Global Economic Governance and Human Development

Traditional understandings of economic development in low and middle-income countries have largely been influenced by Official Development Assistance (ODA). Under this measurement compliance with macroeconomic orthodoxy and efforts to integrate the world economy are presented as both the long-term goal and sustainable alternative to development aid. Yet this approach fails to answer fundamental questions surrounding the relationship between the receiving countries and the economic regimes they are asked to join and whether such policies do in fact promote socio-economic improvements.

Using quantitative and qualitative approaches to economic policy analysis in developing countries, this book examines whether ODA policies actually contribute to economic growth and human development in low and middle-income countries. By advancing the debate as to which policy and legal provisions should be adopted by them, it demonstrates how to maximize the benefits and minimize the costs derived from the process of integrating international economic regimes.

Simone Raudino is Attache for the European Union, Brussels, and founder of Gap Consultants, a Hong Kong-based business consultancy company exploring alternative ways of promoting economic and social growth in low-income countries. He is also co-founder of Bridging Gaps, a not-for-profit society promoting interfaith, intercultural and inter-ethnic dialogue.

Arlo Poletti is Associate Professor at the University of Trento, Italy. His research interests focus on the political economy of trade, the politics of international regulatory cooperation and the political-economy of international institutions more broadly.