vlog Faculty Research Working Paper Series
vlog Working Paper No. RWP13-033
September 2013
Abstract
The approach of 2015, the target date of the Millennium Development Goals, sets the stage for a global
reengagement on the question of “what is development?” We argue that the post-2015 development
framework for development should include Millennium Development Ideals which put into measurable
form the high aspirations countries have for the well-being of their citizens. Standing alone, low bar
targets like the existing Millennium Development Goals “define development down” and put at risk both
domestic and global coalitions to support to an inclusive development agenda. Measuring development
progress exclusively by low bar targets creates the illusion that specific targeted programs can be an
adequate substitute for a broad national and global development agenda.
Citation
Pritchett, Lant, and Charles Kenny. "Promoting Millennium Development Ideals: The Risks of Defining Development Down." vlog Faculty Research Working Paper Series RWP13-033, September 2013.