Why Global Development Matters and What the Next U.S. President Should Do About It


 

Publication Date: November 2008

Publisher: Center for Global Development

Author(s): Nancy Birdsall

Research Area: Economics; Government

Keywords: International Development; Presidential transition; Foreign Policy

Type: Brief

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

This White House and the World Brief presents the key facts and recommendations drawn from the Introduction of The White House and the World: A Global Development Agenda for the Next U.S. President.

The need for a fresh American approach to development has never been more urgent. The economic crisis at home, the threat of failed states and hostile countries acquiring nuclear weapons, our inability to solve critical global problems like climate change alone--all these mean that America needs to find ways to engage with the developing world that go beyond our outdated aid mechanisms and our narrow focus on such issues as terrorism, narcotics, and illegal immigrants. Our economic growth, our security, and our ability to shape the new multilateral system all depend on our readiness to forge new, mutually beneficial alliances with a broad range of developing countries. To engage effectively, we must offer these countries more effective partnerships on their own development challenges.