abstract: This paper briefly describes the path Slovakia has chosen to revamp its old-fashioned Social Security system. It outlines the situation under which the reform process started in early 2000s and describes the new multi-pillar pension system launched in 2005.
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Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Slovakia
Jan Oravec,
President of The Entrepreneurs Association of Slovakia
PB No. 28
(July, 2005)
Abstract: This paper examines the development of the SME sector in Slovakia during the last 15 years. It illustrates the initial conditions faced by entrepreneurs in Slovakia, the factors which led to the accelerated devlopment of SMEs during the transition and the current conditions and future prospects for the sector.
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Corruption In Serbia: Causes and Remedies
Boris Begovic,
Vice President of CLDS and Professor of Economics at the School of Law, University of Belgrade, Serbia & Montenegro
PB No. 27
(February, 2005)
Abstract: This paper examines the two basic types of corruption present in Serbia: institutional and administrative corruption. Institutional corruption was most prevalent during Milosevic's reign and administrative corruption is a current byproduct of democratic transition. The main cause of corruption in Serbia is extensive government intervention in the market and inappropriate procedural legislation. Hence, remedies include liberalization, deregulation, reform, and streamlining procedural legislation.
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Tax Reform in Slovakia
Branislav Durajka,
Senior Tax Manager, KPMG Slovakia
PB No. 26
(April, 2005)
Abstract: This paper examines the 2004 Slovak Tax Reform which is built on the premise of a flat tax rate which taxes all incomes of individuals and corporations equally at a linear percentage rate of 19 percent. This reform has proven successful to date largely because of its efficiency, transparency and non-distortionary focus.
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Vietnam: Financial Sector Reform Policy Brief
Nick Freeman,
Senior Associate Fellow, Institute of Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS) Singapore
PB No. 25
(January, 2005)
Abstract: This paper examines the considerable development Vietnam has experienced within its financial sector since 1980 and the critical role this reform has played in the wider economic reform and development process in the country. It also outlines the current diversity of financial sector institutions, financial products and services available to businesses and individuals.
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Changing Not-for-Profit Mentality: Case of Ukranian NGOs
Oleksander Sydorenko,
Consortium for Enhancement of Ukranian Management Education (CEUME)
PB No. 24
(January, 2005)
Abstract: Examines the different activities undertaken by Innovation Development Center to become less dependent on donors’ support and to introduce “for fee” services. Describes challenges that have involved this strategy.
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Building Self-Sustainable Humanitarian NGOs in Belarus: Challenges of Finding Income at Home
Ina Ramasheuskaya,
Belarusian Red Cross Society
PB No. 23
(January, 2005)
Abstract: Discusses the major constraints on the development of financially viable non-governmental organizations in Belarus and the existing models of economic activity. Hightlights a first-aid training program operated by the Belarusian Red Cross in which services are exchanged for donations as one example of generating income.
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NGO Strategy for Survival in Central Asia: Financial Sustainability
Anara Alymkulova,
Counterpart International - Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan; Didara Seipulnik,
Counterpart International - Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan
PB No. 22
(January, 2005)
Abstract: Describes the social enterprise strategy that has been implemented by Counterpart International as part of the Civil Society Initiative Support Program in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.
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Between Dependency and Sustainability
Cornelia Predoiu,
The Princess Margarita of Romania Foundation
PB No. 21
(January, 2005)
Abstract: Examines different forms of fundraising and various strategies to achieve financial sustainability for NGOs in Romania.
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Development of the NGO Sector in Urkraine, 2002-04: Changing Patterns of Ensuring Financial Support and Achieving Sustainability
Olga Maksymenko,
EuroRegio Ukraine
PB No. 20
(January, 2005)
Abstract: Examines existing trends and methods for attracting financial support and ensuring long-term sustainability of the NGO sector in Ukraine.
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Promoting Social Enterprise Development in Bulgaria
Tania Kapoor ,
Counterpart International - Bulgaria
PB No. 19
(January, 2005)
Abstract: Analyzes a model being implemented in Bulgaria by Counterpart International, which focuses on providing social enterprises with the business skills necessary to build and operate a successful self-sustaining business.
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How Can NGOs Reach Sustainability in Crisis Surroundings?
Aleksandar Janakievski,
Center for Civil Motivation and Cultural Management - AKTIVA; Vladimir Pandovski,
Center for Civil Motivation and Cultural Management - AKTIVA
PB No. 18
(January, 2005)
Abstract: Suggests several strategies that seek to encourage cooperation between Macedonian NGOs and the business sector.
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New Approaches for the Mobilization of Local Resources
Tony Dimov,
Bulgarian Center for Not-for-Profit Law
PB No. 17
(January, 2005)
Abstract: Identifies potential funding sources for Bulgarian NGOs that will help them reduce their dependency on foreign donors. These sources are addressed from a legal point of view.
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Macedonian Business Lawyers Association: On the Road to Financial Independence
Liljana Cekovska,
Macedonian Business Lawyer Association (MBLA)
PB No. 16
(January, 2005)
Abstract: Explains activities that the MBLA has implemented to achieve financial independence including the launch of several magazines and seminars. Identifies key factors of their success and offers recomendations.
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All for One: the Bulgarian Face of Payroll Giving
Elitsa Barakova,
Bulgarian Charities Aid Foundation (BCAF)
PB No. 15
(January, 2005)
Abstract: Describes the development of payroll giving in Bulgaria and highlights the BCAF program as one of the best organized programs.
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NGOs Based on Professional Groups: the Advantages for Development and Cross-Sector Partnerships
Elena Afanasyeva,
Kherson Center of Youth Innitiatives or "Totem"
PB No. 14
(January, 2005)
Abstract: Discusses the methods and advantages of creating public organizations based on professional groups by analyzing the experience of Ukrainian non-governmental organizations, in particular Totem. Highlights how this professionally based structure promotes the formation of effective and long-term cross-sector partnerships and innovative strategies of income generation.
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Community-Based Organizations: Strategies for Sustainability
Yulia Antonian,
Eurasia Foundation
PB No. 13
(January, 2005)
Abstract: Analyzes experiences of community-based organizations in Armenia which have built partnerships with local goverments as a way to achieve commercial sustainability.
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The Strategic Partnership Between NGOs and SMEs in Serbia
Robert Molnar,
Technical College in Zrenjanin
PB No. 12
(January, 2005)
Abstract: Argues that NGO and SME partnerships are natural linkages in Serbia, explains how this process has evolved and ways for furthering these relationships.
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Innovative and Commercially Sustainable Approaches to Poverty Alleviation
Lea Uhrinova,
Integra Foundation; Allan Bussard,
Integra Foundation
PB No. 11
(January, 2005)
Abstract: Examines opportunities and challenges facing microenterprise development strategies in Central and Eastern Europe. Highlights the need to assit microenterprises in gaining access to markets and explains how Integra Foundation is providing this assistance.
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Social Enterprises: An Eastern European Experience
Jo Lucas; Arman Vardanyan
PB No. 10
(January, 2005)
Abstract: Examines lessons learned in Albania, Armenia and Ukraine by local NGOs that seek to create employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Describes how the creation of social enterprises could be an innovative, commercially sustainable approach to income diversification.
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Health Care Reform in Slovak Republic
Peter Pažitný,
Health Policy Institute, Advisor to the Minister of Health; Rudolf Zajac,
Minister of Health
PB No. 9
(January, 2005)
Abstract: This policy brief describes the impact of only one of the stabilization measures – the introduction of user fees beginning in June 2003. Included in this policy brief is a description of the stabilization measure, an introduction of the reform cycle, and an evaluation of the effectiveness of the implementation of user fees.
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The Development of Corporate Law in Emerging Markets
Vladimir Atanasov,
Assistant Professor of Finance at Babson College; Conrad S. Ciccotello,
Director of Graduate Personal Financial Planning Programs at Georgia State; Stanley B. Gyoshev,
Assistant Professor of Finance at Drexel University
PB No. 8
(January, 2005)
Abstract: This paper examines the impact of changes in security laws and regulations that aim to improve corporate governance in the emerging market of Bulgaria. The research will provide conclusions on how best to implement legal protection s of minority shareholders and improve corporate governance via regulations in an economy in transition.
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Globalization of Service Activities
Dr. S. Narayan,
Chief Economic Advisor to Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee 2003-2004
PB No. 7
(September, 2004)
Abstract: Technology, communication and, most importantly, the Internet have made trade in services a global and nearly seamless phenomenon. Organizations in the developed countries, especially the United States, have taken advantage of this evolutionary change to integrate organizational processes by sourcing services across borders. The strong growth in the service sector, coupled with the tendency of U.S. firms to move service activities to cheaper, more efficient locations, has resulted in the recent acceleration of this trend. The increase in the offshoring of service activities and fears about the resulting migration of American jobs overseas will continue to draw nationwide attention.
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Globalization Threaten's Michigan's Manufacturing and Services
Donald Jakeway,
President and CEO, Michigan Economic Development Corporation
PB No. 6
(August, 2004)
Abstract: This paper examines recent and future trends in job loss in Michigan and the state's strategy to compete for new jobs.
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The Road to Greater Economic Gain
Dave Dougherty,
CEO, Convergys Corporation
PB No. 5
(August, 2004)
Abstract: This paper argues that offshore outsourcing, rather than being a threat to the U.S. economy, is actually an opportunity to increase American earnings, productivity and prosperity.
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Operationalizing the Concept of Policy Space in the WTO: Beyond Special and Differential Treatment
Bernard Hoekman,
Development Research Group, World Bank
PB No. 4
(July, 2004)
Abstract: This paper examines various models for providing a more effective framework for "special and differential treatment" status within the WTO.
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Europe's Unexploited Potential
Jan Svejnar
PB No. 3
(March, 2004)
Abstract: The paper examines the question why the European economy has been getting a bad reputation. New ideas and initiatives come mostly from America and Europe at best follows. While many indicators support this view, on the whole this picture may be seriously misleading.
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Labor Standards and the World Trade Organization
Robert M. Stern; Katherine Terrell
PB No. 2
(August, 2003)
Abstract: This paper argues that attaching law standards to the WTO and trade agreements will not improve the wages and working conditions of workers in poor countries, nor will it have the desired effect of keeping more jobs in the industrialized countries.
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Enhancing the Benefits for Developing Countries in the Doha Development Agenda Negotiations
Alan V. Deardorff; Robert M. Stern
PB No. 1
(August, 2003)
Abstract: This paper lays out what the authors believe to be the most important actions that could be taken in the Doha Round for the benefit of developing countries.
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