Scientific and technological knowledge is increasingly recognized as a keystone of economic growth and social development. This paper reviews the main components of policy reform strategies designed to increase the efficiency of investments in science and techbology, with specific reference to...

This document is intended to be used by technical and social science staff involved in planning and implementation of water and sanitation facilities for the poor. It may also be useful to social science researchers applying their craft to the low cost water supply and sanitation sector. With...

Transitioning to a more knowledge- and technology-based economy will be critical if Bulgaria is to achieve convergence with its European peers in terms of economic productivity and living standards. The coming year presents an important opportunity for Bulgaria to improve its support for...

Inefficiency is common in many of the world's water utilities, especially in developing countries. The problem derives from a range of different causes relating primarily to technical, organizational, and commercial (TOC) factors. Evidence from a World Bank study conducted in 2020 shows that...

This note examines the implications of digital innovation for market structure and attendant policies, including financial and competition regulation. There have been several surveys of regulatory responses. This note takes a step back, to look at what the economic theory of banking and...

Since its adoption in December 2015 by the 21st Conference of Parties (COP21), within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), 175 countries to date have ratified the Paris Agreement. These countries have made commitments Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), in...

This report examines three interrelated issues - digital connectivity, digital entrepreneurship, and taxation of digital platforms - that are closely aligned with Malaysia's goal of becoming the e-commerce hub of the region. By leveraging the internet, smartphones, Big Data, the internet of...

Digital technologies have significant potential to improve efficiency, equity, and environmental sustainability in the food system. A range of digital technologies are already leading to: better informed and engaged consumers and producers, smarter farms, and improved public services. Adoption...

This note analyzes the evolution of Credit Information Systems, including the emergence of new technologies that use alternative data in credit decisioning and the opportunities and risks associated with these trends. This paper also predicts the potential development effect of these disruptive...