International finance and trade institutions play a fundamental role in the global economy. They must become more responsive to environmental and social concerns if society is to achieve the goal of sustainable development. The public expects openness and accountability from members of institutions such as the World Bank Group, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Trade Organization (WTO), and regional development banks and trade organizations.
Economic expansion in the second half of the 20th century was unprecedented. With it came the recognition that nations must accept the…