The economic development of Africa has long been a topic of discussion, with the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa being founded in 1958 for that express purpose. Combating a long history of colonialism and exploitation, the economic development and diversification of the African continent requires a variety of tactics to address issues that are often intertwined with corruption and social idiosyncrasies, and to properly address them, particular inspection and dissection is necessary. 

 

One such case is the position of women within Africa, which, despite boasting the largest proportion of female entrepreneurs in the world, hosts over 62% of women living in extreme poverty worldwide according to the World Bank. Such issues are of great concern to UNECA, and without being properly addressed, over 50% of Africa’s population will be left behind. The situation in Africa is highly varied between regions and individual nations with a variety of issues affecting the social mobility and economic advancement of women, with issues including but not limited to, the restriction of education in conflict zones, a lack of investment in public infrastructure due to corruption, and child marriage. 

 

In this committee, delegates will have to work to create social change and help advance the economic position of over 580 million people, in turn helping the fiscal development of the entirety of Africa. Supporting the economic development of women supports the economic development of entire communities, and it is sure that this half of the population is essential for the benefit of everyone.

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As we received 600 registrations for JackrabbitMUN VIII, we are now expanding the conference to include this committee. We expect the background guide to be completed and available on this page within a week. Thank you for your patience and for attending JackrabbitMUN, we are looking forward to having you!