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October 06, 2009

Location, Location... err... Friendliness

The new UN Human Development Index has come out, which the BBC has, with terrible inaccuracy described as a table of the "best" or "least desirable" place to live.

Actually, the HDI, based upon statistics of Life Expectancy, Education, and Income, seeks to look at development, going "beyond GDP to a broader definition of well-being". Such criteria do have some value, and on this front, it is encouraging to see that Burkina Faso has made progress. Ever since I can remember, Burkina has been in the bottom three. But this year, it has leaped ahead of CAR, Mali, and others to be 177th of 182. I know, it still has a way to go, but in these terms Burkina is making strides, which I think reflects well upon its stability, peace, and people.

But, beyond their use to measure "development", it is absurd to use such criteria to qualify somewhere as the best or worst place to live. It is the company that gives a place its quality. Who would rather live isolated, but surrounded by clever, rich jerks, than embraced in a simple, loving community? Many so-called "developed" countries are under-developed socially and spiritually, with huge problems of loneliness, isolation, depression, family and social breakdown, drug abuse, and self-centred consumerism.

At the same time, many poor societies have maintained a strong sense of community and spirituality that bring you closer to the heart of God than the sterility of consumerism. Life does not consist in the amount of stuff you have. In fact, James said that God has "chosen those poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom..."

Life for the inhabitants of Burkina Faso is hard, and I work and pray to see them enjoy better health, education, and well-being. But, for all its poverty and challenges, Burkina Faso is one of the friendliest places you could hope to live. The people are warm and welcoming, generous, hospitable, and spiritual.

Burkina Faso is a wonderful country.

Posted by Keith at October 6, 2009 02:04 PM