International Development Law

Abstract

Abstract This legal text provides a theoretical and practical overview of the international legal architecture between developing countries and advanced nations. The text is divided into two parts, the first part providing a theoretical overview of the philosophical implications of international development law principles. Specifically, substantive legal principles with respect to the parties, institutions, and legal norms are discussed providing the reader with a concise and innovative framework in which to analyze development issues. A more practical, “projectized approach” to the development process is also examined based on official development assistance programs of the World Bank and other institutions. Finally, the “right to development” within the international human rights discourse is critically reviewed. The second part deals with the international financial architecture and provides a critical review of international borrowing practices leading to the debt overhang and related problems. Additionally, privatization and capital market growth are examined as critical elements of encouraging broad based economic development that may lead to sustainable development overall. In brief, this legal text offers a fresh, new, and balanced legal perspective on the development process. The text has been rigorously researched and has many practical facets based on professional experience within the development field.