who have managed to turn around left-behind places. What they have in common is that they have overcome the barriers of centralisation and control. They’ve devolved power and agency to the level where it can be exercised. They’ve set clear objectives and they’ve been able to experiment, learn and adapt.
The key is to empower local communities to take control of their own futures, rather than being at the mercy of distant and disconnected policymakers. It’s about building a sense of shared purpose and collective action, rather than relying on top-down solutions that often miss the mark.
There are no easy answers, and every situation is different. But the examples of success show that it is possible to make a difference, even in the most challenging of circumstances. It’s about rethinking our approach to economic development and putting people at the center of our policies.
In the end, it’s not just about economics — it’s about social psychology, about building trust and cohesion within communities. It’s about giving people a sense of agency and control over their own destinies. And it’s about learning from the examples of others who have managed to overcome similar challenges.
If we can do that, then perhaps we can begin to turn the tide and create a more prosperous and inclusive society for all.