Reform of International Institutions: Towards a Commonwealth Agenda

W. Bradnee Chambers; Simon Maxwell; Jonathan Ockenden; Ngaire Woods

doi:10.14217/9781848590298-en

Reform of International Institutions: Towards a Commonwealth Agenda

Authors

W. Bradnee Chambers

Simon Maxwell

Jonathan Ockenden

Ngaire Woods

DOI: https://doi.org/10.14217/9781848590298-en

Synopsis

In today’s world, responses to global challenges can only be achieved by collective debate and action. A coordinated response is required to achieve satisfactory and sustainable outcomes, however, international institutions are no longer placed to support an adequate response to these challenges: they are structurally outdated and in urgent need of reform.

This timely and relevant book examines three sets of major international institutions: the UN, the World Bank and IMF, and institutions concerned with international environmental governance. The contributors, all experts in international policy, argue that current global concerns have outgrown the existing system and an effective response requires serious multilateral cooperation. International institutions must become more efficient and inclusive of emerging economies and smaller states in order to become relevant and effective.

Reform of international institutions is essential for future economic stability and sustainable development. There must be bold steps towards real change. By highlighting the issues and offering recommendations for next steps this book aims to push debate in order to accelerate reform.

About the contributors:
W Bradnee Chambers is Senior Programme Officer at the United Nations University Institute of Advanced Studies.
Simon Maxwell is Director of the Overseas Development Institute, ODI, London.
Jonathan Ockenden is Adviser & Head, International Finance & Capital Markets Section, Economic Affairs Division, Commonwealth Secretariat, London.
Ngaire Woods is Professor of International Political Economy, Director of the Global Economic Governance Programme, University College, Oxford University.