Why are some countries richer than the other?

In early times, countries became rich because climate was good, water was plenty, and their land was fertile and could be cultivated. When the Europeans discovered other continents and established colonies there, then natural resources of a country became very important. The colonial rulers mined gold, diamonds, and ores. The money they earned went into their pockets and made their countries rich. The colonies lost their natural resources and became poor. Today, it is not much different. Foreign companies frequently manufacture their goods in poor countries, where the wages are low, and then sell them in other countries at high profits. The money thus does not remain in the country which worked to manufacture the goods.

How can poor countries be helped?

Many rich countries help the poor ones through developmental aid by supporting projects in developing countries. An example of such a project would be to provide water pumps for the people in the dry Sahelian zone. However, this project may be harmful in the long run because water pumps would lower the level of ground water and soon no water would be available for the pumps. It is more important to offer sustainable options-like erect small walls around the field, so the the wind does not erode the soil. The soil would then retain its moisture and less irrigation will be required. Thus, 'help for self-help' is important. Donations can also help poor countries, especially after catastrophes like earthquake, floods, or famine.

What is globalization ?

Globalization means that the countries of the world are brought closer to one another due to faster communication and access. Flowers, which were grown in Japan, can now be bought the next day in India. Globalization makes the countries dependent on one another. It also increases competition between them, for better or cheaper products. The opponents of globalization worry that the race for cheaper products may lead to production madness in poor countries.