The enabling international environment

The chapters in this book call for a new approach to development and to development policy. A paradigm of sustainable equitable development (SED) has been proposed with social inclusion and environmental sustainability as integral elements. Along with this is a policy approach that departs from neoliberal orthodoxy—allowing for an activist state and a nuanced approach to trade and financial liberalization, depending on the circumstances of each country. However, the success of alternative strategies is also conditioned by the international environment in which countries operate. Relationships in key areas like trade and finance can help or hinder the attainment of development objectives. Schematically, the role of an “enabling international environment” in supporting alternative development strategies is depicted in figure 12.1. Here, we have grouped its components into those relating to (i) global governance (ii) finance (including aid) (iii) trade, (iv) technology, (v) migration and (vi) the environment. Finance, migration and the environment are the subjects of other chapters; this chapter discusses global governance and international trade and technology rules.

Related Subject(s): Economic and Social Development