Arab World Competitiveness Report 2011-2012 - World Economic ...

Preface
This fourth edition of The Arab World Competitiveness Report is published at a
critical time. The important changes taking place in North Africa and the Middle
East have brought to light a number of socio-economic challenges—such
as youth unemployment, regional inequalities, corruption, weak institutions,
limited entrepreneurship, and the need to advance the role of women in the
economy — that must be addressed if the aspirations of the region's citizens
are to be met.
Arab World Competitiveness Report 2011-2012
For many years, the World Economic Forum and the Organisation for
Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) have been supporting
the region’s efforts to boost competitiveness and growth. Since 2002, the
Forum has been providing detailed assessments of the productive potential
of Arab nations through The Arab World Competitiveness Report series and
continues to stimulate dialogue on competitiveness between the public and
private sectors in the region. Through its MENA-OECD Initiative launched
in 2005, the OECD supports countries' efforts to improve governance and
investment frameworks through policy reviews, sharing good practices, and
national reform strategies. Based on an active network of experts and proven
policy experience, the OECD works with Middle East and North Africa (MENA)
governments to foster job creation, promote better governance, advance
inclusive growth, and encourage international economic integration.
The Report analyzes the competitiveness of the Arab world with a special
focus on generating employment, which, without any doubt, constitutes the
region’s most pressing priority. It also discusses the economic outlook of the
region and analyzes current and future opportunities and challenges.
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This joint Report, which continues the successful collaboration of our two
organizations, is a contribution to understanding the key factors determining
future prosperity and economic growth in the Arab world at this critical
juncture. It offers policymakers and business leaders an important tool in
formulating improved economic policies and institutional reforms.
Angel Gurría
Organisation for Economic
Co-operation and Development
Klaus Schwab
World Economic Forum