"Large and sustained differences in economic performance across regions of developing countries have long provided motivation for fiscal incentives designed to encourage firm entry in lagging areas. But empirical evidence in support of these policies has been weak at best. The authors undertake...

Since 1983 Ghana has been in a phase of increased inter-regional divergence with significant concentration of economic activity in cities, especially in the Accra metropolitan area. In the north, the more recent years have been marked by significant human development progress, while some of the...

Aden has a number of widely recognized unique assets, which are critical inputs to its emerging strategic positioning within Yemen and the region. Most notable is its natural deep-water harbor on the Red Sea, striking landscapes and distinctive topography, abundance of raw materials, and rich...

Since the early 1990s, Jordan has initiated efforts toward far-reaching stabilization and structural reform. The reforms have aimed at laying the foundations for a reduced role of the state, private-sector-export-oriented-growth, employment, poverty reduction, and overall improvement in the...

The report considers the evolving experience in Ukraine, and looks at lessons from other countries in order to spur thinking about how best to move forward in the development of regional policy. In the context of a transition economy, accurately measuring the changes that are underway is...

Poland along with seven other Central European and Baltic countries, joined the European Union (EU) on May 1, 2004. This was a historical event, marking the country's final reintegration with the rest of Europe, and the importance of this from a geopolitical point of view is undeniable. For...

Regional economic development is an interest of policymakers throughout the Europe and Central Asia (ECA) region. One of its principal aims is to reduce poverty in lagging regions by stimulating local economic growth. However, problems exist with this approach. First, it may miss the target....

This report adds value because its inclusive approach of engaging with a broad-based group of stakeholders at the time of both analysis and engagement has served a means of building support for needed reforms. The goal was to generate ownership among Mindanawons through consultations which were...