Shared prosperity

Origin

While the dream of a society where everyone benefits from economic growth is ancient, the explicit concept of 'shared prosperity' as a policy goal truly crystallized in the 20th century. After the devastation of two World Wars and the Great Depression, nations and international bodies like the United Nations and later the World Bank began to articulate the necessity of not just growth, but inclusive growth. The idea was simple yet profound: an economy only truly thrives when its dividends are distributed widely, lifting all boats rather than concentrating wealth at the very top. This became a foundational principle for post-war reconstruction and development, pushing leaders to craft policies that ensured education, healthcare, and opportunities weren't just for the privileged few, but for every citizen, laying the groundwork for a more stable and just global future.