ADDRESSING INEQUALITY IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES: AN INTEGRATED PERSPECTIVE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT APPROACH
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Abstract
Inequality in developing countries is a complex and challenging issue, particularly in an era of rapid technological change and intense globalization. Despite continuous economic growth, the gap between population groups continues to widen, affecting economic development, society, and citizens' quality of life. This article aims to examine approaches to addressing inequality in developing countries through an integrative perspective by analyzing key causes of inequality stemming from colonial historical legacies, unfair economic structures, skill-biased technological change, and globalization forces that intensify these problems. The study finds that inequality has broad impacts on economic development, innovation, social stability, and citizens' quality of life, particularly in terms of access to public services, economic opportunities, and risks of domestic conflict. This article therefore presents the "Integrated Development Model for Inequality Reduction" (IDMIR), comprising five key components: policy and institutional restructuring, human and social capital development, promotion of innovation and technology access, building connectivity and cooperation, and systematic monitoring and evaluation. Moreover, the study also proposes policy recommendations covering progressive tax system reforms, improving public spending efficiency, developing quality education and healthcare systems that respond to citizens' needs, and investing in digital infrastructure to reduce technological access gaps. It emphasizes the importance of implementing approaches appropriate to each country's context, fostering cooperation among various sectors both nationally and internationally, and developing strong local innovation ecosystems to effectively drive solutions to inequality and lead to sustainable development.
In conclusion, addressing inequality requires systematic and integrated implementation through the IDMIR model, which comprises five main components. Priority must be given to restructuring policies and institutions, developing human and social capital, promoting innovation and technology access, building connectivity and cooperation, and implementing systematic monitoring and evaluation. The application of this model must consider each country's specific context and be adapted to suit the economic, social, and political environment.
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