"Large and sustained differences in economic performance across regions of developing countries have long provided motivation for fiscal incentives designed to encourage firm entry in lagging areas. But empirical evidence in support of these policies has been weak at best. The authors undertake...

Poland along with seven other Central European and Baltic countries, joined the European Union (EU) on May 1, 2004. This was a historical event, marking the country's final reintegration with the rest of Europe, and the importance of this from a geopolitical point of view is undeniable. For...

Aden has a number of widely recognized unique assets, which are critical inputs to its emerging strategic positioning within Yemen and the region. Most notable is its natural deep-water harbor on the Red Sea, striking landscapes and distinctive topography, abundance of raw materials, and rich...

In conformity with its objective of functioning as a local Government, Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) sought the assistance of the World Bank for the preparation of a City Development Strategy (CDS) for Kathmandu. The various sectoral as well as integrated strategies presented in this...

In conformity with its objective of functioning as a local Government, Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) sought the assistance of the World Bank for the preparation of a City Development Strategy (CDS) for Kathmandu. The various sectoral as well as integrated strategies presented in this...

The report considers the evolving experience in Ukraine, and looks at lessons from other countries in order to spur thinking about how best to move forward in the development of regional policy. In the context of a transition economy, accurately measuring the changes that are underway is...

This note aims to build understanding of the existing disaster risk financing and insurance (DRFI) tools in use in The Marshall Islands and to identify gaps where potential engagement could further develop financial resilience. The likelihood that a hazardous event will have a significant impact...

The aim of the Malawi Economic Monitor (MEM) is to foster better informed policy analysis and debate regarding the key challenges that Malawi needs to address in order to achieve high rates of stable, inclusive and sustainable economic growth. The MEM has two parts: Part 1 presents a review of...

This strategy note highlights issues derived from the preparation of the Djibouti School Access and Improvement Project, on the overall strategy of the education sector reforms, and long-term economic reforms. It reviews the country's education indicators - among the lowest in the world - where...