International Debt Crisis

An assessment of the causes of the debt crisis in developing countries, the harsh measures taken to deal with it, the impact on the poor of these countries and the possibilities of action to solve the crisis and create a fairer global financial and economic system. Firstly, an overview of the 20th century is given, from the Wall Street Crash of 1929 through to the problems of the 80s. Then the control of world economy and the effects of the debt crisis on the economies of Brazil, Jamaica, Zambia and the Philippines are discussed. The key aspects of each topic are selected for discussion and analysis, in an effort ot raise levels of awareness and to promote independent thought. The final chapter of the study looks at measures which have been taken to try and control the debt crisis with proposals and a range of further possible solutions suggested by the author to initiate debate. Illustrations and diagrams are included as well as a glossary of terms, suggestions for further reading and for organizations to contact. The consultant to the book is Dr Stephany Griffith-Jones, a Reader at the Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex.