Issue No. 541 (16-31 Mar 2013)
Argentina-NML dispute has implications for debt restructuring

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Argentina and hedge fund square off in “debt trial of the century”
An ongoing court case brought by a hedge-fund creditor threatens to deprive the Argentine government of valuable foreign exchange reserves and, more broadly, derail prospects for restructuring developing countries’ sovereign debts.
by Bhumika Muchhala

South supports LDCs’ TRIPS transition period, North creates obstances
While it gained widespread backing from developing nations, a request by the least developed countries for a waiver from implementing the WTO’s intellectual property treaty has met with reservations from developed countries.
by Simran Gathani

World Bank safeguards should conform to human rights norms
A UN expert on the right to adequate housing has called for the strengthening of World Bank policy and practice with a view to upholding this basic human right.
by Kanaga Raja

Pressure grows on US to pass IMF governance reforms
The US Congress is being urged to approve a package of reforms that would give developing countries a bigger say in decision-making at the International Monetary Fund.
by Carey L Biron

Analysis: Integrating fiscal and finance issues into a transformative post-2015 development agenda
The global development framework to be put in place following the expiry of the Millennium Development Goals in 2015 must not only address issues of finance but also accept a reinvigorated role for the state in pursuing financial reform.
by Rick Rowden