A development organization is evaluating the economic situation of a nation that was previously colonized. They notice high birth rates and persistent poverty despite a high investment in education. What underlying principle related to colonialism and economic disparities might explain this phenomenon?

The situation described can be linked to the lasting impacts of colonialism on a nation's economy and social structure. When a country is colonized, its resources and labor are often exploited for the benefit of the colonizers, leaving the local population without the means to develop their own economy. Even after gaining independence, many nations struggle with issues like poor infrastructure, political instability, and unequal access to resources, which can lead to high birth rates and persistent poverty despite education efforts. For example, if a country invests heavily in education but lacks job opportunities, educated individuals may not find work, leading to frustration and continued poverty. This shows how historical injustices can create ongoing economic disparities that are difficult to overcome.