What is identified as the worst enemy of development?

The identification of war as the worst enemy of development is rooted in its profound and often devastating impact on societies, economies, and infrastructures. War disrupts daily life, leading to loss of human life, a breakdown of social structures, and the displacement of populations. It results in significant economic destruction, halting investment and progress, while also leading to increased poverty and inequality as resources are diverted toward military needs instead of development initiatives.

The repercussions of war extend beyond the immediate physical destruction; they create long-lasting effects on health, education, and governance, all of which are critical components for sustainable development. Nations affected by war often struggle with prolonged instability, making it challenging to rebuild and foster an environment conducive to growth and opportunity.

In contrast, economic inequality, poverty, and natural disasters, while also significant barriers to development, do not uniformly cause the same level of immediate and widespread disruption that war does. These factors contribute to development challenges but can sometimes be addressed through policy changes and social programs, whereas war tends to dismantle the very foundation of development efforts, necessitating much longer recovery periods.