Background information: The UNCTAD-UNDP Global Programme on Globalization, Liberalization and Sustainable Human Development has been developing the concept of competitiveness and social efficiency as a necessary measure for ensuring the sustainable human development of low-income countries in the global economy. At the same time, the programme has put this concept into operation and tested it in the field. Its work has shown the importance of this economic and social approach. Without it, global integration rarely reduces poverty, instead exarcerbating existing disparities and bringing new social tensions.

Purpose: The event will present practical examples of optimizing competitiveness and social efficiency through illustrations of this approach in Bolivia, Morocco, Senegal and Viet Nam. High-level discussants from each country will discuss how this approach is perceived, what motivated their Governments to use it and how it has been adapted to their particular set of development priorities.

Expected outcome: This debate will stimulate convergence and draw on the expertise of those present in order to further develop the concept of competitiveness and social efficiency. This includes examining how it is being pursued (through what kind of activity); with whom it can be achieved among national and local governments, civil society, the private sector, the United Nations and regional organizations; and how it can be replicated across other countries and regions. The aim of this, and of the programme itself, is to help low-income countries reduce poverty within the framework of the global economy.

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