Recent Discussion Papers

The Impact of Terrorism and Conflicts on Growth in Asia, 1970–2004
Authors: Khusrav Gaibulloev, Todd Sandler

This paper quantifies the impact of terrorism and conflicts on income per capita growth in Asia for 1970–2004. Policy recommendations indicate the need for rich Asian countries to assist their poorer neighbors in coping with the negative growth consequences of political violence. Failure to assist may result in regionwide repercussions.

Read Discussion Paper 113.

Managing Prolonged Low Fertility: The Case of Singapore
Authors: Mukul G. Asher, Amarendu Nandy

This paper analyzes Singapore’s multi-pronged approach to managing prolonged low fertility, which has led to population aging, labor force shortages, increasing elderly dependency ratios, and feminization of the elderly population. The chosen policy priorities have created a dilemma between ensuring Singapore’s business competitiveness and meeting its residents’ needs and expectations.

Read Discussion Paper 114.

Can Ethical Trade Certification Contribute to the Attainment of the Millennium Development Goals? A Review of Organic and Fair-Trade Certification
Author: Sununtar Setboonsarng

The growth of ethical consumerism in developed countries has led to increased imports of environmentally and socially certified products produced by the poor in developing countries. Organic products and fair-trade products are among the rapidly growing "ethical trade" products. This paper assesses how the conditions under organic certification and fair-trade certification contribute to the achievement of the MDG targets.

Read Discussion Paper 115.