Brookings: Topics - Global Economics

China on the World Stage: Climate Change, Regional Blocs and Resource Investment

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 09:00:00 GMT

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November 30, 2009, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

The world and China’s place in it have transformed over the past year in response to pressure from the most severe global financial crisis in decades. While the economic crisis accelerated China’s emergence as a global superpower, it has yet to fully assess the consequences of its new position on the world stage. On November 30, Brookings and the Australian National University will co-host a discussion on China’s emerging position as a global power.

The Global Food Crisis: "The Silent Tsunami"

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:30:00 GMT

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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.

Fiscal Policy Rules and Latin America: Lessons from the Crisis

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Fiscal policy has been mentioned as a key driver of the resilience that many large Latin American countries have seen during the global financial crisis. Mauricio Cárdenas and José Tessada examine Chile's fiscal rules and caution that a comprehensive fiscal strategy cannot focus solely on the short- and medium-term evolution of fiscal policy.

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.

The Middle East and the New Global Economy: Economic Recovery and a New Government in Lebanon

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Tarik Yousef and the Middle East Youth Initiative speak with Jad Chaaban about recent economic and political developments in Lebanon, where Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri ended months of negotiations by announcing a new unity cabinet earlier this week. With impressive overall growth projected for 2009, Lebanon’s economy may emerge stronger from the global crisis if the new government can agree on needed reforms.

Protecting Putin's Protection Racket

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When Putin took power in 2000, he established a protection deal among powerful business owners. Clifford Gaddy and Barry Ickes discuss the intricacies of this arrangement and what message a recent suit against one of the country’s leading business newspapers is meant to send.

An Awkward Dance: China and the United States

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

While the economic entanglements between the U.S. and China have increased over the last decade, so has the tension. With President Obama visiting China and other Asian nations, Brookings expert Eswar Prasad and Grace Gu of Cornell University discuss the tightening embrace between the two countries—in terms of flows of goods and services, financial capital and people—and the implications.

Taiwan's Economy: Recovery with Chinese Characteristics

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the inaugural installment of CNAPS’s Taiwan-U.S. Quarterly Analysis series, Terry Cooke explores the causes and effects of Taiwan’s pursuit of economic normalization with China. Articles in this series will be written by leading experts on the U.S.-Taiwan relationship and will contain in-depth analysis of bilateral and multilateral policy challenges for Taipei and Washington.

Political Polarization in Latin America

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

One of the values measured in the 2005 World Values Survey was political ideology. Mauricio Cárdenas discusses the concept of political cohesion in Latin America and how ideology and political polarization can impact economic growth.

The Scouting Report: Previewing President Obama's First Trip to China

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:30:00 GMT

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November 04, 2009, 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM

China’s continued ascension presents policy challenges for both Beijing and Washington. President Barack Obama made his first trip to China from November 15-18. Kenneth Lieberthal and Fred Barbash, Politico's senior editor, took questions about the president’s trip to China in this edition of the Scouting Report.

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.

India and a Carbon Deal

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

There is an emerging consensus among governments that aggressive climate change mitigation would be desirable, though they remain divided about how the associated burden should be shared. Urjit Patel argues that a burden sharing criterion which involves emissions permit allocation to each developing country would be a fair deal and discusses how this would affect India.

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.

The Global Economic Agenda: Issues Paper for the Washington Roundtable

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following a September 18 roundtable focused on the global economic agenda for the fall of 2009, Domenico Lombardi reflects on discussions at this forum, which served to enhance engagement and exchanges between experts from the U.S. and other G-20 countries on the critical issues to be addressed at these highlevel international gatherings.

The Global Economic Crisis of 2008: What Happened? What’s Next?

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 18:00:00 GMT

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October 27, 2009, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

On October 27, the Brookings Doha Center hosted a luncheon with Glenn H. Hutchins, co-founder and co-chief executive of Silver Lake Partners, and a trustee of the Brookings Institution, on the build-up to the global financial crisis, highlighting the important policy implications of the global recession. Hady Amr, director of the Brookings Doha Center, moderated the discussion which was attended by leading members of Qatar’s business and academic communities.

Jean Pisani-Ferry on the Transatlantic Economy After the Global Financial Crisis

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 17:00:00 GMT

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October 26, 2009, 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM

On October 26, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings hosted Jean Pisani-Ferry, a leading French economist, to deliver the Sixth Annual Raymond Aron Lecture. Mr. Pisani-Ferry assessed the impact of the global financial crisis on the closely intertwined economies of Europe and the United States, and their influence on the world economy.

Climate Change and Latin America: The Long Way to Copenhagen

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Only a few regions in the world are more affected by climate change than Latin America. However the region lacks a common perspective and will not be heard in the U.S. Congress or in international deliberations in Copenhagen unless it unifies as a strong voice. Mauricio Cárdenas proposes a formal subgroup of several Latin American countries for cooperation on climate change and points to specific commitments they should consider.

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. 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.

Latin America: Time for Reform, Not for Complacency

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Latin America, a region that has faced both challenges and opportunities during the financial crisis, has had more economic growth than other areas of the world. Mauricio Cárdenas discusses the forces behind this economic success and the need for the region to seize this crisis as an opportunity to make important reforms to solve longstanding problems.

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.

"Coping" with the G-20: Italy and the Challenge of Global Governance

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Replacing the G8 with the G-20 poses a delicate issue for smaller G8 countries, such as Italy. Some fear this move will dilute their perceived role and influence in the world stage. Domenico Lombardi discusses the dynamics of the G-20's more diverse membership and what role Italy can realistically pursue in an "enlarged" global governance setting.

Self-Enforcing Trade : Developing Countries and WTO Dispute Settlement

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Self-Enforcing Trade examines the WTO's "extended litigation process," highlighting the tangle of international economics, law, and politics that participants must master. He identifies the costs that prevent developing countries from disentangling the self-enforcement process and fully using the WTO system as part of their growth strategies.

Nobel Prize in Economics: Illusions From Tinbergen to Keynes

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Kaufmann provides a different outlook on the Nobel Prize in Economics and illustrates that today’s economy—including the large stimulus plans, social welfare, and infrastructure investment—relate closely to the ideas of John Maynard Keynes. This prompts Kaufmann to ask, should he win the Nobel Prize?

Global Macroeconomic Imbalances: G-20 Leaders Must Back up Their Rhetoric with Deeds

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The financial crisis has taught us a painful lesson that global macroeconomic imbalances can wreak enormous damage on the world economy. At the G-20 Pittsburgh Summit, leaders committed to a framework that would prevent further damage. Eswar Prasad proposes a Special Drawing Rights scheme that allows G-20 countries to make enforceable policy commitments.

The G-20, the "Istanbul Decisions" and the Way Forward

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The fall global economic agenda is well underway with the completion of the G-20 Pittsburgh Summit and the IMF and World Bank Annual Meetings in Istanbul. Kemal Derviş discusses the key themes coming out of these “historic” meetings, highlighting the essential roles of both the informal and formal channels of global economic governance and the way forward after the crisis.

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.

Growth After the Storm? A Longer Run Perspective on the Global Economy

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

During a lecture at the IMF-World Bank 2009 Annual Meetings, Kemal Derviş discussed global growth prospects following the economic crisis and the role that supply side factors and macroeconomic management can play.

Contemporary Development Challenges in Kenya

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 09:30:00 GMT

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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.

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.

U.S. and the G-20 Summit: Perspectives on Global Leadership

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Pittsburgh G-20 Summit was a significant milestone for President Obama's leadership role in the international community. Colin Bradford reflects on what the Summit meant for the United States and how it was shaped by the president's involvement.

Modelling the Global Financial Crisis

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Warwick McKibbin and Andrew Stoeckel use modelling to explore the economic effects of a global financial crisis where businesses and households unexpectedly switch between a pessimistic view on risk and then to a more moderate temporary scenario.

Non-G-20 Developing Countries and the G-20 Summit: Perspectives on Global Leadership

Sun, 27 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

What did the Pittsburgh G-20 Summit offer non-G-20 developing countries? Homi Kharas examines the Summit talks and how the interests of developing countries in this group were not adequately addressed.

The Middle East and the New Global Economy: Development and Diversification in Saudi Arabia

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Saudi Arabia will join other Group of Twenty (G-20) nations this week to address the global economic recovery. In a discussion with the Middle East Youth Initiative, expert economist Hassan Hakimian explains that the government’s stimulus budget has helped to cushion the country from the worst effects of the recession. Yet, the long-term challenges of developing the non-oil, private sector and harnessing human capital remain.

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.

The Scouting Report Web Chat: Previewing the Pittsburgh G-20 Summit

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

At 12:30 on September 23, Colin Bradford, former chief economist at the U.S. Agency for International Development, and Fred Barbash, senior editor at Politico, answered your questions about the G-20 Summit and global economic recovery.

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.

Washington Roundtable on the Global Economic Agenda

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 08:30:00 GMT

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September 18, 2009, 8:30 AM to 5:45 PM

On September 18, Brookings—jointly with the Asian Development Bank Institute and the Inter-American Development Bank—co-hosted a roundtable focusing on the global economic agenda for the fall of 2009. The roundtable served as a forum to enhance engagement and exchanges between experts from the U.S. and other G-20 countries on the critical issues to be addressed at these highlevel international gatherings.

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.

Monetary Policy and Financial Stability: An Address by José de Gregorio

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

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September 17, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

On September 17, the Brookings Institution will host Dr. José de Gregorio, governor of the Central Bank of Chile. Governor de Gregorio will outline his views on how best to structure monetary policy and regulatory frameworks in emerging markets to promote macroeconomic and financial stability.

A Dangerous Game of Trade 'Chicken'

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Obama administration's decision to impose tariffs on imports of Chinese tires has been met with a swift and sharp response by China. Eswar Prasad discusses the implications of protectionist measures and warns this U.S.-China spat could have global consequences.

The Outlook for the U.S. Economy: Echoes of Japan’s Lost Decade

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The panic is over, writes CNAPS Guest Scholar Naoki Abe. The outlook for the U.S. economy has brightened as the worst period for financial institutions is passing. However, the lesson from Japan’s “lost decade” is that full-fledged economic recovery requires sustained financial health and bullish economic momentum; while the financial panic is over, financial hardships are not over yet.

Could a Resurgent Global Economy Relapse into Global Imbalances?

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A year after the bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers and the ensuing near collapse of the U.S. financial system, Eswar Prasad reflects on what led to these circumstances and urges for coordinated solutions to avoid further global imbalances.

Is the G-20 Summit a Step Toward a New Global Economic Order?

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Colin Bradford and Johannes Linn argue that the global crisis has moved the United States, along with the rest of the world, toward a new global economic order, with the G-20 summit as one of the principal manifestations of the new global governance system. In addition to the financial crisis, they say that the summit can also serve as a platform for addressing other pressing global issues, including trade, climate change, energy and food security and reform of global institutions.

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.

The Potential Impact of the Global Financial Crisis on World Trade

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Brookings expert Warwick McKibbin and CAMA Visiting Fellow, Andrew Stoeckel, use modelling to explore the implications of the large increase in fiscal deficits and the implications of a global trade war in response to the financial crisis.

Obama Must Resist the Anti-Trade Mobs

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Obama Administration faces a new trade dilemma — the possibility of imposing new import restrictions on Chinese tyres. Chad P. Bown discusses the element of protectionism and offers ways in which the U.S. can address this issue.

Monetary Policy Challenges for Emerging Market Economies

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The debate between theorists and practitioners on monetary policy challenges for emerging market economies continues. This paper by Brookings expert Eswar Prasad, Gill Hammond, and Ravi Kanbur addresses the dialogue between academics and policymakers on this issue and sets an agenda for further research.

Singh’s Big Chance to Unchain the Indian Economy

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Although India’s economy has weathered the global financial crisis quite well, Eswar Prasad says the present political and economic circumstances in India give Prime Minister Manmohan Singh a chance to deliver real reforms, which are crucial for sustained growth that does not leave behind much of the population.

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."

Protectionism Exposed

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Chad Bown examines a new set of data from the World Bank's Global Antidumping Database to find emerging trends in trade policy and protectionism. As global economies continue to feel the effect of the financial crisis, protectionist measures have increased 31% and trends point to a new wave of global protectionism.

Rebalancing Growth In Asia Depends on Chinese Consumer Spending

Sun, 02 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Eswar Prasad argues that a key component in restoring overall global financial health is to fix growth imbalances in Asia's emerging markets, especially China's excessive dependence on export- and investment-led growth. Prasad encourages financial market development in China to increase private consumption to make growth more balanced and thus help stabilize the world financial and economic systems.

Climate Change, Trade, and Competitiveness: Is a Collision Inevitable? : Brookings Trade Forum 2008/2009

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Brookings Trade Forum provides comprehensive analysis on current and emerging issues of international trade and macroeconomics. Practitioners and academics contribute to each volume, with papers that provide an in-depth look at a particular topic. The 2008/2009 edition focuses on climate policy and its impact on trade.

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.

Protectionism Continues its Climb

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Chad P. Bown finds that although the G-20 committed to reduce trade protectionism and barriers following the start of the financial crisis, almost all of them have turned to trade “remedy” policy instruments in response to domestic industry demands for protection from import competition.

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.

Sky’s the Limit? National and Global Implications of China’s Reserve Accumulation

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

While the financial crisis slowed the pace of foreign exchange reserve accumulation in late 2008, growth has recently taken off again. China announced its stock of reserves crossed the astounding milestone of $2 trillion this spring. Eswar Prasad and Isaac Sorkin analyze the sources and patterns of reserve accumulation and examine what implications this reserve buildup has for the Chinese and global economies.

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.”

Brazil in the Global Crisis: Still a Rising Economic Superpower?

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

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July 13, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

On July 13, the Latin America Initiative at Brookings hosted a discussion on the recently released book, Brazil as an Economic Superpower? Understanding Brazil’s Changing Role in the Global Economy (Brookings Institution Press, 2009), edited by Brookings Political Economy Fellow Leonardo Martinez-Diaz and Lael Brainard, former vice president and director of Global Economy and Development at Brookings.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Latin America and the Economic Crisis: An Address by Chilean President Michelle Bachelet

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 10:00:00 GMT

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June 23, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:50 AM

On June 23, the Brookings Institution hosted Her Excellency Michelle Bachelet, president of the Republic of Chile, for a discussion of the Latin American countries and the economic measures they are taking to cope with the global financial crisis.

Iran's Economy: Trouble in Tehran

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Djavad Salehi-Isfahani assesses Iran's recent economic performance in Foreign Policy magazine, arguing that the country’s policymakers have amassed a mixed record. While government spending in the past year was based on safe estimates of oil prices, high levels of social spending will be hard to maintain and the private sector will struggle to revive the Iranian economy in 2009.

Foresight USA Symposium

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:30:00 GMT

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June 18, 2009, 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM
June 19, 2009, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

On June 18 and 19, 2009, the Foresight project held its second major regional symposium in Washington, D.C. Organized by the Alfred Herrhausen Society in partnership with Policy Network and the Brookings Institution, it provided a unique opportunity to advance the task of forging a new global consensus on the shape of the emerging world order and the role of the United States within it.

Financial Markets and Emerging Economies - The Decoupling Debate Is Back!

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the global financial crisis persists, some believe that emerging markets have become less reliant on advanced economies. Eswar Prasad and M. Ayhan Kose examine certain aspects of the decoupling hypothesis to see what they indicate for the future of the global economy.

International Policy Workshop on Aid Effectiveness

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 08:00:00 GMT

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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.

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.

The Economic Impact of Climate Change Reduction Strategies

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 10:30:00 GMT

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June 08, 2009, 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM

On June 8, the Brookings Institution hosted a preview of a forthcoming report on the economic impact of climate change reduction strategies by Brookings experts Warwick McKibbin, Adele Morris and Peter Wilcoxen.

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.

The Global Economic Crisis and Mexico: Challenges for Recovery

Thu, 28 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As part of the "Global Economic Crisis" study series, Martinez- Diaz spoke at the Center for National as part of a discussion focused on the impact of the global economic crisis on stability in Mexico and what that means for the United States. He outlined five crucial economic challenges facing the country that its leadership must address in order to stimulate a full and sustainable recovery.

Q&A: Geithner's First Trip to China

Thu, 28 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner's first trip to China will feature a range of discussions about global economic issues and the U.S.-China economic relationship. Eswar Prasad outlines some of the critical agenda items and the broader challenges facing these two closely intertwined economies.

Will China Lead the Global Economic Recovery?

Thu, 28 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

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May 28, 2009, 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM

On May 28, the Global Economy and Development program and the John L. Thornton China Center hosted a panel discussion on China's stimulus package and its implications for China and the world. Carlos Pascual gave introductory remarks, and Richard Bush moderated a panel of Brookings experts including Xiago Geng, Eswar Prasad, Cheng Li and Dennis Wilder.

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.

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.

The IMF’s Outlook for Latin America and the Caribbean

Thu, 21 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 21, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

Spillovers from a global crisis that began in advanced economies pose a severe test to Latin America and the Caribbean region. On May 21, the Latin America Initiative at Brookings hosted Nicolás Eyzaguirre, director of the IMF’s Western Hemisphere Department, and Steve Phillips, also of the IMF, as they presented this year’s Regional Economic Outlook: Western Hemisphere report.

The Political Implications of the Economic Crisis for the European Union

Wed, 20 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaisse assesses the risks of seeing the European Union or the Eurozone break up because of the economic crisis. Far from this outcome, Vaisse surveys the reasons why Europe will resist and predicts that it will eventually bounce back to become a stronger union

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.

The U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue

Fri, 15 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Engagement between Beijing and Washington operates on many levels but none is more critical than a regularized mechanism for strategic discussion by the top officials in economics and foreign policy. Dennis Wilder explores how dialogue should be carried out between the two countries during the Obama administration.

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.

The Transatlantic Partnership in a Post-Economic Crisis World: An Address by Valdis Zatlers, President of Latvia

Fri, 15 May 2009 10:00:00 GMT

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

While it is difficult to see beyond the current economic crisis, some reshuffling of global economic power is inevitable. On May 15, the Center on the United States and Europe (CUSE) at Brookings hosted Latvian President Valdis Zatlers for a discussion of the increased importance of the transatlantic partnership in the years ahead.

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.

Japanese Politics Today and the Impact on U.S.-Japan Relations

Thu, 14 May 2009 14:15:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 14, 2009, 2:15 PM to 4:00 PM

On May 14, CNAPS hosted Robert “Skipp” Orr, chairman of the board of the Panasonic Foundation, for a presentation entitled “Japanese Politics Today and the Impact on U.S.-Japan Relations.” Dr. Orr discussed the current state of affairs in Japanese politics, the upcoming general elections, and the economic climate in Japan.

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.

Protectionism on the Rise: A Report on the Use of Trade Remedies During the Global Financial Crisis

Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Despite G-20 promises to reduce trade protectionism and barriers, Chad P. Bown shows through new data and a new report that protectionism increased and spread 18.8 percent during the first quarter of 2009.

Global Economic Crisis: Prosperity and Politics in Lebanon

Mon, 04 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Navtej Dhillon speaks with Jad Chaaban, author of “The Costs of Youth Exclusion in the Middle East,” about the resilience of Lebanon’s economy during the global recession. With elections approaching, policymakers must protect recent fiscal gains, avoid debt increases, and ensure diverse jobs are available for Lebanon’s youthful electorate. An edited transcript follows.

The Swine Flu Outbreak and its Global Economic Impact

Mon, 04 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As swine flu continues to spread in the United States and globally, fears of a pandemic have contributed to stock market decline as many industries suffer from a lack of public confidence. Warwick McKibbin analyzes the impact on the global economy and says the next few weeks are critical to assess whether the world will see further economic decline.

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.

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.

What a Flu Pandemic Could Cost the World

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Fearing the swine flu outbreak may lead to pandemic, stock markets have declined and tourism, food and transportation industries are suffering from a lack of public confidence. Brookings expert Warwick McKibbin and Alexandra A. Sidorenko offer insight into what type of reactions we could see from the global economy.

The Global Financial Crisis and the Turkish Economy

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 09:30:00 GMT

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April 27, 2009, 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM

On April 27, the Center on the United States and Europe (CUSE) at Brookings hosted Turkish Minister of State Mehmet Şimşek for a discussion of the health of Turkey’s economy and the Turkish government’s recently announced economic stimulus plans.

Latin America's Challenges Beyond the Global Crisis

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 11:00:00 GMT

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April 24, 2009, 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM

On April 24, the Brookings Institution and the Andean Development Corporation (CAF) hosted a discussion on the present and future impact of the financial crisis on Latin America.

IMF Governance Reform: A Discussion on the Recommendations of the Committee

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 14:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 24, 2009, 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM

On April 24, the Brookings Institution hosted a conversation with Trevor Manuel and George Soros, among other distinguished panelists, on the recommendations by the Committee on IMF Governance and also discussed broader global financial challenges, including proposals for a new global reserve currency.

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.