Belt and Road - A Determination of its Success in Countries in Global Communities

Abstract

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) launched by China in 2013 aims to improve global connectivity, facilitate trade, and promote economic growth. While the BRI has seen success in many member countries, some countries have experienced limited benefits. This research paper explores the factors contributing to the success or failure of the BRI in different countries. Drawing from existing literature, we identify transparency, debt sustainability, environmental standards improvement, adoption of social safety nets, and labor mobility as key factors influencing the BRI's outcomes. We analyze data from selected BRI countries, including Cuba, Chile, Gabon, Portugal, and Singapore, to assess the impact of these factors. Transparency is measured using the HRV index, debt sustainability using the GDP-Debt Ratio, environmental standards improvement using the Air Pollution Exposure Index, adoption of social safety nets using healthcare expenditure as a percentage of GDP, and labor mobility using data from the International Labor Organization. Additionally, we examine the GDP per capita as an economic status indicator. Our findings reveal variations in the success of the BRI across different countries, with factors such as transparency, debt sustainability, and environmental standards playing significant roles. The research provides insights into the complex dynamics of the BRI and offers valuable recommendations for improving its effectiveness in member countries.