Public Symposium
18-19 May, 2009
UNCTAD's first public symposium concluded with a call for an inclusive response to the global economic downturn that will reform the international financial system, protect developing countries and the poor, and supply funding and effort to maintain and create jobs.
The symposium was organized in cooperation with the United Nations Non-Governmental Liaison Service (NGLS) and other partner organizations.
The symposium’s key topics:
- The global economic crisis - its causes and its multiple impacts. The debate will consider, in particular the effects on developing countries in the area of trade, investment, food security and jobs.
- Assessing existing responses to the crisis at international, regional and national levels - limitations and best practices. In addition to examining the effectiveness of stimulus packages implemented in some countries, the debate will address multilateral efforts to find solutions to the crisis, including the G-20 Summit outcome and regional initiatives.
- Proposals for the way forward - obstacles and opportunities. The debate will include opportunities arising from the upcoming United Nations conference on the world financial crisis and its impact on development, and longer-term issues such as the reform of the international financial architecture and global economic governance.
For more information please see
Background Documents Please also see
Contributions made by participants