Illusion of Development

Speech delivered by Mary Ann Castillo during “Unpacking the Summit of the Future” discussion held on 27 September 2024. The discussion was geared towards an analysis of SDGs, UN’s Summit of the Future and development from the perspective of people from the ground. Ms. Castillo is the president of Nexperia Philippines Inc Workers Union, a union affiliated with the National Federation of Labor Unions-Kilusang Mayo Uno.

As the Summit of the Future by the United Nations comes to an end, it is important that we take a moment to reflect on the reality of what is happening in the world. We hear so much talk about “development” and “sustainable growth,” but if we look closer, we see that the United Nations is not what it seems. It is not here to help the world’s poor or bring about real change. In fact, it often works alongside the powerful countries and big corporations that keep many of us in poverty and continue to struggle. This is why the world, especially people from countries like the Philippines, will never see real development under this system.  It is timely that we talk about the illusion of development.  A great example of this illusion is our union, as it is confronted with a struggle with our corporate employer.  

Since the 1980s, we have been told that the economy, society, and environment are all connected and that we need to grow our economies to solve our problems. But this message is only half the truth. What is really happening is that these powerful countries push for economic growth that benefits them, while ignoring the social injustices and environmental harm that come with it. This system is called “neoliberalism”. It has nothing to do with fairness or justice. It focuses only on profit.

There is an ongoing global economic crisis. Ever since the financial meltdown in 2008, many countries have suffered, but big businesses and rich nations still find ways to make money. Instead of helping, they push new ways to exploit developing countries, especially through this so-called “sustainable development.” The big players — US, China, and others – compete for control.  While they fight for power, we are left to deal with the consequences: rising prices, job losses, and worsening poverty.

Nexperia, located in the Philippines, is a case in point. Hundreds of workers were removed to increase profit. The reason for these layoffs is automation under Industry 4.0, touted as the next phase of the industrial revolution. In line with this, our company wants to achieve a 1:8 ratio, that is, where one worker operates 8 machines. We are currently at 1:2 and 1:4. This is not an isolated incident as Industry 4.0 is happening globally. This is a pattern we see across industries, where workers are treated as disposable, all for the sake of corporate gain. And while this happens, international institutions like the UN stay silent or, worse, support policies that make it easier for companies to exploit us.  As said earlier, this is a great example of the illusion of development.

It is important to understand that the United Nations has always been influenced by the most powerful countries. The IMF and the World Bank, for example, were created after World War II, and they have been used by the U.S. and its allies to control weaker nations. These institutions force countries like the Philippines into debt through onerous loans with their conditionalities.  

They demand countries to follow conditionalities under strict rules that benefit big businesses and foreign investors. This is not development; this is exploitation.

Even the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are often used to push the same agenda. Instead of focusing on what people in poor countries actually need– things like better wages, education, and healthcare — the SDGs end up being another tool to advance neoliberal policies. This is not just my opinion.  We can see it in the increasing inequality around the world, despite all the promises of “sustainable development.”

Let’s also look at the ongoing environmental crisis. Climate change is real, and it is hitting poor nations the hardest. But even here, the UN and powerful countries are more interested in making money than solving the problem. They talk about “green economies” and “climate-friendly technologies,” but these are just new markets for them to exploit. They use the climate crisis as another way to gain control over resources, leaving the people who suffer the most to deal with the consequences.

So, what should we do? How can we bring about real development, not the version that benefits a few, wealthy countries and corporations?

First, we need to reject this system of endless profit that prioritizes big businesses over people. Genuine development means putting people first — making sure that everyone has a decent job, access to healthcare, education, and a safe environment. We must stand up for workers’ rights, fight for fair wages, and stop the exploitation of labor, like what we see at Nexperia and many other companies.

Second, we need to push for self-reliance. Instead of relying on international organizations that impose harmful policies, we need to focus on building our own industries, growing our own food, and meeting our own needs. It will not be easy, but it is the only way to break free from the cycle of dependence and exploitation.

Finally, we must unite with other countries and movements that are also fighting against this unjust system. Only by working together can we create a fairer world, where development benefits everyone, not just the rich and powerful.

In conclusion, let us remember that real change will not come from the United Nations or any other institution tied to the powerful. Real change will come when workers, farmers, and everyday people rise up and demand it. It is time for us to take control of our own futures and build a world where development is truly for all.