Question 1

What is the difference between developed and developing countries?

Accepted Answer

Developed countries (e.g., UK, Japan) have high incomes, strong infrastructure, good healthcare, and high literacy rates. Developing countries (e.g., Ethiopia, Bangladesh) have lower incomes, weaker infrastructure, and poorer social indicators. However, this binary is simplistic—many countries are 'emerging' (e.g., Brazil, China) with rapid growth but still face inequalities. Geographers use indicators like HDI to measure development more accurately.

Question 2

Why is there a development gap between rich and poor countries?

Accepted Answer

The development gap exists due to a mix of historical and contemporary factors. Colonialism exploited resources and labour in many poor countries, leaving them with weak economies. Unfair trade rules often mean developing countries export raw materials at low prices while importing expensive manufactured goods. Debt, political instability, and physical challenges like tropical diseases also hinder progress. Globalisation can widen the gap as wealth concentrates in already-rich nations.

Question 3

How can we reduce the development gap?

Accepted Answer

Strategies include fair trade (ensuring producers get fair prices), aid (e.g., building schools or hospitals), debt relief, and investment in infrastructure. Microfinance loans help small businesses. However, some approaches have drawbacks—aid can create dependency, and large projects may harm the environment. The most effective solutions often involve empowering local communities and promoting sustainable development, as seen in the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Question 4

What is resource security and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

Resource security means having reliable access to essential resources like food, water, and energy. It's important because without it, people face hunger, disease, and conflict. For example, water insecurity can lead to crop failure and migration. Achieving resource security is a key goal of sustainable development, as it ensures basic needs are met without depleting resources for future generations.

Question 5

How does climate change affect development and resources?

Accepted Answer

Climate change worsens development challenges by increasing extreme weather (droughts, floods) that destroy crops and infrastructure. This hits developing countries hardest, as they have less capacity to adapt. For instance, rising temperatures reduce water availability in arid regions, threatening food security. Climate change also forces migration and can spark conflicts over dwindling resources, further hindering development.

Question 6

What are the main types of aid and which is most effective?

Accepted Answer

Aid can be bilateral (government to government), multilateral (via organisations like the UN), or NGO (e.g., Oxfam). It can be emergency (disaster relief) or long-term (development projects). Effectiveness depends on context—emergency aid saves lives quickly, but long-term aid that builds skills and infrastructure (e.g., training teachers) can have lasting impact. However, aid must be well-managed to avoid corruption or dependency.

Development and Resource Issues

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