International financial institutions, WTO and sustainable development Thesis Proposal

International financial institutions, WTO and sustainable development - Thesis Proposal Example The present approach to development recognizes that environmental and human rights protection is linked closely to economic growth and development (Kirk Herbertson). Kirk argues that the World Bank has invested in activities that promote sustainable development. But, the legal mandate of the World Bank has not changed to reflect this broader understanding (Kirk Herbertson).In the 1980 and 1990s, the World Bank demanded economic reforms. Now it allows the borrowing government to choose what is most appropriate for them. Sometimes governments demand funds for projects that are not environmentally sustainable. The civil society sometimes protests against such projects. In the recent past, World Bank has adopted policies to support sustainable development. In 2006, the Bank created its Sustainable Development Network. It provides financial support on issues such as climate change, agriculture, and natural resource management (Kirk Herbertson). The international financial institutions now serve more as advisors to government than regulators. Kirk further argues that in the next decade, the World Bank and other IFIs will play an important role in financing sustainable development. The IFI favourably responds to demands of government after considering the risk factors. Its fossil fuel related projects have grown.