The Micro Debt. A Critical Investigation

Description

For decades, experts have hailed microcredit as the paramount solution to global poverty. But there is a lesser-known version of that story in which Grameen Bank founder Mohammad Yunus and other promoters of miniaturized finance appear to serve mostly their own interests. Bringing to light a range of potentially unethical practices and policies, this program explores the microcredit system that has been implemented across much of the developing world. Using examples in both Bangladesh and Mexico, the film assesses the financial wellbeing of several borrowers; reports on suicides resulting from massive personal debt; questions whether or not celebrity advocates like Bono or the Clintons truly understand the impact of microcredit programs; and examines the future viability of the microfinance community. Interviews feature respected economists Milford Bateman, Thomas Dichter, Ha-Joon Chang, and many others.

Runtime

57 min

Subjects

Genre

Date of Publication

[2011], c2011

Database

Films on Demand

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