Across the United States and around the world, attention is riveted this week on the U.S. presidential election. Regardless of who wins on Tuesday, the next president will face unprecedented challenges. These include a global financial crisis with its roots in Washington and New York, wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the urgent need for action to avert catastrophic climate change, and the need to rebuild America’s badly damaged international reputation. Central to these and other problems is a question too often overlooked in the campaigns: What policies should the United States pursue to make it less difficult for four billion people who live in poverty to improve their lives?
CGD’s new book, The White House and the World: A Global Development Agenda for the Next U.S. President has some answers. The book shows how modest changes in U.S. policies could help to foster greater stability, security, and prosperity globally and at home. In fourteen insightful essays, CGD experts offer fresh perspectives and practical advice on trade policy, migration, corruption, foreign aid, climate change, and more. In her introductory essay, CGD president Nancy Birdsall explains why and how the next U.S. president must lead in the creation of a better, safer world. A dozen new policy briefs suitable for the transition team and incoming members of Congress—and for their staff—crisply summarize the key recommendations.
Happy Election Day!
Lawrence MacDonald
Director of Communications and Policy