ITSDPs · International Trade and Sustainable Development Pillars in sub-Saharan Africa: a Comprehensive Approach

The sustainable development (SD) paradigm focuses on addressing the needs of current generations without jeopardizing future generations by balancing sustainable development pillars (SDPs) (economic, social, and environmental). International trade, a key driver of SD and inclusive growth, often favors developed nations, increases socio-economic inequality, and harms the environment, despite the UN 2030 agenda’s emphasis on a balanced approach to SD. Moreover, there are conflicting theories and empirical findings on trade-SDPs linkages. Existing studies focused on developed nations, failed to assess all SDPs, have methodological limitations, overlook econometric tests, dynamic relationships, and gender aspects, and are limited in scope, perspective, and case studies. The existing trade trajectory in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) does not align with the UN agenda, and trade’s impact on SDPs has not been examined well. Therefore, a comprehensive econometric analysis is needed to develop better trade policies. The project will use multi-country secondary panel data collected from international databases, address prior study limitations, use descriptive statistics and an integrated sustainable framework, and employ a simultaneous equation model, notably seemingly unrelated regression. It will offer insights into trade-SDP linkages, inform policymakers of balanced trade policies, and lay the groundwork for further studies. The project also aims to develop optimal trade policies that align with the UN agenda. The fellowship provides a unique opportunity to undertake an interdisciplinary project, contribute to the UN agenda, improve career development, gain international exposure, access world-class resources, network with experts, enhance employability, and attract future research funding. It will also strengthen VU’s global research networks, build internal capacity, promote interdisciplinary research, attract funding, boost academic reputation, and foster cultural exchange.