Abstract:

"Here for the first time is a report that focuses on major criticisms of the World Bank and the IMF, two of the most powerful financial institutions in the world. Five country case studies are presented, each concentrating on a different aspect of the critics' charges: Bolivia: Debt, Drugs and Democracy, Ghana: The Model of Success, Brazil: Debt, Damage and Politics, Thailand: Dams and Dislocation, and Philippines: The Debt Fighters. - The charges, including those related to Structural Adjustment, are controversial and provocative. Some go to the heart of the power and the policies of these institutions. They are made by economists, journalists, sociologists; church, labor, environmental, government and community leaders; and ordinary people from these countries who are perceived by critics to be victims of IMF and World Bank policies and projects. Responses to criticisms are presented by the World Bank Senior Vice President and IMF Deputy Managing Director - and top current and past government officials from each country. Bank/Fund history and decision making processes are also included in this valuable teaching tool."