Brookings: Experts - Lex Rieffel

International Volunteer Service: A Smart Way to Build Bridges

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama has proposed expanding the Peace Corps and building a global network of volunteers. To achieve this goal, David Caprara, Kevin F. F. Quigley and Lex Rieffel examine alternative service models and offer policy recommendations to the Obama Administration to further enhance U.S. volunteer opportunities with the goal of strengthening America’s multilateral development engagements.

Assessing the G-20 London Summit: Voices in Play

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following the G-20 Summit in London, Lex Rieffel examines the three distinct voices reflected in the G-20 communiqué. He observes that the mix of voices reflected in the London Summit communiqué represents substantial progress compared to the pre-crisis pattern where the voices of the G-7 countries crowded out other voices.

Regional Voices in Global Governance: Looking to 2010

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the final part of his series in The Globalist, Lex Rieffel sees 2010 as an exceptional opportunity for change which could result in the creation of a combined G-8/G-20 Summit in mid-2011. With Barack Obama still in his first term, he predicts major shifts in membership that will better reflect the new global power structure.

The G-20 London Summit 2009

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Leaders of the Group of 20 (G-20) countries met in London on April 2 for their second summit on the global financial crisis. In a new set of articles, Brookings experts addressed the critical issues for policy-makers and offered guidelines for more effective global coordination.

Regional Voices in Global Governance: Changing the G-8?

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As more nations are included in the G-8 process, many are questioning what the future of the forum may be. In the third part of his series in The Globalist, Lex Rieffel looks towards the changing dynamics of Italy’s July Summit — and what lies beyond for Great Britain and the Obama Administration.

Regional Voices in Global Governance: The Role of Advocacy

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Among the powerful members of the G-8 and G-20, which countries serve as advocates not just for themselves, but for their entire region? And what motivates them to do so? In a recent commentary in The Globalist, Lex Rieffel explains how Indonesia is able to speak for ASEAN, while China is only able to speak for itself.

Regional Voices in Global Governance: A Natural Progression

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The "geometry" of global summitry is in flux. A new global governance forum will eventually emerge from the existing G-8 and G-20. As Lex Rieffel explains in a recent commentary in The Globalist, several factors point toward the emergence of a G-15 consisting of five "old powers," five "new powers" and representatives of five otherwise under-represented regions.

Dateline Indonesia: Barack, Hillary and Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's first overseas trip will include a visit to Indonesia. Lex Rieffel explains how engagement with Indonesia will be key to U.S. relations with Asia.

The Millennium Challenge Corporation: An Opportunity for the Next President

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Lex Rieffel and James Fox propose seven recommendations the next administration can take to strengthen the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), which they call one of the best innovations of the George W. Bush presidency. However, severe budget constraints and the MCC’s inability to show results could jeopardize the agency’s existence.

Strengthen the Millennium Challenge Corporation: Better Results are Possible

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) is one of the outstanding innovations of the eight-year presidency of George W. Bush. Lex Rieffel and James Fox offer recommendations to strengthen the MCC for better results.

The G-20 Summit: The Medium was the Message

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Despite having seats at the G-20 summit table, emerging market countries are only beginning to work within the broader system, argues Lex Rieffel in a new commentary post-summit, and big tasks lie ahead for the global financial system and the future of the G8/G-20.

Building a Better Global Financial System

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As G-20 leaders prepared to meet in November, many called for a “Bretton Woods II” as the next step toward preventing future financial meltdowns. Lex Rieffel argues that this proposal is problematic because it lumps the World Bank with the IMF and argues for a strengthened IMF.

The G-20 Financial Summit: Seven Issues at Stake

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Leaders from G-20 countries gathered in Washington, D.C. to address a financial crisis whose evolution highlights a dramatic shift in the global economy. In a new report, Brookings Global experts examine seven key issues at stake and make recommendations for next steps.

The G-20 Summit: What’s It All About?

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In new commentary, Lex Rieffel examines the upcoming G-20 financial summit in Washington, scheduled for November 15, and discusses recommendations to improve the effectiveness of the discussions and the governance structure.

A Better Place for the Peace Corps

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Peace Corps, although the standard of excellence for international volunteering, remains constrained by budget issues and low numbers of volunteers. In a recent World View article, Lex Rieffel proposes the creation of a Corporation for International Study and Service that includes the Peace Corps as one solution and outlines potential benefits.

The IMF and the World Bank: A Case for Separating the Conjoined Twins

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In advance of the annual meetings of the World Bank and the IMF in Washington, Lex Rieffel asserts that both institutions, which were created in 1944 to be at the center of a sound and dynamic international financial system, have overlapping responsibilities and antiquated governance structures that have undermined their legitimacy. In this policy brief, Rieffel offers steps to visibly differentiate the two institutions and improve their effectiveness, including moving the headquarters of the World Bank to Europe.

The IMF and the World Bank: It's Time to Separate the Conjoined Twins

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Sixty years following the creation of the IMF and the World Bank, the nature of global financial, emerging markets and poverty aid has changed dramatically. Lex Rieffel argues that if the institutions were to be created today they would be structured differently and located outside of Washington. His case and recommendations for reform are contained in a new working paper.

The Peace Corps and More

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Peace Corps is frequently noted as one of the best tools of American soft power since its creation more than 50 years ago. In a new policy brief, Lex Rieffel and Kevin Quigley recommend strengthening the Peace Corps and detail a specific proposal for the next administration.

Ten Times the Peace Corps: A Smart Investment in Soft Power

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Reversing the negative attitudes toward the United States that prevail in many parts of the world will require a mix of hard power and soft power instruments. Brookings Fellow Lex Rieffel and National Peace Corps Association President Kevin F. F. Quigley provide recommendations for scaling up the Peace Corps and argue that such an effort could contribute measurably to strengthening America’s relations with the rest of the world.

Myanmar: Where Do We Go From Here?

Sun, 03 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As the aftermath of cyclone Nargis becomes clearer, Lex Rieffel and David I. Steinberg argue that the best hope for tangible improvements in the daily lives of Myanmar's people is the newly adopted charter of the 10 ASEAN member countries. The charter has a weak human-rights provision, but it will provide a stronger basis for dialogue with the Myanmar government.

Cyclone Nargis: Catalyst for Change in Myanmar?

Fri, 16 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As the scope of tropical cyclone Nargis becomes clearer, Elizabeth Ferris and Lex Rieffel recall that the 2004 tsunami, which struck Aceh provice in Indonesia among other places, was both a human tragedy and a political blessing. They argue that this experience is not likely to be replicated in Myanmar because the regime will continue to refuse much of the assistance offered by foreign governments and international NGOs.

Disaster in Myanmar: Key Challenges for the International Community

Wed, 07 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

With more than a million people killed, missing, or uprooted by the cyclone that struck Myanmar/Burma on May 3, international aid groups and foreign governments are mobilizing food, water and other assistance for the country. Lex Rieffel, who is currently studying the Asian perspective on Myanmar/Burma, addresses some of the key policy challenges.

The Stability of Global Financial Markets

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In a new Q&A on global economic issues, Lex Rieffel examines the global impact of the U.S. subprime woes, rising food and commodity prices and sovereign wealth funds.

Indonesia's Democracy Lessons

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Following the passing of Indonesia's former president, Lex Rieffel discusses the lessons of Suharto's legacy.

Suharto’s Legacy and the Future of Indonesia

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The former president of Indonesia, Suharto, passed away after several weeks in critical condition following multiple organ failure. In an online Q&A, Brookings’s Lex Rieffel, an expert on Indonesia, examines Suharto’s power and influence over Indonesia and discusses what’s next for the world’s fourth most populous country.

Q&A on the ASEAN Summit

Wed, 21 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Brookings Scholar Lex Rieffel reflects on the significance of the ASEAN Summit and Burma's place among those participating nations.

The Asian Path Toward Helping Burma

Mon, 19 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

With the leaders of the 10 ASEAN countries gathering in Singapore for their summit meeting, Brookings expert Lex Rieffel and David Steinberg of Georgetown University, argue that the U.S. government’s agenda on Burma would be better served by letting its Asian partners lead on the critical issues.

Why the Next President Should Care About the World Bank and the IMF

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Lex Rieffel explains why the presidential candidates should care about the World Bank and the IMF.

Indonesia: Ten Years After the Crisis

Thu, 28 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Lex Rieffel, The Brookings Institution (6/28/07)

Out of Business and On Budget : The Challenge of Military Financing in Indonesia

Fri, 01 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Defense#Defense budget and appropriations

Why Bad Loans Are Good For Africa

Tue, 13 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Lex Rieffel, The Globalist (2/13/07)

International Volunteering: Smart Power

Thu, 01 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Lex Rieffel and Sarah Zalud argue that Americans engaging in volunteer work in other countries encourage more favorable attitudes among foreigners toward America and generate greater understanding among Americans of foreign perspectives. A more robust cross-cultural dialogue could make the United States less dependent on hard power, which has high budget costs.

No Major IMF Reforms Just Yet

Tue, 25 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Lex Rieffel, The Washington Times (4/25/06)

Don't Rush to Reform the Fund (and the Bank)

Thu, 23 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Lex Rieffel, The Examiner (3/23/06)

Reaching Out: Americans Serving Overseas

Wed, 07 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Working Paper by Lex Reiffel (12/7/05)

Nigeria's Paris Club Debt Problem

Mon, 01 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Nigeria's debt servicing problems began around 1985, when the Nigerian government's total external debt to all creditors amounted to $19 billion. Since then, the government has paid creditors more than $35 billion while borrowing less than $15 billion. Nevertheless, its outstanding external debt at the end of 2004 grew to almost $36 billion.

Moving Toward Smarter Aid

Mon, 01 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

President Bush surprised both critics and supporters of his foreign policies in March 2002—fourteen months after his inauguration and six months after the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001—when he unveiled his proposal to establish the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA).

Resolving Nigeria's Paris Club Debt Problem: A Case of Non-Performing Creditors

Mon, 01 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Working Paper by Lex Rieffel (8/1/05)

The Paris Club Owes Nigeria A Fair Deal

Mon, 27 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Lex Reiffel (6/27/05)

After the Tsunami, Flexible Debt Relief is Needed

Fri, 14 Jan 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Lex Rieffel, Financial Times (London) (1/14/05)

Indonesia's Quiet Revolution

Wed, 01 Sep 2004 00:00:00 GMT

Article by Lex Rieffel, Foreign Affairs, September/October 2004

Making Iraq Creditworthy

Tue, 15 Jun 2004 00:00:00 GMT

Letter to the Editor by Lex Rieffel, London Financial Times (6/15/04)

Indonesia in Transition

Thu, 01 Apr 2004 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Lex Rieffel (4/1/04)

Reducing Iraq's Foreign Debt

Fri, 06 Feb 2004 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Lex Rieffel, The Miami Herald (2/6/04)

Argentina: Facing Up to its Debt Mess

Tue, 03 Feb 2004 00:00:00 GMT

Letter to the Editor by Lex Rieffel, Financial Times (2/3/04)

Restructuring Sovereign Debt

Fri, 19 Dec 2003 00:00:00 GMT

Interview with Lex Rieffel, NPR's Day to Day (12/19/03)

Reconsidering the Peace Corps

Mon, 01 Dec 2003 00:00:00 GMT

Policy Brief #127: ""Reconsidering the Peace Corps"" by Lex Rieffel. (December 2003)

The Peace Corps in a Turbulent World

Wed, 15 Oct 2003 00:00:00 GMT

Working Paper by Lex Rieffel, Global Poverty Reduction Initiative (10/15/03)

Restructuring Sovereign Debt : The Case for Ad Hoc Machinery

Fri, 05 Sep 2003 00:00:00 GMT

&A true masterpiece dealing with one of the most complex and topical issues of international finance. To my knowledge, this is the most comprehensive and well-documented book on the subject.&Jacques de Larosiere, adviser to the chairman, BNP

Aid Breakthrough or Disaster?

Fri, 20 Dec 2002 00:00:00 GMT

Aid breakthrough or disaster?, by Lex Rieffel, Non-Resident Guest Scholar, The Brookings Institution, The Washington Times, Decemer 13, 2002