The Ethos of Progress: Infrastructural Development and Human Rights

The debate surrounding development raises critical questions about whatdevelopment truly means and for whom it is intended. While politicaldiscussions often focus on “inclusive growth”, there is a fundamentaldifference between growth and development. Growth is a quantitativemeasure, typically focused on increasing GDP (Gross Domestic Product),whereas development should be about qualitative improvements inpeople’s lives, including better health education, and fulfillment of basicneeds. However, the model of inclusive growth adopted by governmentsoften prioritizes market expansion and commercialization, which canmarginalize indigenous, ethnic and rural communities. These communities,who maintain a way of life that is less consumeristic and morecommunity-centered, are often deemed backward and in need of rescue,despite their sustainable and non-predatory lifestyles.