Seminar in Development and Macroeconomics Policies [LEDEV2130]

Learning outcomes

The aim of the seminar is to train the students in the practical analysis of country economic data, the identification of macro-economic imbalances and the preparation of policy responses. The seminar is meant to complement the more theoretical academic courses by working on practical cases and historically observed situations.

Content

The seminar will consist in ten sessions, of three hours each. The tentative organisation is outlined hereunder. Sessions 1 to 3:Concept of economic indicators (from background and environment indicators to macroeconomic surveillance) and overall overview of historical macroeconomic trends and policies for major country groups and significant business cycles. The evolution of the main paradigms underlying the economic development policies, stages of economic growth, consensus of Washington, country led paradigm will be underlined. Sessions 4 to 9:Groups of 3 students. Each group will prepare the analysis of a pre-identified country, using the indicators and concepts developed during the first sessions. The presentation of a country will be complemented by the analysis of a paper related to a particular theme (for insinstance: export diversification policy, debt reduction scheme, regional integration, trade capacity building) selected in view of its relevance for the country under review. Session 10 The last session will be used to draw together the main lessons leant during the whole seminar.