This module seeks to provide the student with a balanced and objective analysis of the main issues confronting international policymakers and to explain why these global issues have an impact on the daily lives of citizens across the globe. Through the use of economic theory, empirical evidence and objective analysis the student will be challenged to separate clear argument from anecdotal evidence. The module will also explore the difference between pure economic argument and the constraints of political economy that politicians and policymakers must confront.

The syllabus covers the following topics: Analysis of the economic and political economy framework established for the world economy at the Bretton Woods Conference in 1944; Exploration of the establishment and rationale for the creation of the Multilateral Institutions such as the World Bank, The International Monetary Fund and The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development. Elaboration of the factors that have and continue to impinge on the development of the poorer countries in the world. In depth exploration of the collapse of the Bretton Woods Agreement in the 1970s and the link to the development of global imbalances, the financial crisis of 2008 and the subsequent economic turmoil in Europe. An analysis of why technology is having a significant implication for the location of economic production and an analysis of intemational off-shoring of production. An analysis the economic and social issues associated with migration and a discussion of the need for an international migration agency.

Apply economic theory to facilitate an in-depth understanding of issues confronting the global economy; Explain the economic/political environment that harnessed economic development the developed world post 1945 and identification as to why so many poor countries have failed to prosper; Evaluate the competing arguments made for or against international and domestic economic policy interventions; Understand the increasingly globalised nature of international production and consumption and the need for greater international co-ordination of public policy; Analyse and understand the pros and cons of increased globalisation.

Appreciate the complexity of international economic policymaking; Form well informed views on many facets of policy issues in the global economy; Be in a position to explore alternative ways of coping with the significant change induced by global economic trends.

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