8.2.1

Reasons for Uneven Development

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Reasons for Uneven Development

Uneven development occurs due to varied social, economic, and environmental factors that influence the development gap between countries.

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Social factors

  • Colonial history influences economic structures and resource control in many countries.
  • Stable governments create better conditions for investment, growth, and public services.
  • A young population can provide a large workforce, but may increase demand for jobs and education.
  • Social inequality limits access to education and healthcare, holding back development.
  • Education improves skills and job opportunities, driving economic progress.
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Economic factors

  • Wealthy countries have more investment, producing better infrastructure.
  • Employment quality and availability vary between countries.
    • LICs export raw materials; HICs export manufactured goods.
  • Access to technology and global markets supports economic growth.
  • Debt and economic instability slow development in poorer countries.
Illustrative background for Environmental factorsIllustrative background for Environmental factors ?? "content

Environmental factors

  • Poor climate conditions reduce agricultural productivity and food security.
  • Natural disasters disrupt economies and infrastructure, increasing poverty.
  • Availability of natural resources supports economic growth and industry.
  • Environmental degradation can harm health and livelihoods, limiting development.
  • Landlocked countries face challenges accessing trade routes.
Illustrative background for Interactions of factors creating the development gap   Illustrative background for Interactions of factors creating the development gap    ?? "content

Interactions of factors creating the development gap

  • Social, economic, and environmental factors interact to widen the development gap globally.
    • Poor education limits economic growth and weakens social progress.
    • Environmental problems increase economic costs and worsen social conditions.
    • Economic hardships reduce investment in health and education.
  • The combination of factors traps many countries in lower development stages.

Jump to other topics

1Paper 1 - Changing River Environnments

2Paper 1 - Changing Coastal Environments

3Paper 1 - Changing Ecosystems

4Paper 1 - Tectonic Hazards

5Paper 1 - Climate Change

6Paper 2 - Changing Populations

7Paper 2 - Changing Towns & Cities

8Paper 2 - Development

9Paper 2 - Changing Economies

10Paper 2 - Resource Provision

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