Hayat, International Development and Globalization
Virtual Internship Country: Ethiopia
Canadian NGO: Forum of Federations
Local NGO: MENA and Ethiopia Projects
This experience has redefined my understanding of development.
Federalism is a concept that is unique but could also serve as a building block for developing countries to achieve democratic principles, expand local government services, personal freedoms, and eliminate tyranny. The Forum of Federations recognizes this and develops projects that expand federalism across the world. Hence, my understanding of the concept has expanded with involvement in ongoing projects of the Ethiopia team.
In my studies thus far, I have learned about the various mechanisms to achieving prosperity, such as neoliberalist principles and democracy, but federalism brings another aspect to development that is less pronounced. Federalism, if properly implemented by governments in the third world could help prevent poverty by granting state governments the liberties to adopt legislation that impacts more diverse viewpoints enhancing the participation of citizens in politics, the economy, and the rest of society.