Rivalry and disunity within developing regions

Lack of sense of community and solidarity within developing countries
Tradition-bound rivalries

Nature

Rivalry and disunity within developing regions refer to persistent conflicts, competition, and lack of cooperation among neighboring countries or groups within less economically advanced areas. This problem often stems from historical grievances, ethnic divisions, border disputes, and competition for resources. Such disunity undermines regional integration, hinders economic development, and weakens collective responses to challenges like poverty, insecurity, and external influence. The resulting instability can deter investment, disrupt trade, and exacerbate humanitarian crises, making it difficult for these regions to achieve sustainable growth and social progress. Addressing rivalry and fostering unity are thus critical for development.

Background

Rivalry and disunity within developing regions gained global attention during the decolonization wave of the mid-20th century, as newly independent states struggled with inherited borders and competing nationalisms. The phenomenon’s significance was highlighted by regional conflicts, such as those in post-colonial Africa and Southeast Asia, prompting international organizations to study its impact on development and stability. Subsequent research has deepened understanding of how internal divisions hinder regional cooperation and sustainable progress.

Incidence

In the Arab world, on the Indian subcontinent, in Africa and in Latin America, solidarity is lacking and developmental rates are slowed by intra-regional rivalries and misunderstandings. In South America rivalry between Argentina and Brazil is notable, and there is a sense of difference between Andean countries and other OAS members. In Southeast Asia, ASEAN members and non-members cannot unify on a regional basis to further development. In Southern Africa, the region is neglected while civil wars and international hostilities continue. The lack of, or a weak sense of regional identity afflicts the Caribbean, the less developed countries of the Mediterranean basin including insufficiently developed parts of Europe, and it afflicts central Africa.

Claim

Rivalry and disunity within developing regions is a critical obstacle to progress, perpetuating poverty, instability, and underdevelopment. Instead of uniting for shared prosperity, internal divisions waste precious resources and fuel conflict. This fragmentation undermines collective bargaining power, weakens institutions, and deters investment. Ignoring this problem is reckless—true development demands cooperation, not competition. Addressing rivalry and disunity is not optional; it is absolutely essential for sustainable growth and a better future.

Counter-claim

Austria and Turkey, North Korea and Japan, the Netherlands and Belgium are all examples of near neighbours who have mutual differences. What is it about the "developing country" label that allows the most simplistic slurs to find their way into acceptance ? The perception that a developing country is part of a homogenous region is a convenience of international organizations who for developmental aid purposes are largely responsible for introducing the regional concept, at least in the developmental perspective. The regional concept has more reality in international funding budgets than anywhere on the ground.