Abstract

This study explores why certain developing countries achieve rapid, sustained economic growth while others experience recurrent crises. By examining six cases—Vietnam, Rwanda, and Chile as high performers, and Nigeria, Pakistan, and Honduras as laggards—the research highlights how policy consistency, institutional strength, and human capital investment shape divergent development trajectories. Drawing on peer-reviewed studies, multilateral agency reports, and national strategy documents, the analysis adopts a triangulated approach to uncover common drivers and barriers to progress. The findings underscore that no single intervention guarantees success; instead, countries that align structural transformation, state legitimacy, and innovation capacity are better positioned to escape cycles of volatility and achieve broad-based prosperity. The study provides practical insights for policymakers, development practitioners, and researchers seeking to design field-tested strategies for sustainable growth in low- and middle-income contexts.