Structural Ad justment and Living Conditions in Developing Countries

By and large, social indicators in developing countries improved in the 1980s, but progress was slowest in the countries that needed it the most. The data show unacceptably high mortality rates, low school enrollment levels, and extensive undernutrition in many parts of the world. Of particular concern are the declining primary enrollment ratios in intensely adjusting countries. This erosion of human capital is inconsistent with the main objectives of adjustment: sustainable long-term growth. The Polcy, Research. and Extemal Affairs Complex drstnbutes PRE Working PapeTs todisseminatethefindings of work inprogress and to encourage the exchange of ideas among Bank staff and all others interested in development issues. These papers carry the names of the authors, reflect only their vieAs, and should he used and cited accordmgl) The find&ngs, interpretauons, and conclusions are the authors own Thea should not he attributed to thc WoTld Bank. its 1loard of Dire tors, its managemcnt, or any of its member countnes. Pu bl ic Di sc lo su re A ut ho riz ed Pu bl ic Di sc lo su re A ut ho riz ed Pu bl ic Di sc lo su re A ut ho riz ed Pu bl ic Di sc lo su re A ut ho riz e