Good Governance in Economic Development

Globally, isolationism and protectionism are on the rise, and resurgent authoritarian nations are seeking to reassert the centrality of the sovereign state. And with China’s influence around the world intensifying, the dynamic interrelationship of the national and supranational in shaping norms of good governance has become increasingly relevant. Good Governance in Economic Development critically examines the ways in which transparency and accountability underpin the objective of good governance, through mechanisms that are incorporated or reflected in international trade, finance, and investment regimes. It also explores the Chinese state’s engagement with these norms, shedding new light not only on how the principles of transparency, accountability, and public participation are applied within China, but also on the ability of China to affect international rules. The essays in this timely collection argue that transparency and accountability standards are constituted and reconstituted by the agencies and governments seeking to impose them. Through close analysis of how these norms are adapted locally, the contributors offer insights into the global and national implications of international good governance rules.