In middle-income countries, inequality can become a significant issue as people start noticing that a certain group within society is thriving economically, while others remain in poverty. This observation highlights the stark contrast between those who are managing to climb up the economic ladder and those who are struggling to make ends meet.
The quote underscores the complex challenge of economic disparity faced by middle-income nations. It suggests that as countries progress and wealth creation becomes more visible among a specific demographic, it can heighten awareness of inequality for both the wealthy and the impoverished. This visibility can exacerbate social tensions and fuel demands for more equitable distribution of resources and opportunities. Additionally, the mention of 300 million poor in India emphasizes the scale at which poverty affects large segments of the population, making it a pressing issue that requires immediate attention from policymakers.
The quote is attributed to Sri Mulyani Indrawati, who has served as Indonesia's Finance Minister and World Bank Managing Director. She is known for her expertise in fiscal policy and her work on reducing poverty and inequality in developing countries, which aligns closely with the themes addressed in this statement about economic disparity.
