Session documents

This course will discuss graduation, i.e., the process by which least developed countries (LDCs) cease to be members of the LDC category, in recognition of their advances in development. In principle, graduation marks a shift from dependence to a greater degree of self-sufficiency and an emergence from development traps that beset LDCs. However, upon graduation, the loss of access to international support measures tied to LDC status may lead to important economic costs. In the 45 years since the establishment of the category, only four countries have graduated. Projections indicate that the target that at least half of the LDCs meet the criteria for graduation by 2020 is unlikely to be met. UNCTAD suggests that graduation should be viewed as part of a longer and broader development process, and emphasizes the need for graduation with momentum.

This course will discuss the following questions:

• What is the economic meaning of graduation?
• What are the costs and benefits of graduation?
• How can countries achieve graduation with momentum?
• How can LDCs make the most of the graduation process?
• How does UNCTAD accompany and assist graduating countries in their smooth transition process?

•  Programme

Presentations:

•  Graduation
•  Cost and benefits of graduation
•  How UNCTAD helps LDCs

Delivered by: the Division for Africa, Least Developed Countries and Special Programmes

From 10 am to 1pm