Risk Management Seminar “Changing Landscape of Aid and the World Bank” (Mr. Yasuaki Yoneyama)

On January 30, 2024, Mr. Yasuaki Yoneyama, the World Bank’s Special Representative in Japan, was invited to give a lecture on “Changing Landscape of Aid and the World Bank”.

The first topic was about the significance of development assistance in developing countries. Mr. Yoneyama pointed out the diminishing influence of the G7 on the global economy and emphasized the importance of the development of developing countries in supporting the world economy. Specific examples were mentioned, including the rapid economic growth and increasing population in Sub-Saharan Africa. Additionally, recent trends such as the declining proportion of Official Development Assistance (ODA) and the issue of aid dependency were highlighted in the discussion.

Next, the lecture addressed the financial issues of developing countries. While the extreme poverty rate in developing countries has been decreasing, it was noted that it has slightly increased due to the pandemic. The financial unsustainability faced by developing countries were also mentioned that it was exacerbated by the surge in food and oil prices following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the impact of natural disasters.

The event drew a broad audience, including undergraduate and graduate students from various universities, fostering lively discussions during the Q&A session. The lecture provided a valuable opportunity to deepen understanding of the latest trends in financial support for developing countries by the World Bank from a macroeconomic perspective.

The World Bank Tokyo Office, in conjunction with the Global Forum on Disaster Risk Management, will be held from June 16th to June 21st, 2024, in Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture. Members of the Ogawa Seminar will also participate in the event as operational assistants.

Authored by Ryosuke Sueda (Master’s Student)