BMJ  2005;330:736 (26 March), doi:10.1136/bmj.330.7493.736

reviews

Book

The World's Banker: A Story of Failed States, Financial Crises, and the Wealth and Poverty of Nations

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Even before I was asked to review this book I knew I would have to read it, as the World Bank probably has more influence, for good or ill, on poverty and development than any other institution in the world. Understanding how it has worked in the last 10 years under its controversial leader is very important. I didn't expect to enjoy the book, so I was pleasantly surprised: it was gripping.

When James Wolfensohn arrived at the bank in 1995 it was at a dangerous moment in its history. Robert MacNamara's earlier vision of poverty reduction had faded, and the bank had become cautious, technocratic, and out of touch with the effects of its policies on poverty. It was under severe challenge from non-governmental organisations (NGOs), including my own, Oxfam, because its structural . . . [Full text of this article]

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Oxfam

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