Assignment on

North-South Gap

MENA

Submitted to:

Asmina Akter

Assistant Professor

Department of International Business

University of Dhaka

Submitted by:

Md Najim Uddin

MBA 15th Batch

ID Number: SS- 83

Department of International Business

University of Dhaka

Date of Submission

May 7, 2023
 1. What is the North-South gap?
The North-South gap, also known as the global North-South divide, refers to the economic
and social disparities between the developed countries of the northern hemisphere and the
less developed countries of the southern hemisphere. The divide is characterized by a gap in
terms of wealth, technology, education, and political power. The term "North" generally
refers to the United States, Canada, Europe, Japan, and other industrialized countries in the
northern hemisphere, while "South" refers to Africa, Latin America, and Asia, which are
generally less developed. The North has historically been more prosperous due to a variety of
factors, including access to resources, technological advancements, and a longer history of
economic development.

2. Why did the North-South gap happen?

There is no single cause for the North-South gap, as it is the result of a complex interplay of
historical, political, economic, and social factors. However, some key factors that have
contributed to the gap include:
1. Historical exploitation: Many of the countries in the North became wealthy through
colonialism and the exploitation of resources in the South. This legacy of exploitation has
created an enduring economic imbalance between the two regions.
2. Unequal trade relationships: The global trading system has historically been stacked
against the South, with developed countries often imposing trade barriers and subsidies that
favor their own industries over those of the South. This has made it difficult for Southern
countries to develop their economies and compete on the global stage.
3. Debt: Many countries in the South are burdened by crippling debt that has resulted from
loans taken out in the past. These loans were often given on unfavorable terms and with little
regard for the ability of the borrowing country to repay them.
4. Lack of access to technology and education: The North has historically had greater access
to education and technology, which has allowed it to develop more advanced economies. The
South has often been left behind in this respect, which has limited its ability to catch up.
These factors, along with others, have created a situation in which the North is much
wealthier than the South, with the latter struggling to develop and improve the living
standards of its people. Addressing the North-South gap will require a concerted effort by
governments, international organizations, and civil society to address the underlying causes
of the gap and create a more equitable global system.
3. What are the disadvantages & challenges of the
MENA group?
The MENA (Middle East and North Africa) group is a geopolitical region consisting of
countries located in the Middle East and North Africa. While the region has many strengths,
such as a rich cultural heritage and abundant natural resources, it also faces a number of
disadvantages, including:
1. Political instability: The MENA region is known for its political instability, with many
countries experiencing frequent coups, revolutions, and civil unrest. This instability can lead
to a lack of investment, economic disruption, and a decline in living standards.
2. Economic challenges: The MENA region faces a number of economic challenges,
including high unemployment rates, low levels of investment, and a heavy reliance on natural
resource exports. These factors can limit economic growth and lead to uneven development
across the region.
3. Social issues: The MENA region also faces a number of social challenges, including high
levels of poverty, inequality, and gender discrimination. These issues can lead to social unrest
and further exacerbate the region's economic and political problems.
5. Security concerns: The MENA region is also known for its security concerns, including
terrorism, insurgencies, and conflicts. These issues can further destabilize the region and limit
economic growth and development.
6. Environmental challenges: The MENA region faces a number of environmental
challenges, including water scarcity, desertification, and air pollution. These issues can have
significant economic and social impacts, including on public health and access to resources.
Overall, while the MENA region has many strengths, it also faces a number of disadvantages
that can limit its potential for development and progress. Addressing these challenges will
require a concerted effort by governments, international organizations, and civil society to
promote stability, economic growth, and social development.