Issue No. 542 (1-15 Apr 2013)
SDG talks reveal North-South differences

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Varying visions and priorities at SDG working group
A UN working group formed to craft proposals for a set of Sustainable Development Goals for the international community held its first meeting in March.  The discussions at the meeting reflected differences in developing and developed countries’ positions on the nature and thrust of the SDGs.
by Bhumika Muchhala

General Council Chair sets out detailed plan on WTO DG selection
The next WTO head will be chosen by the end of May after a process of consultations with country delegations to be conducted by the Chairpersons of the WTO General Council.
by Kanaga Raja

Progress on trade facilitation “too slow” for a deal in Bali – Chair
Disagreements among member states are holding up efforts at the WTO to get an accord on trade facilitation ready for the organization’s Ministerial Conference to be held in Bali in December
by Kanaga Raja

The rise of BRICS in global investment
A new UN agency report charts the growing importance of the BRICS countries as both sources and recipients of investment flows.
by Kanaga Raja

World Bank criticized for omitting inequality in draft strategy
A draft World Bank blueprint on combating poverty has come in for criticism from development advocates for failing to directly address the problem of inequality.
by Carey L Biron

Analysis: The G8 and land grabs in Africa
A food security scheme launched by the G8 major industrial countries threatens to displace peasants and pastoralists in favour of corporate control over Africa’s farmlands and agriculture.
by Grain