Charter cities could be the solution to global growth and progress

For Paul Romer, Stanford economist and one of TIME magazine's 25 most influential people in America in 1997, global progress and growth could begin with cities. His project, charter cities, is based on the idea that struggling countries can break the cycle of poverty by implementing a new set of rules.

He proposes that the scale of the city is the proper venue for the implementation of new administrative zones, which would allow people to potentially leave areas with bad rules that stifle growth and progress and enter into a charter city with better rules that allow the community to thrive.

Not to be confused with colonialism, Romer says that his idea is quite the opposite, encouraging choice. He suggests that Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and several areas of Africa are good options for the implementation of charter cities. Partner countries will help minimize risk and provide administrative oversight.

For more information on Paul Romer and charter cities check out his blog, chartercities.org.

Image via Wikipedia.