The Global Architecture of Multilateral Development Banks: A System of Debt or Development?

This book explores the evolution of the 30 functioning multilateral development banks (MDBs) and evaluates their interrelationships,analyzing their emergence in relation to geopolitics,development paradigms,and debt. It is of particular interest to researchers of development finance,global governance,and international political economy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 286 pages
Publication date: 26 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The evolution of the 30 functioning multilateral development banks (MDBs) is a fascinating journey that traces its roots back to the growing system of international finance and multilateral cooperation. MDBs have emerged as key players in the global economy, providing loans, credits, and guarantees for investment in member states, with the ultimate goal of fostering economic growth.

The first recognisable MDB was proposed by Latin America in financial cooperation with the US in the late 1930s, but it did not eventuate. However, it laid the groundwork for the World Bank, which was negotiated at Bretton Woods in 1944. Since then, a complex network of regional, sub-regional, and specialised development banks has emerged across the globe, including two significant recent entrants established by China and the BRICS.

MDBs play a crucial role in the development of member states, particularly in emerging and developing economies. They arrange loans, credits, and guarantees for investment in infrastructure, human development, and climate change, among other sectors. While the World Bank and some of the larger regional banks have been scrutinised, little attention has been paid to the smaller banks or the overall system.

This book provides the first comprehensive study of all 30 MDBs, evaluating their interrelationships, emergence, and impact on global development. It analyses the role of MDBs in relation to geopolitics, development paradigms, and debt. The book includes sections on each of the banks, highlighting their unique characteristics and approaches to development.

This book will be of particular interest to researchers of development finance, global governance, and international political economy. It offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of multilateral development banks and their role in shaping the global economy.

Weight: 472g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367708122