International Economics and Confusing Politics

The IMF, the World Bank and GATT/WTO have had to adapt to changing circumstances in the past 60 years as they guided the world economy to growing interdependence and prosperity. Now they face several simultaneous challenges. In this book, David Robertson discusses the rise of new economic players, including proliferating NGOs, self-promoting UN agencies and 'emerging' economies (such as Brazil, China and India), which call into question the management of G7 governments. This volume assesses the future of international economic relations as economic imbalances are exacerbated by these developments and by changing international alliances. The author also considers the interests of small developing countries, which are acting collectively to seek 'a place at the table', as well as more preferential treatment. International socialism has re-invented itself as 'participatory democracy', which is employed by 'civil society' to challenge inter-governmental agencies. The future of international economic integration will depend on how these developments affect trade, finance, aid and development policies.

Providing a review of international economic relations, while taking account of political, environmental and social issues, this analytical assessment of anti-globalisation forces will be of interest to anyone concerned with international affairs.