Covering the history of the IMF and World Bank from their origins, Lavelle shows that domestic political constituencies in advanced industrial states have always been important drivers of international financial institution policy. She focuses in particular on the U.S. Congress, tracing its long history of involvement with these institutions and showing how the Congress wields significant influence. The impact of 2008 financial crisis has focused American politics on the global role played by the IMF and World Bank.

Iran is wracked by its greatest political turmoil since the Iranian revolution. With the Obama Administration striving for engagement rather than confrontation, these developments have raised the diplomatic stakes with both countries. Two leading experts will discussion domestic developments in Iran as well as the current posture of the international community and how both developments create challenges for the United States.

Women and water are inextricably linked around the world. Responsibility for fetching and using water commonly rests – quite literally – on the shoulders of women and girls. This burden exacts a high toll across sectors, negatively impacting health, education, economy, agriculture, gender equity, and political stability.