Inclusive growth – how reducing inequality can boost growth

The global financial recession has left many advanced countries tackling difficult legacies. Weak productivity and subdued wage growth are exacerbating the inequality gap. In addition, recent international evidence suggests that rising income inequality is detrimental to growth. This challenge is common to many advanced nations, within and beyond Europe – but to what extent is it necessary to balance the ambition for a globally competitive economy against the desire to ensure more equal and fair outcomes in society?  Is it possible to have it all, and are there lessons to be shared from elsewhere?

As a small country within the UK and Europe, this is the position in which Scotland finds itself. In response, Scotland’s economic strategy has set a dual mandate to deliver economic success alongside a fairer and more inclusive economy. We were delighted to welcome the Deputy First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney, for a discussion with OECD Senior Economist Romina Boarini.

Event Materials

John Swinney's Speech
Romina Boarini's Presentation
Inclusive Growth - Bruegel Event Notes