Stronger economies

Developing countries will always be poor unless they can find ways to strengthen their economies.

• In developing countries, about 1 person in 5 survives on less than $1 a day.
• In 2006, 195.2 million of the world’s population were unemployed.

A strong and growing economy means more businesses, more money and more jobs. When the economy is growing, more families can afford to send their children to school and get access the right medicines.

A stronger economy also means that more people will be paying taxes. This enables governments to invest in education, healthcare, roads and other public services without needing to rely on rich countries for aid.

The UK is working with its international partners to help poor countries kick-start and improve their economies. This means helping businesses to thrive and survive, reducing red tape, finding new ways to eliminate corruption or even making sure farmers benefit from international trade.

Poor countries do not want to depend on aid forever. By helping them build a stronger economy, we help them secure a more prosperous future.

• See how loans have helped people earn their way out of poverty in Malawi.
• Find out more about the DFID-sponsored Commission on Growth and Development.