During the last decade of the twentieth century, the forces of globalization came under increased scrutiny from governments, financial institutions, and concerned citizens and citizen-groups alike. As the reach of global economic institutions expands, the ability of national governments to regulateÂor even influenceÂthe course of economic events has been called into question. At issue in these discussions, debates, and protests are the policies and governance of the principal global economic institutionsÂthe International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, and the World Trade OrganizationÂand their interactions with member governments, other international agencies, and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). To whom are these institutions accountable, what is the reach and effect of their decisions, and how do they serveÂor not serveÂthe goals of promoting sustainable growth, economic development and social stability?
This session will bring together individuals from the entire spectrum of this debateÂthe international financial community, citizen groups, governments, corporations, labor organizations, and NGOsÂto discuss what reforms may be needed in global economic institutions. Issues to be addressed include: sustainable development and international lending practices; trade rules and national sovereignty; international labor standards; environmental protection; and transnational corporations and civil society.