Globalization is already a powerful force for poverty reduction as societies and economies around the world are becoming more integrated. Although this international integration presents considerable opportunities for developing countries, it also contains significant risks. Associated with international integration are concerns about increasing inequality, shifting power, and cultural uniformity.

Globalization, Growth, and Poverty focuses on globalization in terms of growing economic integration resulting from the increased flow of goods and services, people, capital, and information. The report is primarily concerned with the effect that this growing integration has on economic growth and poverty reduction. It assesses the impact of globalization and addresses the ensuing anxieties. By focusing on specific policy recommendations, this report proposes an agenda for action aimed at minimizing the risks that globalization potentially generates, while maximizing the opportunities for the poor.

A copublication of the World Bank and Oxford University Press.


Globalization has helped reduce poverty in a large number of developing countries but it must be harnessed better to help the world’s poorest, most marginalized countries improve the lives of their citizens, according to the report Globalization, Growth and Poverty: Building an Inclusive World Economy . This is especially important in the wake of September 11 and the worldwide economic slowdown, which is expected to hit poor people particularly hard.  A presentation, video or Transcript  of the Washington DC press conference.