In American and European history, arguments over taxation--the power of the purse--have been key in the development of democratic institutions. Ideally, paying taxes stimulates demand for accountability, and accountability is a foundation of good governance. But many developing countries generate relatively little revenue from domestic taxation, financing government instead through...

Paul Wolfowitz assumes the presidency of the World Bank on June 1 amid great speculation about his vision for the institution and considerable public debate about its broader purpose and future.

What priorities should Wolfowitz set during his tenure at the World Bank, and what lessons can he draw...

AEI inaugurates a series of events to discuss issues facing the World Bank as its new president Paul Wolfowitz takes the reins.

Fixating on "market failure" rhetoricforgets theimportant reasonthe poorest lack access to drugs: the policies that encourage poverty promoted bytheir governments.

No other organization has had a bigger impact on the economic policy of developing nations than the World Bank, yet its policies have been the subject of intense criticism. A recent book, The World's Banker (Penguin Press, September 2004), by Washington Post columnist Sebastian Mallaby chronicles and...

An ambitious strategy of democracy promotion is poised to be a major pillar of U.S. foreign policy for many years after 9/11.