Brookings: Topics - Development

The Global Food Crisis: "The Silent Tsunami"

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 24, 2009, 1:30 PM to 02:45 PM

On November 24, Global Economy and Development at Brookings will host a discussion on nutrition, school feeding programs and food security in the developing world. Over the past five years, droughts in grain-producing nations, increased oil prices and sales of corn to produce biofuels have contributed to skyrocketing food prices and lower quantities of food reserves. Issues of food and food security differ in complexity across state, national and regional boundaries, often depending on the strength of a country’s economy and the stability of its political leadership.

Intra-Party Democracy in China: Should We Take It Seriously?

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Cheng Li examines the concept of "intra-Party democracy," which China's leaders have recently characterized as the lifeblood of the Chinese Communist Party, and as crucial to its continued primacy. Li argues that intra-party democracy is important for institutionalizing the new rules and norms of Chinese elite politics, and that it is an experiment which will have profound implications for China's political future.

Sustaining Growth in Sub-Saharan Africa

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:00:00 GMT

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November 19, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

On November 19, the Africa Growth Initiative at Brookings hosted Antoinette Sayeh, director of the African Department of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), for a discussion on the economic outlook for Africa. The IMF has just released its semi-annual Regional Economic Outlook for Africa which contains findings that indicate sub-Saharan Africa’s economic activity has slowed sharply with the onset of the global financial crisis. As the world economy stages a tentative recovery, what does this mean for the region?

Corruption Index Today, Election Tomorrow, Aid Revamp the Day After?

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In reaction to news of brazen corruption in Afghanistan and the release of the new Corruption Perceptions Index, Daniel Kaufmann asks tough questions about the relationship between aid and corruption and suggests improvements in how development aid effectiveness is reviewed.

Tackling HIV/AIDS in Africa: From Knowledge to Behavior Change

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On October 29 President Zuma surprised the South African Parliament by announcing the need to "respond with urgency and resolve" to the "devastating impact of HIV and AIDS" on the nation. Richard Joseph discusses recent efforts to combat this disease in Africa and what can be done to facilitate further effective and humane action.

The U.S. Should Encourage Structural Transformation Strategies in Africa

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

U.S. Deputy Secretary of Treasury Neal Wolin's visit to three African nations demonstrates the commitment by the current administration to African development issues. Ernest Aryeetey urges Deputy Secretary Wolin to focus on sustainable development and encourage countries to establish frameworks for long-term growth.

Obama's Kenya: A Potential Political Minefield

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On October 26 Johnnie Carson, assistant secretary of state for African affairs, announced that the U.S. was revoking the visa of a top Kenyan official because of his role in blocking reforms in the country. Mwangi Kimenyi discusses this approach and urges that the focus should be on overhauling institutions, not targeting individuals.

Generation in Waiting : The Unfulfilled Promise of Young People in the Middle East

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Young people in the Middle East (15--29 years old) constitute about one-third of the region's population. Generation in Waiting portrays their plight, urging greater investment designed to improve the lives of this critical group.

21st Century Global Governance: Broadening Participation in International Institutions

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 12:00:00 GMT

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October 30, 2009, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

While most international institutions involve only governments in their formal governance structure, a number of innovative institutions have emerged in recent years that engage multi-stakeholders in their governance processes. On October 30, the Center for Universal Education at Brookings hosted a roundtable with experts and leaders from a number of these innovative institutions.

Teaching and Learning in Emergencies, Chronic Crises, and Early Recovery

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 10:00:00 GMT

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October 27, 2009, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

In contexts of crisis and emergency, resuming education delivery is increasingly regarded as a vital part of the humanitarian response and plays an important role in protecting citizens while laying a sustainable foundation for recovery, peace, and development. The Center for Universal Education convened a consultative workshop on October 27 with the Inter-Agency Network on Education in Emergencies (INEE) focused on the development of the INEE Guidance Notes on Teaching and Learning in Emergencies, Chronic Crises, and Early Recovery.

Iraq's Economy Needs More Than Security

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Although violence in Iraq has decreased, Raj Desai states other transitions are needed before U.S. businesses feel comfortable about the Iraqi investment climate. In addition to security, Desai offers three sets of fundamental reforms to convince investors that Iraq is really "open for business."

Tracking the Global Economic Recovery: Insights on the IMF's New World Economic Outlook

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In May 2009, Laurence Chandy, Geoffrey Gertz and Johannes Linn examined the global impact of the financial crisis based on data from the IMF’s April World Economic Outlook (WEO). Following the release of a new WEO database released earlier this month, they appraise their previous assertions and analyze the salient features of the global economic recovery.

U.S. Counternarcotics Strategy in Afghanistan

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In testimony before the Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control, Vanda Felbab-Brown discussed how narcotics production influences the security, political, and economic developments in Afghanistan. Felbab-Brown also examined the effectiveness of policies to mitigate these effects and offered recommendations for the future of U.S. policy on the issue.

U.S. Private Philanthropy

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A striking gap has emerged in the United States between official government aid and private aid. As the U.S. government reviews its external development assistance, some believe the deliberations will not reflect how those outside Washington think about development. Homi Kharas discusses what motivates private aid donors and the impact they make.

Presidents Obama and George H.W. Bush: Building Bridges Through Service

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

By highlighting the critical role of volunteerism in addressing challenges at home and abroad, President Obama spoke to American community service participation at a forum Friday hosted by former President George H. W. Bush and the Points of Light Institute. David Caprara says the bipartisan nature of America’s vibrant service movement is urgently needed.

Expanding the Financial Services Frontier: Lessons From Mobile Phone Banking in Kenya

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Access to financial services is crucial to economic growth and poverty reduction, yet a large proportion of households in developing countries lack access to financial services. Brookings expert Mwangi Kimenyi and Njuguna S. Ndung’u, Governor of the Central Bank of Kenya, discuss the Kenyan experience with mobile phone banking and how this technology can expand the financial services frontier.

Africa's (Large)⁴ Problem

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

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There is wide agreement that the African developmental problem is largely rooted in its institutions. Mwangi Kimenyi discusses the link between size and the quality of governance in African countries.

Case Study on Aid Effectiveness in Tajikistan

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Official Development Aid grew significantly from 1992 to 2006; and transformed from mostly humanitarian aid and food assistance to financing the reforms and development of Tajikistan. In this case study, Rustam Aminjanov, Matin Kholmatov, and Firuz Kataev present Tajikistan's perspective of, experiences with, and challenges to foreign aid.

Do Philanthropic Citizens Behave Like Governments?

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Rapid growth in private development aid raises a host of questions regarding the allocation of aid and its selectivity across recipient countries. Raj Desai and Homi Kharas analyze giving patterns from two large, internet-based non-profit organizations and discuss the need for private and official aid partnerships.

No Big Blank Checks for Afghanistan

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon says an apparent gap has emerged between the military leadership in Afghanistan and President Obama's advisers who have growing doubts about the mission there. Though additional troops may be needed, O'Hanlon believes it is it is sensible to tie a commitment of more resources to the Afghanistan government doing more and addressing corruption within their country.

Contemporary Development Challenges in Kenya

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 09:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 01, 2009, 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM

In October 2009 a high-level delegation of officials from the office of the president and government of Kenya visited the Brookings Institution. The event, which was hosted by the Africa Growth Initiative, included discussion on the key political, economic, and social challenges currently affecting Kenya’s development.

Iran Sanctions: Who Really Wins?

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Iranian officials agreed in principle with the United States and five other international powers in Geneva to export their uranium enrichment program in exchange for a halt in UN sanctions action. Djavad Salehi-Isfahani argues that sanctions would be the wrong choice anyway. Existing sanctions have had no discernible effect on Iran's nuclear policy, and harsher sanctions may actually strengthen President Ahmadinejad's populist control of the economy.

Nigerian Foreign Minister Chief Ojo Maduekwe on the Nigeria-U.S. Partnership

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 09:15:00 GMT

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September 30, 2009, 9:15 AM to 10:45 AM

On September 30, the Brookings Institution hosted Chief Ojo Maduekwe, the foreign minister of Nigeria, for a conversation on the U.S.-Nigeria partnership, and the challenges and opportunities for democratic and economic reform and regional stability in Africa's most populous country.

Fighting Radicalism, not 'Terrorism': Root Causes of an International Actor Redefined

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the years since the September 11th attacks, Western policymakers, analysts and academics have debated the best approaches to confronting and ending terrorism. Brookings Fellow Omer Taspinar argues that the global fight against extremist violence must move beyond the "war on terror" to a broader strategy of fighting radicalism with human development - an approach that would address the political, economic and social conditions that foment violent radicalism.

The 0.85 Percent Solution for Low-Income Countries

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A topic of discussion at previous G-20 summits, IBRD resources are central to helping poor countries survive this economic crisis. Homi Kharas discusses the importance of making IBRD resources much more widely available to promote development and urges G-20 leaders to continue talks about this issue at the summit in Pittsburgh.

Universal Education is an Investment for America

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama's speech at the Clinton Global Initiative on September 22 stressed the importance of international development in a globalized world. Rebecca Winthrop outlines the benefits to Americans of supporting international development causes, with particular attention to universal education.

Why We Can't Go Small In Afghanistan

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As questions about future military deployments to Afghanistan grow more numerous, Michael O'Hanlon and Bruce Riedel dissect the argument that the United States can again narrow the mission to only address counterterrorism. O'Hanlon and Riedel conclude the correct path remains the one outlined by President Obama in March, even though it may require more time and resources.

Three Reasons the Americans Should Support Global Education

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

One year after committing to a $2 billion Global Fund for Education, President Obama returned to the Clinton Global Initiative on September 22 to speak about international development. Rebecca Winthrop discusses the importance of renewing the commitment to education in the developing world and its relevance to all Americans.

Combating Judicial Corruption in Uganda

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The challenges that the judiciary system in Uganda has faced are well known, but the country has come a long way from that past. In a new paper, Cynthia Baldwin proposes a four-part approach to control judicial corruption.

President Obama and the Spirit of Global Development Partnership

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The key feature of President Obama's speech on September 22 at the Clinton Global Initiative was a call for a new spirit of global partnership, with respect to aiding the world's poor and countering transnational treats. Noam Unger discusses steps the U.S. government could take to advance global development efforts.

Tie Troops to Progress on Afghanistan’s Corruption

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon and Jane Harman write that the Afghanistan metrics delivered to Congress last week sorely understate the issue of government corruption. They conclude success in Afghanistan hinges on success of an anti-corruption effort and offer suggestions for both internal and external actors to address the problem.

The Middle East and the New Global Economy: Revisiting Egypt in the Wake of the Downturn

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As leaders from the Group of Twenty (G-20) nations prepare to meet to take stock of the world's economy, the Middle East finds itself increasingly influenced by global trends and policies. Brookings expert Tarik Yousef and professor Ragui Assaad discuss Egypt's responses to the downturn and its future role in the global economy.

Obama's Commitment to the World's Children

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

One year after making a major commitment to give every child the chance to attend school, President Barak Obama addressed the opening session at the Clinton Global Initiative's 2009 Annual Meeting on September 22. David Gartner discusses the urgency of the Global Fund for Education's creation and the unique opportunity Obama has to lead the world towards universal education.

China on the Road to Prosperity

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

60 years after its founding, the People's Republic of China has achieved significant progress toward becoming a major and global power. Nonresident Senior Fellow David Shambaugh examines the contours of the nation's economic, social, political, and military development and considers some of the implications for China and the world.

G-20 Summit: Recovering from the Crisis

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On September 24, President Obama will chair his first G-20 Summit in Pittsburgh. With the world economy improving, leaders will now focus their attention on economic recovery and restoring financial stability. Experts from Brookings Global Economy and Development program analyze top issues to be addressed at the summit and provide recommendations on how to effectively overcome global economic and governance challenges to ensure recovery now and to prevent future crises.

Climate Change Policy: Recommendations to Reach Consensus

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the financial crisis continues to take its toll on the global economy, another serious challenge looms large: preventing the planet from warming more than 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Brookings experts and colleagues from the public and private sectors develop strategies and provide recommendations to policymakers who are now faced with the daunting task of stabilizing the climate without dampening economic recovery.

Four Ways to Help Africa?

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In response to a Wall Street Journal article by former Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Jendayi E. Frazer, Brookings expert Mwangi Kimenyi urges that U.S. policy toward Africa should be defined by a sustainable agenda whose focus is economic development.

What's Right With Afghanistan

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As support for the war in Afghanistan continues to fall, Michael O'Hanlon and Bruce Riedel examine the positive aspects of the mission there. They argue that state building is an inherently slow process while concluding the largely pro-American Afghan people want to succeed and noting police and military forces are becoming more able.

Afghanistan: Measuring Progress Toward Peace

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following the important August 20 elections in Afghanistan, Michael O'Hanlon and Bruce Riedel write that this is likely the final fresh start for the U.S. and NATO. With support for the war falling at home and abroad, they explore how progress should be quantified in Afghanistan and urge patience regarding the mission there.

A Global Fund for Education: Achieving Education for All

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In order to realize the world’s commitment to ensuring education for all by 2015, important innovations and reforms will be needed in the governance and financing of global education. David Gartner advises that the Global Fund for Education holds the key and outlines a set of core principles to guide the fund.

Quality and Coordination of Official Development Aid in Pakistan

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pakistan has historically received large volumes of aid but it has also faced an increasingly difficult task of aid coordination. Abdul Malik examines aid quality and discusses its implication for the coordination and effectiveness of aid.

Democracy In Egypt: Necessary Ingredient in a U.S.-Egyptian Partnership

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak recently visited Washington for the first time since 2004. Tamara Cofman Wittes and Michele Dunne examine how he and President Obama can achieve shared goals for the Middle East. Wittes and Dunn analyze areas in which the relationship could be improved and offer suggestions for strengthening the partnership with both the citizens and government of Egypt.

A Nigerian-American Partnership Beckons

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following State Hillary Clinton's visit to Nigeria at the end of her 11-day tour of African nations, Richard Joseph says that Nigeria has a historic opportunity to address its myriad problems. "Nigeria and the United States," Joseph writes, "could initiate a new era of cooperation based on shared commitments to constitutional democracy, the strengthening of open, multi-ethnic and multi-religious societies and laying the foundations for sustainable and equitable growth."

Making Africa a Priority in U.S. Foreign Assistance

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's multi-nation tour of Africa highlights America's development aid imbalance. Last year, the United States directed almost three-quarters of its resources to countries that are not among the poorest in the world. David Gartner argues that a greater focus on the least developed countries, especially those in Africa, would yield enormous progress toward reducing global poverty.

Africa and the Obama Administration

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 16:44:47 GMT

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's 11-day visit to select African nations wraps up this week, her longest overseas mission as America's top diplomat. Ernest Aryeetey says African nations view Secretary Clinton’s trip so early in her term as a smart move, adding her visit instills a sense of optimism about U.S.-Africa relations.

Political and Economic Woes Thwart Return to Normalcy in Iran

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following his return from Tehran, Djavad Salehi-Isfahani speaks to NPR’s Marketplace about festering political and economic discontent in Iran following the June elections. Bringing the country’s economy in for a soft landing will pose a significant challenge to the government, he notes, as Iranian citizens struggle to get back to their daily lives.

African Growth and Opportunity Act: A Case of Vanishing Benefits

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In August, high-level delegations of government, private sector and civil society representatives from the United States and sub-Saharan Africa met in Nairobi for the eighth annual forum on the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). Mwangi Kimenyi reflects on the success of AGOA and how the forum can be a chance to focus on making Africa competitive.

Climate Crisis, Credit Crisis: Overcoming Obstacles to Build a Climate Resilient World

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 08:00:00 GMT

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July 30, 2009, 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM
August 01, 2009, 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM

Forty experts gathered for the Brookings Blum Roundtable to discuss the impact of climate change and the global financial crisis on the world's poor. The experts formed recommendations for global leaders as they prepare to meet in Copenhagen in December to address solutions to global climate change.

Climate Change and Vulnerable Societies

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kemal Derviş testified before the House Committee on Foreign Affairs on America’s critical role in supporting climate change adaptation in the world’s most vulnerable communities. Derviş stressed that although global economies are facing serious financial challenges, time is of the essence to protect those most affected. He provided recommendations to enact globally acceptable and enforceable policies to tackle climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Aid Coordination on the Ground: Are Joint Country Assistance Strategies the Answer?

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The dilemma of what to do about aid fragmentation remains a challenge. In a new working paper, Johannes Linn discusses comprehensive approaches to aid coordination and how joint country assistance strategies could be an effective strategy.

President Obama's Agenda Needs Greater Focus on Global Development

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Although the Obama administration faces serious challenges at home and abroad, Homi Kharas, Johannes Linn and Noam Unger call for greater attention to the world's poor. The experts provide recommendations on how the Obama administration can begin to improve America's critical role in global development.

Latin America's Infrastructure: Roads to the Future

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 09:00:00 GMT

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July 21, 2009, 9:00 AM to 12:20 PM

On July 21, the Latin America Initiative at Brookings and the Andean Development Corporation (CAF) hosted a discussion of CAF’s recent report titled “Roads to the Future: Management of Infrastructure in Latin America.”

Effective Development Assistance Through Competition

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It is now generally accepted that development interventions can only be successful and sustainable if they are accepted by stakeholders and implemented in accordance with local institutions, culture and norms. In this policy brief, Clifford Zinnes, answering the demand for foreign aid alternatives, assesses a new class of "tournament" approaches that promise to improve on the lackluster performance of conventional methods.

Target the Drug Lords in Afghanistan, Not the Farmers

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Vanda Felbab-Brown writes that the new U.S. counternarcotics strategy in Afghanistan represents a courageous and welcome shift in American policy. Felbab-Brown believes focusing on legal alternatives for farmers and emphasizing rural development will breed success in reducing illicit economies as well as bolster the larger counterinsurgency operation.

Crisis in Pakistan: Educate Women and Girls for Long-term Solutions

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pakistan’s humanitarian crisis brings a sharp focus on the need for long-term socio-economic development in the Northern region. In the Conflict Resolution and Prevention Forum, Rebecca Winthrop addressed the humanitarian crisis in Pakistan and called for further innovation and investment of education for girls and women.

Geithner and the New Middle East Economic Agenda

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As U.S. Secretary Treasury Geithner concludes his first visit to the Middle East, Navtej Dhillon argues for a new agenda which links U.S. efforts to reduce its dependency on foreign oil to the Middle East’s challenge of building diversified economies which provide a better future for the region’s citizens.

Ghana: Obama Visits a Hopeful Nation on a Troubled Continent

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ghanaians welcomed President Obama’s visit in July, making it the only African stop after his European trip. Ghana, regarded as a “beacon of democracy” in Africa, still has room for growth with 40 percent of its people living in poverty. Richard Joseph argues that Ghana could lead a new wave of accelerated and sustainable development and that Obama's support could inspire a transformation across the continent.

Building A Basis For Success in Afghanistan

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

While many of the military objectives have been determined in Afghanistan, Michael O'Hanlon believes there are many crucial decisions ahead regarding economic matters. O'Hanlon explores options ranging from increased foreign aid to developing free-trade agreements, and he offers suggestions for the challenges ahead.

G8 Africa Action Plan: Enhance Strategies for Development

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

African development has been a top agenda item at previous G8 Summits, including the creation of the Africa Action Plan and increased financial commitments to support economic growth. Although the continent has seen some progress, Mwangi Kimenyi argues that more should be done and provides specific strategies for more effective development.

Governance Matters VIII: Aggregate and Individual Governance Indicators, 1996-2008

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Kaufmann, Aart Kraay and Massimo Mastruzzi release Governance Matters VIII: Governance Indicators for 1996-2008. By updating the Worldwide Governance Indicators, the authors measure institutional quality, governance and the investment climate across 212 countries worldwide to show that good governance has a strong, positive impact on development.

After the Iranian Uprising

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Looking past Iran’s recent election crisis, growing trade and budget deficits will hamper Ahmadinejad’s second term and his penchant for redistributionist policies, Djavad Salehi-Isfahani warns. While the administration will face pressure to continue expansionist policies, Salehi-Isfahani predicts that Iranians will pay the price through high inflation and low growth.

Governance Matters 2009: Learning From Over a Decade of the Worldwide Governance Indicators

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Policy analysts, civil society groups and aid donors agree that good governance is critical for sustainable economic development. Yet, improving governance and fighting corruption is not always a priority, highlighting serious challenges in global economics. Daniel Kaufmann, Aart Kraay and Massimo Mastruzzi, authors of Governance Matters VIII and the updated Worldwide Governance Indicators, analyze evidence from 212 countries that shows good governance has a strong, positive impact on development.

The Many Crises of Iranian Youth

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With Iran at a political impasse, Navtej Dhillon and Daniel Egel write that the youth of Iran, who account for nearly 40 percent of the voting age population, have been profoundly disappointed by the promises of the Islamic Republic and are yearning for opportunities for economic advancement.

How the Economy Plays into Iran's Turmoil

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In an interview on NPR’s Marketplace, Djavad Salehi-Isfahani reports from Iran that the post-election political stalemate has put a halt to much economic and social activity in Tehran. Winning back the full participation and confidence of Iran’s “technical elite”—its doctors, engineers, and lawyers—will be a grave challenge for the new government.

An Education Stimulus for the Developing World

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In this economic crisis many low-income countries are forced to cut back on vital investments in education. David Gartner urges that new guidance by Congress to the IMF could make a real difference in giving low-income countries the ability to invest in their own children.

Iran's Election: Economic Fears and Discontents

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Djavad Salehi-Isfahani continues to monitor post-election unrest from Tehran. He writes that deep social and economic divisions will continue to weaken the fabric of Iranian society, and will present a challenge for the next government as it attempts to reverse growing inequality in the country.

The Global Economic Crisis and Failed States

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Already precariously dependent on commodities before 2008, the world's fragile states have been critically hit by the global financial crisis. In a recent article in Foreign Policy Magazine, Homi Kharas notes that a number of them are likely to suffer declines in real per capita income through 2010 as a result of the global recession and commodity price declines.

International Policy Workshop on Aid Effectiveness

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 15, 2009, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
June 16, 2009, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

From June 15-16, 2009, around 40 participants gathered at a workshop in Berlin to discuss aid effectiveness. The diversity of the group reflects the changing and increasingly diverse landscape that is reshaping the key issues in aid effectiveness.

Democratic Elections and Coalition Government? A View from Kenya

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 09:00:00 GMT

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June 12, 2009, 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM

On June 12, the Africa Growth Initiative at Brookings hosted Dr. Constance Freeman, regional director for East and Southern Africa of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) in Nairobi who led a roundtable discussion on the recent elections in Kenya.

Pakistan's Displaced Girls and Women—an Opportunity for Education

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Since November 2008, the fighting between the Pakistan government and Taliban militants has displaced over two and a half million people. In the midst of this crisis, Rebecca Winthrop identifies a window of opportunity to improve the education situation of girls and women, one that will sow long-term benefits for the region’s recovery and development.

New Global Trade Structures and the New Role of the U.S. Economy

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The response to the economic crisis by President Obama and American consumers indicate that global trade structures may be permanently altered. CNAPS Guest Scholar Naoki Abe explains that the government’s massive intervention in the economy will not be permanent, but that it must set the stage for the U.S. and other advanced economies to increase exports.

Obama's Education Promise for the Muslim World—Rhetoric or Reality?

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In his recent speech in Cairo, Egypt, President Obama signaled a new path for supporting crucial social and economic development for millions of Muslims around the world. Rebecca Winthrop recommends four elements necessary for an effective education partnership between the U.S. and the Muslim world.

Obama's Call for Educating Women

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama's words in his historic Cairo address have raised the hopes of millions of girls around the world. David Gartner discusses how the president's call for educating women is a commitment that can be fulfilled through the creation of a Global Fund for Education.

Middle East's Dual Challenge: Youth and the Economy

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama presented his much anticipated speech in Cairo at a time when the Middle East faces the dual challenge of a peaking youth population and a slumping economy. On NPR’s Marketplace, Navtej Dhillon describes how the region can address chronic youth unemployment through a larger reform agenda, including social sector investment and open dialogue between the state and its citizens.

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.

Change We Can Believe In? The Muslim World, America, and Obama's Promise

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Despite the pervasive challenges of poverty and illiteracy, the two strongest ties that bind the U.S. and the Muslim world are still military aid and oil. In the wake of President Obama's historic speech to the Muslim world from Cairo on June 4, Navtej Dhillon, Laurence Chandy and Geoffrey Gertz argue that a new foundation for engagement must include instruments such as trade, investment and human development.

Tracking the Global Financial Crisis: An Analysis of the IMF's World Economic Outlook

Tue, 26 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The IMF's flagship publication, the World Economic Outlook (WEO), marks the most extensive effort to measure the health of the global economy since the outbreak of the financial crisis. Analyzing the WEO's projections, the Wolfensohn Center's Laurence Chandy, Geoffrey Gertz and Johannes Linn examine the countries and regions hit worst by the downturn and assess the lasting impact on the global economy.

Will the Singh Government Transform India Into a Modern Economy?

Tue, 26 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As Manmohan Singh begins his second term as India's Prime Minister, many challenges lay ahead. Arvind Panagariya recommends that to push vital economic reforms ahead, Mr. Singh's government must focus on both the business and rural sectors.

Economic Transformation and Developmental Governance in Nigeria: The Promise of the Obama Era

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Nigeria, which has long struggled with governance issues and poverty, is in need of a profound economic transformation. In the inaugural BusinessDay Scholars in Society Forum in Lagos, Nigeria, Richard Joseph addressed the different challenges and opportunities that lie ahead on the country's path to economic growth and prosperity.

Diplomacy and Development in the 21st Century: A Conversation with Senator John Kerry

Thu, 21 May 2009 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 21, 2009, 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM

Experts have called for U.S. foreign assistance—and specifically the U.S. effort to support global development—to be reformed in order to become more strategic, coherent and effective. On May 21, the Brookings Institution hosted Senator John Kerry (D-Mass.), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, for a discussion of U.S. foreign assistance reform and the importance of foreign relations authorization.

Institutions, Markets and Youth in the Middle East During Global Downturn

Wed, 20 May 2009 15:03:57 GMT

Reformers in the Middle East are facing testing times, explains Navtej Dhillon, summarizing the findings of a new Middle East Youth Initiative report. Will existing challenges of youth unemployment and exclusion worsen, or will countries enact the necessary reforms to emerge stronger from the economic slowdown?

Thresholds in the Process of International Financial Integration

Tue, 19 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The financial crisis has re-ignited the debate about the merits of financial globalization and its implications for growth, especially for developing countries. In a new paper, Eswar Prasad and co-authors present a framework for certain economic “thresholds,” such as institutional quality, that once met, can increase the benefits of financial openness.

Stuck in the Middle: Is Fiscal Policy Failing the Middle Class?

Fri, 15 May 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 15, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

The economic well-being of the middle class can be crucial to the success of economic policies in both developed and developing countries. Yet many public policies are not aimed at the middle class. On May 15, Brookings hosted a discussion on the need to assess how fiscal policy affects the middle class around the world.

Shanghai as China’s Center for International Finance and Shipping

Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Throughout the 1990s, China’s official media referred to Shanghai as the “head of the dragon" because of its pivotal role in rapid economic growth across China. The term became less common as a balanced regional development strategy took over under Hu Jinto. Cheng Li examines the issue as China once again—this time pushed by the global economic crisis—sets sights on making Shanghai a "global financial and shipping center.”

Missed by the Boom, Hurt by the Bust: Making Markets Work for Young People in the Middle East

Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new Middle East Youth Initiative report is the first of its kind to assess the early risks faced by young people during the economic downturn, calling on policy makers to help prevent an intensified jobs crisis in the region.

Democracy Promotion Under Obama: Lessons from the Middle East Partnership Initiative

Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Tamara Cofman Wittes and Andrew Masloski argue that the Obama administration should invest in the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) to advance America’s interests in a more stable, progressive and prosperous Middle East. By examining the record of MEPI, Wittes and Masloski show how it has overcome early deficits to create a small-scale, successful model of “democracy diplomacy” that integrates foreign assistance with foreign policy.

Strengthening America's Global Development Partnerships

Wed, 13 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the Obama administration and Congress work to reform an outdated foreign assistance system, they have an opportunity to adapt official U.S. efforts to more effectively and efficiently support global development in partnership with businesses and civil society. Jane Nelson and Noam Unger recommend ways the U.S. government can better position itself within the 21st century global development ecosystem.

Creating Value for Business and Society

Wed, 13 May 2009 09:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 13, 2009, 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM

The global financial crisis and the actions of a handful of individuals and companies have significantly eroded the public trust in corporations—in the United States and across the globe. Brookings and the Clinton Global Initiative hosted a discussion on corporate philanthropy and social responsibility in the midst of the economic downturn. The discussion featured former President William J. Clinton; Coca-Cola Chairman Muhtar Kent; Patricia A. Woertz, CEO and president of Archer Daniels Midland Company; and Kemal Derviş, vice president and director of Global Economy and Development at Brookings.

The U.S.-Japan Alliance: Beyond Northeast Asia

Fri, 08 May 2009 09:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 08, 2009, 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM

A transformed alliance of the world’s two largest economies—Japan and the United States—could have far-reaching effects on issues such as trade, development, climate change and international security. On May 8, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies at Brookings and the Slavic Research Center at Hokkaido University hosted a forum to examine the U.S.-Japan alliance and its potential for addressing issues beyond the Northeast Asia region.

Governance, Growth and Development in Afghanistan

Tue, 05 May 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 05, 2009, 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM

On May 5, the Brookings Institution hosted His Excellency President Hamid Karzai for a discussion of the Afghan perspective on a new strategy for governance, institution-building and economic development in light of the upcoming presidential election in Afghanistan.

Scaling Up Early Child Development in the Developing World

Mon, 04 May 2009 08:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 04, 2009, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
May 05, 2009, 8:30 AM to 4:15 PM

The Early Child Development Initiative at the Wolfensohn Center for Development at Brookings hosted a two-day conference to feature the project’s first five country case studies on the scale up of Early Child Development (ECD) in the developing world. Country authors presented their findings on the process of scaling up ECD in Cuba, Madagascar, South Africa, Macedonia and the Philippines.

Action on Aid: Steps Toward Making Aid More Effective

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

World leaders at the G-20 London Summit and the World Bank and IMF spring meetings responded to the urgent needs of the world’s poorest countries impacted by the global economic crisis with new financial commitments and pledges. Homi Kharas argues that full recovery from the crisis and future successful development ultimately requires reducing aid volatility and enhancing aid flow coordination.

A Case Study of Aid Effectiveness in Ethiopia

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

International aid has significantly impacted Ethiopia's development initiatives since the end of World War II, and Ethiopia has been a major recipient of foreign aid in recent times. Project consultant Getnet Alemu examines the country’s aid flows—predominantly assisting Ethiopia's health sector—and argues that although aid has been instrumental in the country's development, donor coordination has been challenging.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is Not Alone in its Financial Struggles

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Transit agencies across the United States are facing service cutbacks and fare increases in order to close their budget gaps. The largest, New York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), is no exception. Robert Puentes and Emilia Istrate offer recommendations for closing the MTA’s budget gap.

Civil-Military Relations, Fostering Development, and Expanding Civilian Capacity

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Critical stabilization and reconstruction missions abroad must not only be viewed through the lenses of short-term goals or military operations, but as a key step in supporting sustainable economic development. In a workshop report, Noam Unger and Frederick Barton explore ways to rebalance American statecraft by strengthening civilian stabilization and development capacity within the U.S. government.

Financial Globalization and Economic Policies

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In a new working paper, Eswar Prasad and co-authors examine the economic policies that can help developing countries manage the process of financial globalization and recommend a tailored approach to balance the risks and benefits of financial integration.

The Summit of the Americas and Regional Development Banks

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 09:51:07 GMT

Mauricio Cárdenas, director of the Latin America Initiative, says the focus of the fifth Summit of the Americas will be the global economic crisis. He also explains that the nations need to agree on strengthening regional development banks and that certain countries need open trade.

President Obama and the Summit of the Americas

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Key differences persist among the many countries of Latin America and the Caribbean. In the leadup to the fifth Summit of the Americas, Abraham Lowenthal says Obama would do well to remember Ronald Reagan's comment on returning from his first trip to South America as president: "These Latin American countries are all very different from each other."

Previewing the Summit of the Americas

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 14, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM

The Obama administration faces a number of challenges in Latin America. The fifth Summit of the Americas offers leaders of the Western Hemisphere an opportunity to partner on a new and robust agenda that spans global economic, social, energy and climate change issues. On April 14, Brookings experts discussed the critical issues facing the leaders attending the summit and proposed recommendations for action.

The Fifth Summit of the Americas: Recommendations for Action

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Leaders of the Western Hemisphere gathered in Trinidad and Tobago on April 17-19, 2009 for the fifth Summit of the Americas. In a series of commentary articles focused on the summit's agenda and key challenges, Brookings experts discuss critical economic, social, energy and climate change issues facing the leaders attending the summit and propose recommendations for policy action.

Brookings: Topics - Development

The Global Food Crisis: "The Silent Tsunami"

Intra-Party Democracy in China: Should We Take It Seriously?

Sustaining Growth in Sub-Saharan Africa

Corruption Index Today, Election Tomorrow, Aid Revamp the Day After?

Tackling HIV/AIDS in Africa: From Knowledge to Behavior Change

The U.S. Should Encourage Structural Transformation Strategies in Africa

Obama's Kenya: A Potential Political Minefield

Generation in Waiting : The Unfulfilled Promise of Young People in the Middle East

21st Century Global Governance: Broadening Participation in International Institutions

Teaching and Learning in Emergencies, Chronic Crises, and Early Recovery

Iraq's Economy Needs More Than Security

Tracking the Global Economic Recovery: Insights on the IMF's New World Economic Outlook

U.S. Counternarcotics Strategy in Afghanistan

U.S. Private Philanthropy

Presidents Obama and George H.W. Bush: Building Bridges Through Service

Expanding the Financial Services Frontier: Lessons From Mobile Phone Banking in Kenya

Africa's (Large)4 Problem

Case Study on Aid Effectiveness in Tajikistan

Do Philanthropic Citizens Behave Like Governments?

No Big Blank Checks for Afghanistan

Contemporary Development Challenges in Kenya

Iran Sanctions: Who Really Wins?

Nigerian Foreign Minister Chief Ojo Maduekwe on the Nigeria-U.S. Partnership

Fighting Radicalism, not 'Terrorism': Root Causes of an International Actor Redefined

The 0.85 Percent Solution for Low-Income Countries

Universal Education is an Investment for America

Why We Can't Go Small In Afghanistan

Three Reasons the Americans Should Support Global Education

Combating Judicial Corruption in Uganda

President Obama and the Spirit of Global Development Partnership

Tie Troops to Progress on Afghanistan’s Corruption

The Middle East and the New Global Economy: Revisiting Egypt in the Wake of the Downturn

Obama's Commitment to the World's Children

China on the Road to Prosperity

G-20 Summit: Recovering from the Crisis

Climate Change Policy: Recommendations to Reach Consensus

Four Ways to Help Africa?

What's Right With Afghanistan

Afghanistan: Measuring Progress Toward Peace

A Global Fund for Education: Achieving Education for All

Quality and Coordination of Official Development Aid in Pakistan

Democracy In Egypt: Necessary Ingredient in a U.S.-Egyptian Partnership

A Nigerian-American Partnership Beckons

Making Africa a Priority in U.S. Foreign Assistance

Africa and the Obama Administration

Political and Economic Woes Thwart Return to Normalcy in Iran

African Growth and Opportunity Act: A Case of Vanishing Benefits

Climate Crisis, Credit Crisis: Overcoming Obstacles to Build a Climate Resilient World

Climate Change and Vulnerable Societies

Aid Coordination on the Ground: Are Joint Country Assistance Strategies the Answer?

President Obama's Agenda Needs Greater Focus on Global Development

Latin America's Infrastructure: Roads to the Future

Effective Development Assistance Through Competition

Target the Drug Lords in Afghanistan, Not the Farmers

Crisis in Pakistan: Educate Women and Girls for Long-term Solutions

Geithner and the New Middle East Economic Agenda

Ghana: Obama Visits a Hopeful Nation on a Troubled Continent

Building A Basis For Success in Afghanistan

G8 Africa Action Plan: Enhance Strategies for Development

Governance Matters VIII: Aggregate and Individual Governance Indicators, 1996-2008

After the Iranian Uprising

Governance Matters 2009: Learning From Over a Decade of the Worldwide Governance Indicators

The Many Crises of Iranian Youth

How the Economy Plays into Iran's Turmoil

An Education Stimulus for the Developing World

Iran's Election: Economic Fears and Discontents

The Global Economic Crisis and Failed States

International Policy Workshop on Aid Effectiveness

Democratic Elections and Coalition Government? A View from Kenya

Pakistan's Displaced Girls and Women—an Opportunity for Education

New Global Trade Structures and the New Role of the U.S. Economy

Obama's Education Promise for the Muslim World—Rhetoric or Reality?

Obama's Call for Educating Women

Middle East's Dual Challenge: Youth and the Economy

International Volunteer Service: A Smart Way to Build Bridges

Change We Can Believe In? The Muslim World, America, and Obama's Promise

Tracking the Global Financial Crisis: An Analysis of the IMF's World Economic Outlook

Will the Singh Government Transform India Into a Modern Economy?

Economic Transformation and Developmental Governance in Nigeria: The Promise of the Obama Era

Africa's (Large)⁴ Problem