Global economic growth estimates for 2012 indicate a continuing fragile recovery. The ongoing sovereign debt crisis and recession in the euro zone, curtailed bank lending and domestic deleveraging, fluctuating but elevated commodity prices, and the ongoing political turmoil in the Middle East...

In May 2008, the Commission released the growth report: strategies for sustained growth and inclusive development. At that time, the financial systems of the United States and Europe were under stress. Commodity prices were also spiking, posing particular difficulties for developing countries...

Access to reliable cross-country data on private sector development is crucial when formulating responses to economic crises. When downturns affect exports, investment, and growth negatively, making life easier for business is a significant step towards economic recovery. This has become obvious...