Research Paper (postgraduate) from the year 2008 in the subject Politics - International Politics - Topic: Development Politics, grade: None, University of Birmingham (International Development Department), course: International Development, language: English, abstract: An effective state is vital for the provision of the goods and services and the rules and institutions -that allow markets to flourish and people to lead healthier, happier lives. Without it, sustainable development, both economic and social, is impossible. World Development Report, 1997 This paper analyses the role of the Egyptian state, a middle-income country in the MENA region, in endorsing development and better governance. Discussed within are the policies undertaken by the state and an assessment of their impact on development and the quality of governance. This paper also includes an investigation into the compatibility of state role in supporting development and in mainstreaming and marinating better governance.