Question

2 Reforms to address regional (MENA) development​

Answer 1

Answer:

Economic growth in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is set to drop slightly to 1.5 percent in 2019 from 1.6 percent in 2018, according to a new World Bank report. Despite the fall in growth this year, regional growth is expected to see a modest uptick to 3.4 percent in 2020 and 2.7 percent in 2021.

The World Bank’s latest bi-annual MENA Economic Update, launched today, says the expected growth in the region is led by developing oil importers, such as Egypt, which accounts for roughly 8 percent of MENA’s GDP, with a forecast at 5.5 percent in 2019, and higher in 2020-2021 Growth in GCC economies is expected to reach 2.1 percent in 2019.

Answer 2

Answer:

The Initiative facilitates co-operation between the OECD and the MENA region to promote policies for sustainable and inclusive growth. It addresses regional needs and development priorities, including the integration of women and youth through jobs and greater participation in policymaking. It also takes into account the region’s diversity by providing targeted support to individual countries. The Initiative builds on the OECD’s work method of policy dialogue, exchange of good practices and capacity building for the implementation of reforms.

Created at the request of MENA countries, the Initiative brings together MENA and OECD governments, the international community, civil society and the private sector.