Data Visualization

Blog of the Data Visualization & Communication Course at OSB-AUB

This is my favorite part about analytics: Taking boring flat data and bringing it to life through visualization” John Tukey

Navigating Economic Turbulence in Lebanon and the UAE

Navigating Economic Turbulence in Lebanon and the UAE


Two countries, Lebanon and the United Arab Emirates, emerge as characters in our story, set in a world whose economic landscapes are as varied as the cultures that define them. Imagine the towering skyline of Dubai and the busy streets of Beirut, each presenting a different tale of success and struggle. In this context, the GDP per capita of our primary characters Lebanon and the United Arab Emirates take center stage.

We are starting our story in 2016, a year full of promise and economic vibrancy, as we set out on this narrative adventure. In stark contrast to the UAE’s success, which is a country creating its own route toward modernity while flourishing despite unanticipated problems. Lebanon, a country renowned for its rich history and resilient spirit, proud but dealing with persistent economic challenges.

But then, the incident occurs. Enter the year 2019, the year of the pandemic. A wave of uncertainty sweeps across the globe, reaching even the shores of these two nations. Facing a crisis that will define the trajectory of their economic narratives.

Our major characters are seen battling the effects of the pandemic. Lebanon is in an uncertain position as a result of the economic crisis. Beirut’s once-vibrant streets resound with the people’s struggles. In the meantime, the UAE, which is used to wealth, is experiencing unanticipated economic difficulties.

The line graph’s strike drop begins to take shape as both countries work to adjust to the “new normal.” Lebanon faces a more serious difficulty because it lacks the infrastructure and resources. The adventure turns into a survival mission, with the ultimate objective having economic resiliency. The UAE, which is used to reaching new heights, needs to reevaluate its tactics and reassess its power.

In the middle of the difficulties, our visualization shows a distinct detection. As the pandemic’s hold grew stronger in 2020, the UAE recorded a 6.05% fall in GDP—a significant setback but one that demonstrated the country’s resilience in the face of financial challenges. Given that Lebanon experienced a startling 15.55% decline, the effects of pre-existing economic difficulties were amplified. The graphic data clearly illustrates the significant differences in their economic resiliency throughout the difficult year.

However, the resolution comes with an effective acknowledgment. That Lebanon, despite the effort toward recovery of implementing a diverse economy and rebuilding trust, still struggle with economic crises. That is one evidence to the ongoing narrative of economic conflict faced by Lebanon.

In this economic story, Lebanon and the UAE are not just countries on a map; they are characters in a narrative about growth, survival, and the human ability to overcome even the most difficult obstacles. Each country creates its own path forward, realizing that some paths are more exhausting than others.

 

National Debt & Population Income

National Debt & Population Income

Does a Country’s Borrowing Policy Affect its Population’s Income level?

The Case of Lebanon

 

DOLLAR? LBP?       

WHAT’S THE EXCHANGE RATE TODAY?

DISCOUNTING CHECKS? AT WHAT RATE?

WHAT????     20%????

THIS MEANS I’M LOSING 80% OF MY MONEY!!!

I WAS DOING OK BUT NOW I CAN BARELY MAKE ENDS MEET…  

 

This has unfortunately been the sad reality that
theLebanese people have been living for since
October of 2019.

 

WHY?

 

Because a Banking | Financial | Currency | Crisis

Made a Huge Bubble Burst!                                             

 

 

BUT HOW DID WE GET HERE?

Lebanon has had a budget deficit for over 20 years
and has been borrowing from external parties
for as long as we can remember.

So, as Lebanese citizens, we are born indebted.

 

A country’s national debt affects its population’s income level:

  • Growing debt has a direct effect on economic opportunities

  • If high levels of debt crowd out private investments, workers would have less to jobs do and therefore earn lower wages

Countries with LOWER DEBT exhibit HIGHER INCOME levels per capita.

 

SO HOW HAS LEBANON’S DEBT BEEN CHANGING OVER TIME?

 

WHAT CAN WE DO TO MAKE THINGS BETTER?

Potential Solutions include but are not limited to:

  • Supporting Production and Services Sectors leading to more Job Creation and eventually More Wages

  • Improving Trade Agreements leads to more exports which would Reduce Budget Deficits and make the country economically healthier

  • Attracting Foreign Direct Investments by providing a healthy capital market (ex: improving Reporting Practices) which leads to More Investments & More economic opportunities, More Jobs and eventually More wages

 

IS THERE PROOF?

                                            

Countries with Open Trade Policies seem to have higher income levels

 

Countries with Updated Reporting Practices also have higher income levels

SO, WHAT ARE THE RECOMMENDATIONS?

STOP borrowing from international Agencies

CONTROL High National Debt Levels

 

Implement Policies to boost the economy