The article argues that targeted cash transfers represent a feasible, scalable mechanism to end extreme poverty, noting that previous growth-based models have stalled since 2015. Evidence from existing evaluations demonstrates that unconditional cash transfers positively impact consumption, health, and education without discouraging labor force participation. To move beyond small pilots, the authors propose initiating a national-scale "proof-of-concept" program, funded by private capital and embedded within a government structure. This approach is crucial not only for immediate poverty reduction but also for generating the necessary evidence to build state capacity and enable global replication of the model.
Can communities mitigate their rising concerns about data centers?
English Summary
Data center expansion has become a major source of conflict, pitting technological growth against local community concerns regarding environmental impact, opaque land use agreements, and utility costs. The core argument presented is that current development models fail to achieve consensus among industry, government, and residents. To mitigate rising tensions, policy must shift toward empowering communities and ensuring equity in the deal-making process. This requires developing strategies that allow localities to actively manage data center growth while addressing social and environmental justice concerns.
中文摘要
數據中心擴建已成為一個主要的衝突來源，它將技術發展與當地社區對環境影響、土地使用協議不透明性以及公用設施成本的擔憂對立起來。本文的核心論點指出，現有的發展模式無法在產業、政府和居民之間達成共識。為緩解日益升高的緊張局勢，政策必須轉向賦予社區權力，並確保交易過程中的公平性。這需要制定策略，讓地方能夠主動管理數據中心的增長，同時兼顧社會與環境正義問題。
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