Meaning: Susan George, a well-known activist, succinctly captures the essence of economic development in her quote, "What you need if you want jobs are small and medium sized enterprises, local initiatives, labour intensive work, community development, service providers and the like." This quote encapsulates the importance of fostering a diverse and inclusive economy that prioritizes the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises, community-driven initiatives, and labor-intensive work to generate employment opportunities. George emphasizes the significance of supporting local businesses and community development efforts as essential components of sustainable job creation.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in driving economic growth and job creation. These businesses often operate at the local level and have the potential to significantly impact their communities by providing employment opportunities and contributing to economic activity. By prioritizing the development and support of SMEs, policymakers and stakeholders can foster an environment conducive to job creation and economic resilience.

In addition to SMEs, George emphasizes the importance of local initiatives and community development in generating employment opportunities. These efforts often focus on addressing the specific needs and challenges of a particular community, leveraging local resources and expertise to create sustainable economic growth. By investing in community-driven projects and initiatives, stakeholders can empower local residents and businesses to participate in the economic development process, leading to the creation of meaningful and lasting job opportunities.

Labor-intensive work is highlighted as another essential element in the quest for job creation. This type of work often involves a significant amount of manual labor and can encompass a wide range of industries, including agriculture, construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure development. By prioritizing labor-intensive activities, economies can absorb a larger portion of the workforce, particularly in regions where skilled labor may be limited. This approach not only creates employment opportunities but also supports the development of vital infrastructure and essential services.

Furthermore, George's emphasis on service providers underscores the significance of the service industry in job creation. Service providers encompass a broad spectrum of businesses and organizations that offer a wide array of services, including healthcare, education, hospitality, and professional services. By nurturing and expanding the service sector, economies can create diverse employment opportunities that cater to a range of skill sets and qualifications.

Overall, Susan George's quote underscores the multifaceted nature of job creation and economic development. By prioritizing the growth of SMEs, supporting local initiatives, promoting labor-intensive work, investing in community development, and fostering the expansion of service providers, economies can create a robust and inclusive environment for job creation. This approach not only generates employment opportunities but also contributes to the overall well-being and prosperity of communities. George's insights serve as a reminder of the importance of pursuing holistic and inclusive economic development strategies to address the pressing need for job opportunities in societies around the world.