The North-South Gap and Global Development

Vocabulary flashcards covering core concepts of the North-South Gap, developing nations, human needs, urban/rural demographics, migration, and post-colonial dependency.

Global North

Generally wealthier, more industrialized countries characterized by higher standards of living.

Global South

Generally less wealthy countries that face greater economic and development challenges.

North-South Gap

The economic and social inequality between wealthy and poorer countries, encompassing disparities in income, education, healthcare, technology, and political influence.

State of the South (Economic Challenges)

A condition in which many developing countries struggle with poverty, unemployment, political instability, limited resources, heavier reliance on exporting raw materials rather than manufactured goods, and less influence over international economic decisions.

Basic Human Needs

Essential requirements for well-being—including food, clean water, healthcare, education, housing, sanitation, and employment—which poverty makes difficult to access.

World Hunger (Food Insecurity)

A widespread challenge often tied to poverty, conflict, natural disasters, and unequal resource distribution that can severely impact education, health, and economic development.

Rural Populations

Groups living in smaller communities and countryside areas who often rely on agriculture and may experience limited access to healthcare, education, and transportation.

Urban Populations

Groups residing in cities and larger communities who generally have more access to employment, schools, and healthcare, but may face overcrowding, unemployment, and housing shortages.

Urban Migration

The movement of people to cities seeking employment, better educational opportunities, better healthcare, and improved living conditions.

Women in Development

The concept addressing how barriers confronting women in education, employment, healthcare, and political participation—and resulting gender inequality—can slow overall economic development.

Voluntary Migration

Movement occurring when people choose to relocate for employment, education, or better overall opportunities.

Refugees (Forced Migration)

People forced to leave their home countries due to war, persecution, violence, or disasters, who often need international protection and struggle with housing, education, employment, healthcare, and adjustment.

Theories of Accumulation

Economic theories describing how wealthier countries have abundant capital available for business and investment, whereas poorer countries struggle to accumulate capital due to poverty, debt, and limited economic activity.

Post-Colonial Dependency

A condition in which formerly colonized countries remain economically dependent on former colonial powers, hindering their ability to achieve full economic independence.