1. Colonial vs. neo-colonial power mechanisms – Analyzing how traditional colonialism and modern economic influence maintain global power structures. 2. Impact of landlocked geography on development – Evaluating whether being landlocked significantly limits economic growth and human development. 3. Trade profile and economic development in Latin America – Assessing how reliance on specific trade patterns influences development challenges. 4. Social and economic inequalities in development – Investigating the relationship between inequality and varying levels of social and economic progress. 5. Environmental consequences of resource-based economies – Evaluating the argument that natural resource exploitation inevitably leads to environmental degradation. 6. Sustainability and urban resilience – Exploring how urban areas can adapt to climate change and environmental risks to achieve long-term sustainability.