Discuss the main reasons why attempts to reduce socio-economic disparities sometimes fail.

Refer to Paper 1 Section B markbands (available under the "Resources" tab) when marking this question.

There are a number of possible approaches to this question that may address disparities at a variety of scales.

Responses are likely to touch on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) initiatives, remittances, trade, debt relief, aid and market access as “attempts” to reduce socio-economic disparities. An examination of the factors that dilute or hamper these attempts would be expected. It is possible that responses look at two or three of these attempts and address their disadvantages in relation to their advantages as development tools. Alternatively, responses may focus on the reasons why they fail or succeed. Likely reasons that can be addressed are numerous and will depend on the examples used. Possibilities include: population growth diluting progress made in some regions; inappropriate and/or inadequate aid; dependency; protectionism; food dumping; falling commodity prices; debt; charges to remittances; environmental issues; youthful populations; lack of gender empowerment, international financial institutions, etc.

At band D, responses are likely to describe some of the reasons why some of the attempts to reduce disparities fail.

At band E, responses are likely to give either detailed explanation of reasons/attempts to reduce socio economic disparities or an evidence-based, structured discussion of what could be considered the main reasons for failure or success.

At band F, expect both.

Marks should be allocated according to the markbands.