Welcome to the website of The Broker, a bimonthly magazine and email newsletter, published by the Foundation for International Development Publications (IDP). The magazine is for all those concerned with development and globalization, especially in the fields of economics, human security, governance, and science and technology.   Read more>>

Is circular migration the ‘silver bullet’ for achieving a ‘triple win’ – for the host countries, the migrants’ countries of origin, and the migrants themselves? Reaching a real win–win–win situation will require more than just positive thinking.   Read more>>

Anyone who wants to help prevent climate change would do better to give up eating meat rather than their car, suggests a recent FAO report. Scientists agree that livestock are a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, but not all of them endorse the proposed solution – more intensive livestock production.   Read more>>

Before history repeats itself, it must be investigated. The invasion and occupation of Iraq, according to nine recent books, can be described as a string of conscious and politically guided mistakes – with disastrous consequences.   Read more>>

There are increasing calls for greater cooperation between scientists from different disciplines. Under certain circumstances such interdisciplinary research can add value. A new publication, Building bridges, offers some advice for sceptics and enthusiasts.   Read more>>

Coalitions of the willing have been accused of undermining multilateralism. But if they work from the bottom up, they can actually strengthen global governance. Witness the efforts to ban landmines and, most recently, cluster munitions.   Read more>>

Throughout Africa, China is challenging the West, not only in terms of economic investments, but also through its development aid.   Read more>>

Editorial: Breaking down barriers

Development professionals, policy makers and scientists in the field of global issues have for a long time been separated by institutional boundaries, cultural barriers and poor communication. But for some time now the trend has been towards integration, cooperation, forging linkages and bridging gaps. In academia this is called interdisciplinary research, while within (foreign) ministries and development NGOs it fits under the umbrella of ‘policy coherence’ – all policies should be ‘for...