US Development Policy

CGD seeks to inform the US government’s approach to international development by bringing evidence to bear on questions of “what works,” analyzing current or proposed policies and practices, and recommending reforms to strengthen US foreign assistance tools. 

As the world’s largest bilateral donor, the largest shareholder in many multilateral development institutions, and the steward of the dollar-denominated economy, the United States and its policies and practices have significant power to shape global development. CGD seeks to strengthen US contributions to global development by providing evidence of “what works,” publishing rigorous analysis of current or proposed policies and practices, and introducing new reform ideas. With high-level US government experience and strong research credentials, our experts are sought out by policymakers for practical ideas to enhance the United States’ critical role in promoting progress for all.