This conference aims at questioning our understanding of economic development and the way it shapes development policies.

The discipline of development economics itself is only nascent. It gained recognition just about 40-50 years ago. But, what have we learned since ? Do we explain better observed historical and contemporaneous development facts today? If it is the case, how can it be that some regions are still stuck in a very deep state of poverty ?

In this conference we want the theory to meet the policies. We will question the role of migration, human capital, governance and environment for the long-run development of the poorest parts of the world - and try to adopt a holistic view on development. 

For this, we will welcome 2 guests from academic research and policymaking : 

Hillel Rapoport is specialized in development economics and particularly on questions related to migration. He is Professor at the Paris School of Economics, Scientific Adviser at the CEPII and Senior Member at l’Institut Universitaire de France. He taught and researched in many other institutions, including the Bar-Ilan University, the IZA, the European University Institute and the University of Chicago. 

Thomas Melonio is Executive Director of Innovation, Research and Knowledge at the French Development Agency. He previously worked as the Africa Advisor at the French Presidency and Economist at the AFD. He holds a PhD in Economics from Sciences Po. 

A large share of the debate (at least one hour) will be dedicated to questions from the students. So prepare some questions !!