Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, June 21, 2024 — Dr. Tom Lavers, a distinguished Reader in Politics and Development, captivated members of the Ethiopian Economic Association (EEA) and fellow researchers with an informative talk based on his latest book, “Ethiopia’s Developmental State: Political Order and Distributive Crisis.” Drawing on nearly two decades of extensive research, Dr. Lavers provided an in-depth analysis of Ethiopia’s developmental trajectory from the imperial era to the present.
During his lecture, Dr. Lavers discussed the historical and political evolution of Ethiopia’s development strategy. He highlighted how the policies and approaches adopted since the reign of Emperor Haile Selassie have shaped the country’s economic landscape. His comprehensive review encompassed various regimes, including the Derg and the current government, illustrating the complex interplay between political order and economic distribution.
Participants, including esteemed economists, policymakers, and development practitioners, engaged actively in the discussion, posing insightful questions and comments. They explored topics such as the structural changes in Ethiopia’s economy, the impact of political decisions on development, and the future prospects for the country’s political economy.
Dr. Lavers addressed these questions with keen insights, sharing his perspectives on the current challenges and potential pathways for Ethiopia’s development. He emphasized the need for sustainable policies that balance political stability with equitable economic growth, to address both immediate crises and long-term structural issues.
The event concluded with a networking session, where attendees continued to discuss the themes of the lecture, further emphasizing the collaborative effort needed to address the complex issues facing Ethiopia’s development.
