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One planet – two worlds: how long will the North-South divide endure?

Walter R. Erdelen (UNESCO, Paris, France)
Jacques G. Richardson (Decision+Communication, Authon-la-Plaine, France)
Moneef R. Zou’bi (InterAction Council, Amman, France)

Foresight

ISSN: 1463-6689

Article publication date: 7 March 2023

Issue publication date: 9 August 2023

148

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to propose an approach towards reducing differences between national economies and living standards existing between the world’s wealthiest and least affluent nations.

Design/methodology/approach

A systemic review identifies the impeding purpose as proposed above: an entirely new initiative.

Findings

The efforts recommended are vital for preserving the human species and ensuring the integrity of our planet. For both the future of the human species and the planet itself, it is essential to reduce the divide between wealthy and poor. Now is the time to give force to the types of implementation necessary to meet these combined goals.

Research limitations/implications

This essay avoids dissecting problems of current geopolitical and ideological character. Despite their sometimes contentious nature, they are often reduced by intelligent diplomacy.

Originality/value

The study proposes a holistic approach to bridging the North-South divide.

Keywords

Acknowledgements

For their positive suggestions, the authors thank The Hon. Margaret E. Austin, Catherine Buggert-Brendel, Alain Dyèvre, Dato Lee Yee Cheong, Romain Murenzi and colleagues at TWAS, and Sidney Passman.

Citation

Erdelen, W.R., Richardson, J.G. and Zou’bi, M.R. (2023), "One planet – two worlds: how long will the North-South divide endure?", Foresight, Vol. 25 No. 5, pp. 716-733. https://doi.org/10.1108/FS-04-2022-0044

Publisher

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Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2023, Emerald Publishing Limited

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