Thursday, November 13, 2008

Pakistan under American Politics

Since, the Republicans have completed two terms (8 yrs) in the oval office, I thought to compare their policy impact on Pakistan’s economy and compare it with previous eight years of Democrats Clinton era. In addition, I also compared the South Asian region’s economy to see how it grew under both. Holding everything constant (ceteris paribus), I took Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate as a core economic indicator to describe country’s economical health. There are other macro-economic indicators as well which are equally important in analyzing the economy, but, to avoid complexity, I kept it simple with just one variable. Note that I’m not favoring any political party nor seeking any association. Instead, this analysis is done purely on factual basis. In addition, it’s not necessary to judge the performance of any political party based on its foreign policy or on any other country’s performance. However, it’s one of the several factors which demand careful consideration in describing successes and failures.

Pakistan’s GDP Growth under Democrats era (1993-2000):


Pakistan’s GDP Growth under Republicans era (2001-2008):


South Asian region average growth under Democrats (1993-2000):


South Asian region average growth under Republicans (2001-2008):




The above data is taken from various resources such as World Bank, CIA world fact book, Asian Development Bank, IAEA, State Bank of Pakistan and etc. To make the argument interesting, let’s look at World’s GDP under both; republicans and democrats:



World’s GDP under Democrats (1993-2000):

World’s GDP under Republicans (2001-2008):

I’ll not allow myself to be the advocate of any party rather would welcome others comment to come up with better reasoning in supporting their association. In conclusion, be it Democrats or Republicans, every decision made by America has an impact on other countries. Every political move by these parties changes the economic cycle of other regions. Let’s hope the newly elected President Obama proves good for the developing economies.























































































































































































Wednesday, November 5, 2008

President Obama- a 'brand' for the developing nations

President Obama became the first african american president in the history of The United States of America. What message it gives to the international community in particular the developing countries? In past, how many american presidents have sincerely helped developing nations to meet the economic challenges of the 21st century? What vested interests does america have on other geographies/economies? These are the questions that bothers each and every individual residing in third world countries.
America has always provided economic assistance to other nations. Be it in a form of aid, loan or whatsoever, she has given enough capital to the under-developed and the developing world to meet their demand. To question her sincerity is a different argument which should take an un-biased approach towards judgement. However, the question should be put on the heads of state of third world countries about their sincerity and actions. Unlike many U.S presidents, Obama will be seen as a totally new figure, who came from the minority but has the majority to back him. The contrast is similar for the developing countries representation with the developed world. Do we; the developing/underdeveloping nation, have one such figure who can raise his/her voice to the developed nation? If obama can meet all the challenges and resist the pressure from some strong political establishments at his home, can't we do something similar? Can't we dictate our own terms and conditions to do business? The answer is only 'YES' if we have been sincere with our community. Yes, it would have been possible if the funds provided to us were used in building country's infrastructure instead of making our own fortune. Yes, we could have done it if we had a system of checks and balance so that no one acts above the law and understand the problem faced by its citizens.
Lastly, I request all the developing countries to be at-least the follower of one man who through his courage and determination turned every odds into even. A person who said after winning the election "they say this day will never come". This person is none other than Barack Hussein Obama who will be remembered as the 'braveheart' of the 21st century. Let's be a follower if not a leader!

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Capitalism-Yes or No?

With industrial nation's economy dwindling, what would be the fate of developing countries in the current scenario? Do we think the word 'Capitalism' needs re-engineering or shall we argue for a better economic model yet not seen by humans of our generation. This constant thought continuously strive in me with respect to developing countries association with developed nations. Markets have failed to adjust themselves as promised by the concept of free markets;however, with no better economic model lying in front of us, once again we are the beggers to accept harsh realities of Capitalism. It would be interesting to see the mixture of semi-controlled economy where the rights of free markets are limited to an extent that they do not earn incredibly high profits at the cost of other organization. But, how can you control the environment? Who control's the flow of information? We do not need government interference to dictate supply and demand practice nor we need any sort of monopoly. Can all this be achieved in a realistic environment? The search for the term 'best economic model' continues...