In this paper we consider the link often alleged between ethnic diversity and the growth rate of GDP per capita. We first assume that it is ethnic polarization rather than ethnic fragmentation that is harmful for growth so that the relationship may be non-linear. Second, we hypothesize that the...

This paper, relying on the results of several cross-sectionnal growth regressions, examines the factors determining the sustainability of policy reforms and growth in Africa. Five structural factors are considered as determinants of policy: 1) ethno-linguistic fragmentation, which influences...

A dominant trend of the literature maintains that donors’ assistance should be targeted to poor countries with sound institutions and policies. In this context donors’ selectivity refers to what extent their aid is allocated according to the principles of this “canonical” model. This...

Since 1992, Vietnam has been implementing a policy aimed at anchoring its currency vis-à-vis the dollar. Does the "Asian crisis" threaten this policy? The aim of this paper is to present the arguments of this debate through an analysis of both the consequences of the Asian financial crisis on...

Based on an annual sample of 122 countries over the 1963-1994 period, this paper shows that real exchange rate depreciation reduces deforestation in relatively developed countries (with GDP per capita greater than $900) whereas it has the opposite effect in poor countries. A possible explanation...

Les principes sur lesquels repose le régime des changes des pays africains de la zone franc se sont maintenus depuis les indépendances (change fixe, mais ajustable, défini par rapport au franc français, liberté des changes à l'intérieur de la zone et harmonisation de la réglementation...

This article argues that the effectiveness of the CFA francs devaluation was greater in Cameroon than in Cote d'Ivoire unlike the opinion which is generaly drawn from the evolution of the real effective exchange rates. This conclusion is based on the change of wages, international prices,...

This paper considers the effects of a more or less trade and capital openness on the instability of the growth rate. Indicators of outward looking policies are estimated by eliminating the impact of structural factors through a panel standardization equation. Then indicators of growth...

Deforestation is a phenomenon that has largely been concentrated in the developing world. We construct a theoretical model of deforestation that focuses on the factors affecting the incentives to transform forested land into agricultural land. We show that: (i) lower discount rates and stronger...

This paper considers the rationale and possible modalities of a reform of "Stabex", the scheme set up by the Lomé Conventions to stabilize (agricultural) export proceeds. Such a reform could take place when the Convention between the ACP countries and the European Union is renewed. The problem...