The Research Network Macroeconomics and Macroeconomic Policies (FMM) - Past, Present and Future

First paragraph: The Research Network Macroeconomics and Macroeconomic Policies (FMM) has existed since 1996 as a platform for analysis, research and discussion of macroeconomic issues. It is primarily based in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, but it has established close links to similar networks in other countries, particular in Europe. Since its start the FMM has been concerned with promoting the revival and development of macroeconomic approaches, which have tended to be marginalised, especially in Germany, as a result of the dominance of neoclassical, monetarist and supply-side approaches since the 1970s. According to its latest research programme (FMM 2008), the Research Network aims to be both a platform for discussions about economic theory as well as a forum for economic policy debates: »Macroeconomic theory is seen as the basis for policies which aim at high employment, environmentally sustainable growth, price stability, reduced inequality, and the elimination of poverty.« (FMM 2008: 1) Organisationally, the Research Network is based at the Macroeconomic Policy Institute (IMK) at Hans Boeckler Foundation, and it is funded by the Hans Boeckler Foundation of the German Trade Union Federation (DGB). The FMM is politically independent. Its activities are directed by a coordinating committee, which has been appointed in accordance with the IMK. Since 1996, the main activities of the FMM have been organising annual conferences, publishing the conference proceedings, and organising working groups and summer schools in order to support young economists. The coordinating committee maintains a web site and a newsletter. The Research Network is not a membership organisation and it is open to anyone who is interested in discussions around the research themes outlined below.