SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

Developing fragile regions into places of social and economic stability is a challenging undertaking in geopolitically uncertain times. In West Africa, GIZ is focusing on holistic approaches that combine the economy, social participation and state structures.

Millions of people have fled to Ethiopia or been displaced within the country. This poses enormous challenges for the communities taking them in. GIZ supports refugees and local people in finding work and strengthening social cohesion.

Michal Minčev heads the Czech Development Agency CzechAid and, from May, will take up the role of co-chair of the Practitioners’ Network alongside GIZ Chair of the Management Board Thorsten Schäfer-Gümbel. In our interview Minčev talks about new geopolitical realities, the need to pool resources and Europe’s position in the world.

Lithium, rare earths and stable supply chains are important pillars for the green and digital transformation of the European economy. Kristian Lempa, Director of Global Policy, Governance and Cities at GIZ, explains our role in the supply of raw materials and the advantages of sustainable partnerships.

Crises, conflicts and less money for development hit the poorest hardest. The gap between rich and poor continues to grow.

In countries of the Global South and in fragile contexts, digital solutions are emerging that are setting international standards. Germany can learn from experience gained with GovStack, for example, when developing its digital government architecture.