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By – Dr Asangba Tzudir
For a long time now, development has been considered a universal goal, an index of progress and prosperity for countries as well as individuals. As such, it is imperative to critically examine what development truly means and whether our pursuit of it aligns with the broader interests of humanity. The term development has been associated with economy and growth which were measured through the Gross Domestic Product, expansion of industries, and urbanization and while these aspects are significant, they do not fully capture the entire breadth and depth, the spectrum of development that encompasses human well-being. A city flooded with buildings, and where there are industries, and also a state of economic boom may still lie shrouded in various forms of inequalities, and where there is lack of even the basic services for the people.
As such, the very understanding of development needs to evolve towards a state where development looks at inclusivity, sustainability, and for the well-being of all. True development and progress cannot be measured through city expansion, roads and building construction, or through wealth creation. While equitable distribution of wealth is important, access to quality education and healthcare, preservation of cultural and heritage etc. is aspects that measures development. Countries that sit atop the happiness index are not simply because of high GDP alone, but due to their emphasis on quality life, gender equality, and most importantly environmental stewardship considering the global climate emergency.
Contextually, whether a country or place is considered developed or developing or underdeveloped, resources availability and sustainability, in particular, must become the cornerstone of development paradigm. One clear and present danger is the climatic crisis and humans are at the heart of the manufacturing of crisis. There is need for new models that prioritizes renewable energy, and eco-friendly practices, that development must also not come at the cost of future generations’ right to a habitable planet. The human centrism of planet earth should encompass the moral of future sustenance of beings. This attitude also calls upon Governments and policymakers to constantly engage with communities in order to understand the needs and aspirations of the people while also considering both the local and global context. Human experiences have proven that local solutions often turn out to be more effective than top-down approach policies which are imported from elsewhere.
Today, the very term globalization continues to broaden as the various global situations only creates spaces and opportunities to bring the countries and people closer and together. In fact, globalization is trying to help humanity understand that development is not just about the presence of infrastructure, or material gains, but the kind of development that calls upon the need to foster a society where every citizen assert their own well-being through the opportunities provided and thereby live with dignity and purpose. Development thus encompasses a model where progress is shared, sustainable, and human-centered.
In our own yard, in trying to locate the term development, the situational context makes it difficult to locate and talk about development since even the basic needs are not adequately or necessarily delivered, and where quality life is denied. The situational context so presents a case where it is difficult to envisage a future of development. The irony of it attested by the question – where and how should development start? And before addressing this question, a complete shift in attitude of the people is so desired, thereby recreating the will to work hard with integrity, and assert the collective identity that strives for the well-being of everyone. This will probably help the people in understanding whether the land and the people in it are stuck or otherwise messed up within a moral dilemma.
(Dr Asangba Tzudir writes weekly guest editorial for The Morung Express. Comments can be mailed to asangtz@gmail.com)
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