Bretton Woods Observer
Death of Doing Business Report greatly exaggerated as World Bank announces rebranding plans
World Bank announces relaunch of Doing Business Report in approximately two years.
Alto Maipo: Harms endure due to MDBs’ lack of proper due diligence
World Bank and Inter-American Development Bank’s reactive independent accountability mechanisms cannot address harms caused by lack of proper due diligence…
New IMF-Pakistan agreement likely to have adverse impact on women
IMF and Pakistan have reached agreement for a further loan disbursement, with Pakistan agreeing to significant cuts.
Debt crisis prevention: We need to talk about capital controls
IMF’s position on capital controls must be revised to recognise that they are an essential and permanent macroeconomic tool necessary…
Lack of public finance and debt relief at COP26 undermines countries’ climate goals
Climate-for-debt swaps mechanism proposed by IMF fails to materialise, while rich countries’ climate finance commitments remain unmet.
Independent Evaluation Office downplays IMF’s promotion of austerity whilst civil society warns of further cuts
Concerns over excessive austerity waved away, despite IEO admission that protection of low-income and vulnerable groups had fallen short.
IMF’s punishing surcharges strain Covid-19 response and recovery efforts
Civil society and economists unite in calls for IMF to abolish unethical and harmful surcharges on member countries that undermine financial stability and Covid-19 recovery.
Debt crisis: What next as IMF and G20 initiatives set to expire?
G20 Common Framework left as the only multilateral mechanism for debt suspension, while private sector still refuses to engage.
World Bank accused of being ‘ongoing underperformer’ at COP26
UN official and civil society criticise World Bank and other MDBs for lack of ambition at COP26.
Global Day of Action against the IMF and World Bank rejects corporate recovery agenda
Civil society day of action rejects corporate agenda and greenwashing in World Bank and IMF Covid-19 recovery.
IMF takes steps to control cryptocurrency policies
Fund warns cryptocurrencies are a threat to global financial stability as El Salvador makes Bitcoin legal tender.
Tensions escalate between Argentina and the IMF ahead of crucial loan repayment deadline
Controversial loan from IMF could force country into severe spending cuts.
Civil society frustrated by lack of substantive engagement in IDA20 replenishment process
Private sector first approach intact in IDA20 replenishment despite CSO recommendations.
Will IMF policy advice align with new UNESCO Declaration on education finance?
IMF advice makes it challenging for countries to achieve education finance goals agreed at UN declaration.
