During the past twenty or so years, foreign direct investment (FDI) flows have increased at rates approaching the astounding, especially so during the 1990s. While much of the increase was due to unprecedented cross-border mergers and acquisitions among high-income countries, the amount of FDI...

This book explores the complex relationship between social security and economic development, arguing that social security contributes positively to economic development by promoting social investments that not only foster economic growth but enhance social welfare for all. The contributors...

Although economists have long pointed to the aggregate gains from increased economic integration, the popular perception of globalization is much more pessimistic. Workers feel less secure in their jobs and fear wage losses and unemployment. This book explores these issues, and asks whether the...

This book provides a comparative study of the use of partnerships and new forms of governance to achieve policy goals that promote economic and social development. In addition to a consideration of the theoretical challenges posed by these institutional developments, the book reviews recent...

This book demonstrates that, when reforming the water sector, policymakers should arrange social policies that mitigate the negative impact of reforms. It presents a detailed analysis of the current issues, and uses country studies to show how social policies are vital in ensuring affordable...

This book explores institutional change and economic behaviour by examining the transition process in the former socialist countries that joined the EU in 2004, looking at the growth occurring in China, offering a historical perspective on economic underdevelopment in the Middle East, and...

This book provides a theoretical framework to explain the formation and growth of economic agglomerations and industrial clusters from the viewpoint of spatial economics, and goes on to present current examples of clustering and policy in different economies

In today's globalized economy, banking is of international importance. This book interrogates important issues, including reform in China, electronic money and loan pricing. Highlighting key policy and research, it provides insight into contemporary global banking trends and assesses the impact...

Leading experts analyze the impact of the rapid growth of offshore outsourcing in manufacturing and IT. For some it promises more rapid economic growth and for some developing countries it is an opportunity to leapfrog, while others are sidelined but it also means labour and governments may lose...