The Intelligence from The Economist A friend of mines: Asia’s coal habit
Aug 26, 2019
Miranda Johnson, Southeast Asia correspondent for The Economist, and Will Brown, West Africa correspondent, delve into pressing global issues. They discuss Asia's alarming coal dependence, with China and India weighing economic growth against climate obligations. Johnson highlights the environmental risks while Brown shares insights on Liberia's struggles post-civil war, facing declining aid and rising costs. Together, they consider the ramifications of tourism commercialization in the Caribbean, questioning the authenticity of travel experiences, as local cultures grapple with economic dependencies.
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Liberia's Economic Crisis
- Aid to Liberia has drastically decreased, leading to economic hardship and public anger.
- People in rural areas report failing businesses, rising food prices, and increased crime.
Weah's Unfulfilled Promises
- President Weah's promises to help the poor and fight corruption remain unfulfilled.
- Corruption scandals and unexplained wealth accumulation fuel public skepticism.
Liberia's Economic Setbacks
- Liberia's economy faced setbacks from the Ebola epidemic and the UN mission's departure.
- The UN mission's withdrawal had a negative economic impact, despite its stabilizing role.