Desertification in the Sahel region of Africa is advancing quickly. A novel solution that involves planting thousands of trees may help protect the area’s environment and the livelihoods of locals

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s blueprint for economic diversification in Saudi Arabia – Vision 2030 – could become a victim of COVID-19 as the government dramatically slashes spending

China’s Belt and Road Initiative promises to boost development in poorer nations. But the spread of SARS-CoV-2 means many countries may now struggle to pay back the loans they have accepted from Beijing

When Viktor Orbán returned to power in 2010, he promised to crack down on criminal activity in Hungary. The result has been a significant increase in the number of prisoners, with overcrowding now a serious issue

With the prevalence of earthquakes, flooding and other catastrophic events seemingly on the up, there has been talk of a ‘disaster economy’ emerging. The private and public sectors will have to work together if they are to adequately support those most in need

Many industries rely on the sand trade, but the valuable resource is often exported at the expense of local communities and the environment. Experts are warning that regulation must improve, or we risk pushing the material to the point of exhaustion

Faced with a growing population and rapid urbanisation, Africa is in the midst of a serious housing shortage. Governments must rethink their policies and work closely with the private sector if they’re to secure affordable accommodation for the next generation

The Global South is often considered the poor relation of its northern counterpart. In terms of transport infrastructure, though, there are areas where the developing world is leading the way

In Morocco’s cities, infrastructural projects are well-developed and well-financed. Yet, in more rural areas, basic services are still lacking

As permafrost across more than half of Russia thaws, critical oil and gas infrastructure is becoming defective. If Moscow fails to curb its dependence on fossil fuels, it risks losing power and influence on the geopolitical stage

In its next budget cycle, the EU plans to spend billions on border control. The biggest winner in this arrangement is the private border security industry, which plays a key role in shaping European migration policy

Every year, Paraguay’s capital, Asunción, struggles to cope as many of its inhabitants are displaced by flooding. Greater infrastructural investment could help alleviate the issue

Tanzanian President John Magufuli is moving ahead with a poorly planned and wildly expensive hydroelectric dam project that threatens to push the country’s economy – and the environment – off a cliff

India experienced its most severe drought for seven decades this summer. With water reserves drying up, deep flaws in the country’s water management and infrastructure have been exposed

As Saudi Arabia moves to diversify its economy away from oil, its private sector is beginning to truly thrive