International Economics And Confusing Politics

‘In a world in which noisy anti-globalization groups get huge media attention, it is refreshing to read this more-measured analysis of the interface between international economics and politics, and of the positive role institutions such as the WTO can play to improve our lot.’ – Kym Anderson, The World Bank ‘David Robertson is an expert guide on the intricacies of international trade politics, the WTO, and so-called civil society. This valuable book incisively cuts through the rhetoric surrounding international trade and should be read by all who care about the future of the world trading system.’ – Douglas A. Irwin, Dartmouth College ‘This book is an amazing and unusual piece of scholarship. It reviews with equal candour the activities of industry groups, NGOs and the multilateral organisations, giving readers an understanding of where the debate about globalisation is taking the world economy.’ – Peter J. Lloyd, University of Melbourne, Australia 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-globalization forces will be of interest to anyone concerned with international affairs.