EDITORIAL Global Inequality and the Inclusive Economy - Economicus

by Prof. Assoc. Dr. Mateo SPAHO

The faculty of Economics, Business and Management is pleased to invite submissions for our upcoming journal issue focused on “Global Inequality and the Inclusive Economy”. Global inequality remains one of the most pressing challenges of the 21st century, manifesting in uneven access to wealth, opportunities, and resources across nations and within societies. While globalization and technological advancement have stimulated economic growth, they have also deepened disparities in income, education, health, and access to markets. The concept of an inclusive economy has therefore emerged as a critical framework for promoting equitable development. Inequality operates both across and within nations. High-income countries maintain disproportionate access to capital, technology, and global markets, while many low-income countries remain trapped in cycles of debt and underdevelopment. Within societies, divides in income, wealth, and employment opportunities are reinforced by structural barriers such as gender discrimination, unequal education, and weak labor protections. An inclusive economy emphasizes fairness, accessibility, and sustainability. It prioritizes not only efficiency but also equity and environmental responsibility. At its core is the belief that all individuals should be able to participate in, and benefit from, economic activity. This involves reducing barriers to employment, expanding education and healthcare, and designing financial systems that address the needs of vulnerable groups. Inclusion is both a moral imperative and an economic necessity, since broad participation strengthens productivity and resilience. Several strategies support inclusive economic systems. Inclusive finance enables access to credit, savings, and insurance for marginalized communities. Investments in education and vocational training reduce skill gaps and expand labor opportunities. Social protection programs, such as universal healthcare or cash transfers, mitigate vulnerabilities and reduce poverty. Finally, sustainable business practices that integrate social and environmental concerns help deliver more equitable outcomes.Technological change can either exacerbate or reduce inequality. Yet digital innovations also expand access to mobile banking, online education, and telemedicine, particularly in underserved areas. Realizing the inclusive potential of technology requires policies that bridge digital divides, ensure affordable connectivity, and foster digital literacy. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a global framework for reducing inequality and building inclusive economies. SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) directly address disparities. Meanwhile, SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) strengthen the enabling conditions for inclusive participation. By embedding inclusivity across all 17 goals, the SDGs recognize that reducing inequality is inseparable from achieving sustainability, resilience, and global justice. Progress depends heavily on policy choices and international cooperation. Governments must promote fair taxation, regulate labor markets, and invest in infrastructure and healthcare. Globally, stronger governance of trade, migration, and climate change ensures that globalization delivers shared benefits. The SDGs serve as a unifying agenda, aligning national strategies with international commitments. Global inequality threatens economic stability and social cohesion. The inclusive economy offers a path forward by aligning growth with equity, sustainability, and human dignity. Guided by the SDGs, achieving inclusivity requires coordinated action across finance, technology, education, and governance. While challenges remain, an inclusive economy represents not only an aspiration but a practical roadmap for a more just and resilient global order.