Global South and its debt burden: modern-day enslavement?

About this course

The course examines the scale and history of debt in the Global South, including its relationship with colonial legacies and the forces driving current debt crises. It considers how debt servicing can conflict with economic development and climate resilience, and explores debt relief initiatives and resolution frameworks. Teaching combines lectures, slide presentations and group discussions, with attention to links between debt and wider injustices involving colonialism, climate change, gender and race.

What you'll learn

• Explain key historical facts and current patterns associated with unmanageable debt levels.
• Examine how colonialism, climate crisis, gender injustice and racial injustice relate to debt burdens.
• Analyse mechanisms that contribute to the accumulation of debt.
• Discuss debt relief, development and related public policy questions.

Is this course right for you?

The course is designed for absolute beginners and people with an emerging interest in global economics. Participation involves listening to lectures and slide presentations, alongside discussion of the issues covered.

• No particular skills are identified as necessary.
• Suitable for learners beginning to explore global economics.

Before you go

• There are no additional costs stated.
• A pen and paper may be useful for taking notes.