DECO 25A12 - Emerging economies and societies

The emergence of BRICS was the most striking phenomenon of the past decades. The enlargement of the BRICS to 5 new countries as of January 2024 underscores the political meaning of this economic association. Along with the BRICS countries, a new wave of emerging countries appeared in the South, from Nigeria to Indonesia through Ethiopia and Vietnam. But the economic slowdown after the Covid crisis, in association with the USA-China decoupling, inflation and rising interest rates, is hurting emerging countries dramatically, sending them economically almost a decade back. Emerging countries still aspire to be recognized as full partners in global governance and want to have more influence in international institutions, including trade, currency and climate. But their dependence on foreign investments and the burden of their debts may influence their behaviour.

This conference addresses the key issues that affect the economy and society in emerging markets: globalization, slowing growth, demography, women, urbanization, religion, commodities, water, renewable energies, climate change, currencies, companies and geopolitical power politics.

This class is for students interested in international economics and especially the economies of emerging countries. A first experience in these countries will make class participation easier.

Get an average of 10/20 on the required works weighted as follows:

• Exposé 40%
• Essay writing 40%
• Book review 20%

Class participation is actively encouraged.