Brookings: Topics - Global Governance

The Zedillo Commission Report on World Bank Reform: A Stepping Stone for the G-20 Summits in 2010

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Johannes Linn comments on the final report issued in October 2009 by the High-Level Commission on Modernization of World Bank Group Governance. He reviews key recommendations and examines reform challenges the World Bank faces moving forward.

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.

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.

21st Century Global Governance: Broadening Participation in International Institutions

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

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.

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

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 17:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

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.

An African Solution to Internal Displacement: AU Leaders Agree to Landmark Convention

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Decades of armed conflict, natural disasters and climate change, have given rise to sizable populations of internally displaced persons (IDPs) throughout Africa. On October 23, African heads of state and government signed a legally binding convention on internal displacement, which as Andrew Solomon notes, demonstrates their commitment to protect the fundamental rights and freedoms of IDPs, to facilitate durable solutions and to ensure that millions of people are no longer excluded from society as a whole.

African Union Convention on Protection and Assistance for Internally Displaced Persons in Africa

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Forced displacement is a devastating experience that often takes years or even decades to recover from. Africa hosts the worlds largest population of internally displaced persons and, as Walter Kälin points out, has taken the initiative to go beyond the existing state of law by creating the first binding international law on internally displaced persons.

"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.

Africa's (Large)⁴ Problem

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

4 Problem" border="0"/>
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.

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?

The G-20 Governments Should Look at Their Own Governance

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

While the G-20 Summit in Pittsburgh was considered successful, Daniel Kaufmann discusses the need for greater emphasis on governance issues. He urges G-20 countries to address governance within their own borders before the group can effectively start to engage in concrete collective action for the public global good.

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.

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.

Replacing the G-7, Not Enlarging It, is a Historic Shift toward Global Inclusion

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following the announcement from Pittsburgh that the G-20 Summit will “permanently replace” the G7, thus bringing countries such as Brazil, India and China into that global body, Colin Bradford reflects on the historic significance of this event and what it will mean for continued efforts of cooperation among the international community.

Deciding Who Decides at the G-20 Summit

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Pittsburgh G-20 summit marks the fourth time this group of leaders has met, but the meetings operate on an ad hoc basis undermining confidence that it will deliver, say Nina Hachigian and Bruce Jones. They argue setting the table at the G-20 to make global decisions that stick is one of the thorniest issues the leaders gathering in Pittsburgh will face.

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.

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.

A New International Monetary Fund?

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In a recent compilation of commentary for the G-20 Summit in Pittsburgh, Domenico Lombardi discusses conclusions drawn from recent IMF governance reform consultations and states that it is time for the IMF to embrace transparency and accountability, in order to bring its practices into line with those of other international organizations.

The Case for Australia's UN Security Council Bid

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

More than a year ago, Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd announced his country’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2013-2014. Michael Fullilove breaks down the arguments of critics of the plan, provides a look at public opinion, and explains why UN Security Council membership is in Australia's best interest.

The Scouting Report: Previewing the Pittsburgh G-20 Summit

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

September 23, 2009, 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM

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 questions about the G-20 Summit and global economic recovery.

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.

Washington Roundtable on the Global Economic Agenda

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 08:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

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.

President Obama and the Restoration of Multilateral Diplomacy

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As President Obama travels to the UN and G-20 summits, he will place himself squarely at the center of multilateral diplomacy. His administration has started to lay out its vision, but several tough questions, such as Security Council reform, have yet to be publically addressed. Bruce Jones and Richard Gowan assess President Obama's efforts to restore U.S. leadership in multilateral forums to date.

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.

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.

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.

IMF Governance Reform and Civil Society

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Governance reform at the IMF is one of the most critical tasks facing the institution. In early 2009, the IMF Managing Director, for the first time in the Fund's history, called for global consultations with civil society to gather its input in the current reform process. In a presentation before IMF Executive Directors, Domenico Lombardi shared the main points of the final report of the Fourth Pillar (civil society) consultations on IMF governance reform.

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.

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.

Report of the Representative of the Secretary-General on the Human Rights of Internally Displaced Persons

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Internal displacement continues to be one of the world's major humanitarian and human rights challenges and many internally displaced persons (IDPs) experience serious violations of their human rights. In his annual report to the UN General Assembly, Walter Kälin argues that it is important to translate the increasing recognition of the human rights dimension of internal displacement at the international and regional levels into effective action at the national and local levels of government.

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.

G8: The Run-up to L'Aquila

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Federiga Bindi explores topics of discussion in the lead-up to the G8 summit in Italy. Bindi points to high-level meetings prior to the summit as hopeful examples of participants speaking freely on issues of global concern like climate change and nuclear proliferation.

The G20 and Political Capital for the International Financial Institutions

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Discounted by many observers only a year ago, the International Financial Instiutions (IFIs) have been bolstered by support of the G20 process. Domenico Lombardi discusses how the G20 can be used as catalyst for reform within international finance.

The G8: From Trieste to L’Aquila

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Federiga Binda believes the recent G8 foreign ministers meeting in Trieste has set the stage for pragmatic and operative discussions at the upcoming G8 summit. Bindi examines key issues of the debate including Afghanistan, nuclear proliferation and the future role of the European Union in global governance.

Can the G8 Lead in IMF Reform?

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Domenico Lombardi questions whether the G8 is leading the discussion on critical IMF governance reform and claims that the G20 may be better equipped to mobilize these issues. While the G8 may no longer be the guiding force behind the reform of the Bretton Woods Institutions, Lombardi states that it does provide an informal framework to discuss issues of common responsibility among its members. For instance, the G8 Summit should focus on the declining aid flows to poor countries and fulfilling its previous commitments to aid African growth.

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.

Will the G8 Deliver on Education for All?

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In 2000, leaders from the G8 Summit pledged to achieve universal basic education by 2015. Despite their commitments, donor assistance is declining and investments in education for the developing world are being cut, states David Gartner. He urges the G8 to make good on their promise and proposes President Obama to seize the moment of opportunity with a bold investment in education.

Europe and the Emerging Powers at the G8 Summit: "Taxation without Representation"

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the G8 summit nears, Bruce Jones highlights the problems involved in holding international decision-making meetings with just a handful of countries in an increasingly interconnected world. Jones argues that it is time to get serious about new modes of cooperation that gives a stronger voice to rising powers such as India and China.

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.

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.

Comparative Perspectives on Laws and Policies Addressing Internal Displacement

Sat, 27 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

To date, over twenty countries, including Turkey, have already adopted policies or legislation specifically addressing internal displacement—many of which are based on the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement—and other countries are in the process of doing so. In this statement, Elizabeth Ferris puts the issue of law and policy development into the broader framework of national responsibility and gives an overview of the ways in which governments have addressed internal displacement in their laws and policies, including in the search for durable solutions.

The G8 and Beyond: The Economics and Politics of a Global Century?

Sun, 21 Jun 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 21, 2009, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
June 22, 2009, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

On June 21 and 22, the Italian Foreign Ministry held a conference in partnership with the Brookings Institution, Aspen Italia, Club de Madrid, Link Campus University – Sage, and Centro di Eccellenza Jean Monnet – Fondazione Economia Tor Vergata. The goal of the conference was two-fold: to generate ideas that transcend the tyranny of the urgent and could help inform preparations for the Italy-hosted G8 Summit in July 2009; and to generate debate and discussion on longer-term efforts to reform the international system.

Foresight USA Symposium

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

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.

American Leadership in a Global Century

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Carlos Pascual delivered the commencement address at Fort Leavenworth Command and General Staff College. Pascual challenged graduates to make operational the perspectives of American leadership in a globalized world.

Democratic Elections and Coalition Government? A View from Kenya

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 09:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

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.

Mass Displacement Caused by Conflicts and One-Sided Violence

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Massive displacement of people within and across borders has become a defining feature of the post-cold war world. It is also a major feature of human insecurity in which genocide, terrorism, egregious human rights violations and appalling human degradation wreak havoc on civilians. Though there has been a critical shift in thinking at the international level with regards to forced displacement, Cohen and Deng argue that concepts of sovereignty as responsibility and the responsibility to protect remain far ahead of international willingness and capacity to enforce them.

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.

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.

Nigeria: Could Ekiti Voting Debacle Be Turning Point?

Mon, 04 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Marred by violence and intimidation, recent voting in the Ekiti state of Nigeria ended with Segun Oni of the Peoples Democratic Party emerging as the winner of the rerun governorship polls. Richard Joseph argues that if Nigeria is to establish its democracy on a firm basis, a major non-partisan national movement may be needed.

IMF Bonds: Details and Implications

Mon, 04 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The IMF is considering issuing bonds as a way to increase the amount of money it has available to lend to countries struggling in the wake of the financial crisis. In a new article, Eswar Prasad discusses the bond proposal, including the potential structure and impacts on the demand for U.S. treasuries.

Obama's First 100 Days: Recommendations and an Evaluation of U.S. Global Engagement

Fri, 01 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama took office with a sweeping agenda to restore America’s image and rebuild U.S. alliances to meet the common challenges of the 21st Century. As the new administration passes the 100 day milestone, the Managing Global Insecurity Project (MGI) assesses progress toward a new era of U.S. global leadership and compares the early actions of the Obama administration to the recommendations of MGI.

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.

U.S. Foreign Policy and President Obama

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Carlos Pascual and Brent Scowcroft joined Charlie Rose to discuss President Obama’s ambitious new approach to U.S. foreign policy. Pascual also commented on his new book, Power & Responsibility, and the realist perspective behind it.

Internal Displacement and the Role of Parliamentarians in Times of Crises

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

One of the tragic and yet regular consequences of the absence of peace is forced displacement. All too often, civilian populations become the target of armed forces and insurgents who drive them away from their lands. National parliaments and their members play a key role in addressing this challenge.

The G-20 and the End of Ideology: From Washington to London to New York

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upon conclusion of last week's G-20 Summit in London, U.K. Prime Minister Gordon Brown suggested that the death of the Washington Consensus has been met with the rise of a new era of consensus. Daniel Kaufmann examines the Summit's communiqué and the global response to the financial crisis, finding more evidence of a shift toward pragmatism than the advent of a new ideology.

Assessing the G-20 London Summit: Voices in Play

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

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

The G-20 Statement: Implications for Latin America

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Economic conditions in emerging and developing countries are rapidly deteriorating and many are unable to implement recommended fiscal stimulus plans. Following the G-20 London Summit, Mauricio Cárdenas discusses the implications for Latin America and how multilateral development banks will play a role in economic recovery.

India Must Lead the G-20 Agenda

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The reordering of the global economic power structure has created a leadership void among emerging markets. Eswar Prasad believes India is in an ideal position to lead the emerging markets and urges them to step up.

The London G-20 Summit: Addressing the Global Financial Crisis

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 12:43:39 GMT

On April 2, leaders of the world’s 20 largest economies will begin talks in London to focus on solutions for the global financial crisis. Johannes Linn previews the meeting and says there a number of actions they must agree on to help mitigate the economic crisis.

The G-20 Stimulus Split: A False Debate

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Much has been made of a G-20 split on stimulus plans but is the debate warranted? In a new op-ed, Colin Bradford argues that Europe’s automatic stabilizers should count and what matters most is the total amount of global economic response, particularly for citizens suffering from the crisis.

The Crisis is More Than Economics

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

At the London G-20 Summit, the leaders of the major new "great powers"—China, India and Brazil—will be prominent. Brookings scholar Colin Bradford and Martin Albrow, visiting senior fellow at the Centre for the Study of Global Governance, reflect on how the G-20 will only fill the vacuum at the center if it addresses the broader systemic crisis of responsibility and accountability that arises out of the West’s worship of the free market.

Shaping a Globalized World

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Carlos Pascual believes short- and long-term issues of globalization cannot be considered independently from one another. Rather, the biggest challenge for transnational governance lies in the scale of the global agenda, and the complexity and interconnectedness of individual issues. Pascual calls for a redefinition of global responsibilities in order to tackle the essential challenges of a globalized world.

The G-20 Summit - Its Significance for the World and for Turkey

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs journal, Colin Bradford and Johannes Linn assess the global impact of the G-20 Summit and insist that Turkey actively engages in the G-20 summit process in order to strengthen Turkey’s role as a respected and effective member of the international community.

G-20 Should Be Pragmatic About Protectionism

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Global trade and reducing protectionism will be on the agenda at the G-20 Summit in London. Paul Blustein recommends an ambitious, but practical approach, advising that minimizing long-term damage to the trading system should be the overarching goal.

Reform the IMF and World Bank

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Reform of the IMF and World Bank is one of the tasks for the G-20 Summit in London. Johannes Linn suggests steps for critical action to help ensure early recovery from the current global financial crisis and the future capabilities of these institutions.

The London Summit: Can the G-20 Fix the Financial Crisis?

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 11:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

March 30, 2009, 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM

Leaders of the world’s 20 largest economies, including President Barack Obama, will gather in London on April 2 for summit focused on the global financial crisis. On March 30, Brookings hosted a discussion with leading experts on the critical issues facing the leaders at the G-20 Summit.

Regional Voices in Global Governance: Looking to 2010

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

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

The G-20 London Summit 2009

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

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

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

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

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

The G-20 Summit and the Financial Crisis’ Impact on Latin America

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 12:39:12 GMT

As the global economic crisis continues, Mauricio Cárdenas says emerging economies in Latin America and elsewhere are hit especially hard. He says G-20 members must urge the multilateral banks to continue lending to the region and adds that without such assistance the crisis will only worsen.

Regional Voices in Global Governance: The Role of Advocacy

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

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

Regional Voices in Global Governance: A Natural Progression

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

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

Economic Revival Requires a Broad Spread of Demand

Sun, 22 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Will the global economy again be able to deliver the results we came to expect? Kemal Dervis states recommends four key action areas in order for a relatively quick economic recovery to occur.

The Developing Countries and the G-20

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Although few developing countries have systemic importance in terms of aggregate world demand, they need supportive global policy action for systemic economic reasons. Kemal Derviş recommends that they should request IMF reforms, greater fiscal support, and more humanitarian development assistance at the G-20 London Summit.

International Order in an Era of Transnational Threat

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 11:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

March 20, 2009, 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM

On March 20, the Brookings-Tsinghua Center for Public Policy hosted Carlos Pascual and Bruce Jones for a public lecture on their new book, Power and Responsibility: Building International Order in an Era of Transnational Threats.

After the Fall: Re-asserting the IMF in the Face of Global Crisis

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Under the pressure of the current crisis, the international community is carving out a new role for the IMF. Among Domenico Lombardi's recommendations is making the decision-making system more transparent and inclusive.

Aid Effectiveness and Governance: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The effectiveness of development aid has historically been mixed. In a new article, Senior Fellow Daniel Kaufmann discusses recent aid effectiveness initiatives, the gulf between current aid strategies and the new reality of aid, and offers proposals for next steps to improve efforts.

From the G-20 to AIG: The Unfinished Turmoil in Global Banking and Finance

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In an interview with NPR's On Point, scholars Eswar Prasad and Kenneth Rogoff discuss the current banking and global finance issues, and the importance of global leadership as the G-20 Summit approaches.

Changing How We Address Global and National Security

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When it comes to global security threats, there has been no shortage of wake-up calls. Bruce Jones, Carlos Pascual and Stephen Stedman examine a world of transnational threats where the actions -- or inaction -- of people and governments anywhere in the world can harm others thousands of miles away.

Obama Should Meet African Ministers Before G20 Summit

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Barack Obama's election held potential promise for Africa, but attention to many key areas of development has been diverted by pressing U.S. domestic issues. Richard Joseph recommends that a side meeting in London, before the G20 Summit, between Obama and several African finance ministers could yield concrete suggestions for urgent action.

The G-20 Summit and Global Trade: Restore Credit and Resist Protectionism

Sat, 14 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Global trade has declined considerably in the wake of the global financial crisis due to decreased demand and increased protectionism. Arvind Panagariya advises the G-20 nations on how to reinvigorate trade to stimulate economies through specific recommendations aimed at restoring the flow of goods and finances.

A G-20 Insurance Solution for Global Imbalances

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

What would help governments move beyond short-term solutions to the financial crisis and towards efforts to regain global financial stability? Eswar Prasad proposes creating an insurance pool for the Group of 20 largest economies in order to reduce incentives for reserve buildups and help focus policymakers on the international consequences of domestic actions.

Back to the Future: The Reform of the Bretton Woods Institutions and the Harry White Method

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Will the G-20 be able to offer recommendations for the outdated governance systems of the IMF and the World Bank? Domenico Lombardi suggests a focus on the Bretton Woods model could provide the needed guidance.

Assessing the G-20 Stimulus Plans: A Deeper Look

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Almost all of the G-20 countries have agreed to some type of fiscal stimulus plan to get their economies back on track but how strong are the plans and what measures are included? Eswar Prasad and Isaac Sorkin analyze the G-20 stimulus plans in detail in new research.

The G Force: Global Governance and the International Economic Crisis

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In April, leaders of the G-20 Summit will gather in London for a second meeting. In the March edition of The World Today, Colin Bradford discusses challenges they will face and how to make this governance mechanism work for the good of the international community.

How to Improve Governance : A New Framework for Analysis and Action

Sun, 01 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This perceptive book emphasizes the need for an overall analytical framework that can be applied to different countries to help analyze the current situation, identify potential areas for improvement, and assess their relative feasibility and the steps needed to promote them.

Forced Displacement and Housing, Land, and Property Ownership Challenges in Post-Conflict and Reconstruction

Sat, 28 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Post-conflict reconstruction and stabilization requires protecting and assisting internally displaced persons (IDPs) who have been uprooted from their homes and made vulnerable to violence, exploitation, discrimination and other human rights violations. In this paper, Andrew Solomon and others review the international standards and best practices for protecting the housing, land and property rights of IDPs.

World Bank Reform: Proposals for the Next G-20 Summit

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The April 2, 2009 G-20 Summit should focus on easing the impact of the global financial crisis—particularly on the world’s poor. Leading up to the summit, Johannes Linn lists recommendations for critical World Bank reform so that the global institution can aid the developing world during this time of crisis.

The Responsibility to Protect: Human Rights and Humanitarian Dimensions

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Everyone would agree that international human rights standards are the foundation of the responsibility to protect (R2P). States have an obligation to protect their populations from the worst atrocities on the basis of international human rights precepts. However, it was not until the advent of R2P that the international community accepted for the first time the collective responsibility to act should states fail to protect citizens from genocide, ethnic cleansing, war crimes or crimes against humanity.

Global Governance and What It Means

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ann Florini discussed the difference between "global government" and "global governance," intergovernmental organizations such as the UN, and the role and achievements of civil society and transnational networks, particularly on environmental issues.

Nigeria's Great Opportunity

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Nigeria possesses abundant assets to meet the economic challenges. Richard Joseph urges Nigerians to continue on the course of sustainable development efforts.

International Financial Governance: Toward the London G-20 Summit

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 09:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 09, 2009, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

In advance of the April G-20 leaders' summit in London, Brookings organized a high-level seminar with the British government and relevant experts to discuss and debate the most critical issues for the summit meeting. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown made introductory remarks at the session, calling for a "bold leap forward" to prevent future financial crises, and noted that the IMF and World Bank need to change their roles post-crisis.

Corruption and the Global Financial Crisis

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the Obama administration announces new rules for lobbyists, particularly focused on stimulus funds, Brookings expert Daniel Kaufmann examines the role that corruption and influence have played in the global financial crisis, and suggests ways policymakers should address these issues in future regulation.

European Launch of Power and Responsibility

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 09:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

January 27, 2009, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

On January 27, Chatham House hosted the European launch of Power and Responsibility: Building International Order in an Era of Transnational Threats. In Power and Responsibility, MGI Co-Directors and Brookings Fellows Bruce Jones, Carlos Pascual, and Stephen Stedman provide the conceptual underpinnings for a new approach to sovereignty and cooperation.

Internally Displaced Persons: A Neglected Issue on the International Agenda

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the world commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Elizabeth Ferris writes that it is timely to focus on international efforts to uphold the rights of those who have been forced to leave their homes and communities.

Guiding Principle 29 and the Right to Restitution

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The emergence of the right to post-displacement property restitution represents a significant development in human rights law in the ten years since the Guiding Principles were submitted. While Guiding Principle 29 has contributed to the development of this right, significant obstacles remain to its consistent application in displacement settings.

The Genesis and the Challenges of the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In this article, Roberta Cohen and Francis Deng explain that the need for international standards to protect and assist internally displaced persons arose directly from the explosion of civil wars in the last decade of the 20th century. These wars left tens of millions uprooted within the borders of their own countries.

Assessing the Impact of the Guiding Principles: An Unfinished Task

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Guiding Prinicples' objectives were clear but, ten years on, how can we assess their impact? The late Sérgio Vieira de Mello identified four ways the Principles might benefit IDPs: raising awareness of their needs; mobilizing support within the humanitarian community; helping field staff find solutions; and assisting governments to provide for IDPs' security and well-being. In this article, Elizabeth Ferris examines the impact of the Guiding Principles by examining their progress made on Vieira de Mello's points.

The Future of the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In this article, Walter Kälin explains that while it is hard to take an objective view on an enterprise in which you have been closely involved, he thinks that it is fair to say that over the last ten years the Guiding Principles have demonstrated their utility and impact but also their limitations.

Brookings: Topics - Global Governance

The Zedillo Commission Report on World Bank Reform: A Stepping Stone for the G-20 Summits in 2010

Obama's Kenya: A Potential Political Minefield

The Global Economic Agenda: Issues Paper for the Washington Roundtable

21st Century Global Governance: Broadening Participation in International Institutions

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

An African Solution to Internal Displacement: AU Leaders Agree to Landmark Convention

African Union Convention on Protection and Assistance for Internally Displaced Persons in Africa

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

Self-Enforcing Trade : Developing Countries and WTO Dispute Settlement

Africa's (Large)4 Problem

Nobel Prize in Economics: Illusions From Tinbergen to Keynes

The G-20 Governments Should Look at Their Own Governance

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

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

Replacing the G-7, Not Enlarging It, is a Historic Shift toward Global Inclusion

Deciding Who Decides at the G-20 Summit

The 0.85 Percent Solution for Low-Income Countries

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

A New International Monetary Fund?

The Case for Australia's UN Security Council Bid

The Scouting Report: Previewing the Pittsburgh G-20 Summit

Combating Judicial Corruption in Uganda

Washington Roundtable on the Global Economic Agenda

President Obama and the Restoration of Multilateral Diplomacy

G-20 Summit: Recovering from the Crisis

A Dangerous Game of Trade 'Chicken'

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

IMF Governance Reform and Civil Society

Obama Must Resist the Anti-Trade Mobs

Protectionism Exposed

Report of the Representative of the Secretary-General on the Human Rights of Internally Displaced Persons

Protectionism Continues its Climb

G8: The Run-up to L'Aquila

The G20 and Political Capital for the International Financial Institutions

The G8: From Trieste to L’Aquila

Can the G8 Lead in IMF Reform?

G8 Africa Action Plan: Enhance Strategies for Development

Will the G8 Deliver on Education for All?

Europe and the Emerging Powers at the G8 Summit: "Taxation without Representation"

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

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

Comparative Perspectives on Laws and Policies Addressing Internal Displacement

The G8 and Beyond: The Economics and Politics of a Global Century?

Foresight USA Symposium

American Leadership in a Global Century

Democratic Elections and Coalition Government? A View from Kenya

Mass Displacement Caused by Conflicts and One-Sided Violence

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

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

Nigeria: Could Ekiti Voting Debacle Be Turning Point?

IMF Bonds: Details and Implications

Obama's First 100 Days: Recommendations and an Evaluation of U.S. Global Engagement

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

U.S. Foreign Policy and President Obama

Internal Displacement and the Role of Parliamentarians in Times of Crises

The G-20 and the End of Ideology: From Washington to London to New York

Assessing the G-20 London Summit: Voices in Play

The G-20 Statement: Implications for Latin America

India Must Lead the G-20 Agenda

The London G-20 Summit: Addressing the Global Financial Crisis

The G-20 Stimulus Split: A False Debate

The Crisis is More Than Economics

Shaping a Globalized World

The G-20 Summit - Its Significance for the World and for Turkey

G-20 Should Be Pragmatic About Protectionism

Reform the IMF and World Bank

The London Summit: Can the G-20 Fix the Financial Crisis?

Regional Voices in Global Governance: Looking to 2010

The G-20 London Summit 2009

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

The G-20 Summit and the Financial Crisis’ Impact on Latin America

Regional Voices in Global Governance: The Role of Advocacy

Regional Voices in Global Governance: A Natural Progression

Economic Revival Requires a Broad Spread of Demand

The Developing Countries and the G-20

International Order in an Era of Transnational Threat

After the Fall: Re-asserting the IMF in the Face of Global Crisis

Aid Effectiveness and Governance: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

From the G-20 to AIG: The Unfinished Turmoil in Global Banking and Finance

Africa's (Large)⁴ Problem