Photo gallery of the event.

Elites play a crucial role in the development process. Their influence in politics, government, business, the media and intellectual discourse profoundly influences the direction of economic and social activities. In some countries, the preferences of elites are closely aligned with the national interest. Elsewhere their predation is a major source of development failures.

This conference will examine the formation and perpetuation of elites and their impact on development outcomes. Topics will include, inter alia, the means by which elite status is attained and transmitted to others, especially other family members; the ways in which power is exercised; and the extent to which the personal goals of members of elites are consistent with national objectives. Exploration of these issues will improve our understanding of how elites can be encouraged to act in a way that has positive economic and social results.

The conference is intended for researchers and technical advisors/policymakers. Participants attending UNU-WIDER conferences typically come from universities, research institutes, government departments, or international organizations. The conference is open to advanced PhD students in economics or other social science disciplines.

See the research page for this project.