World Bank

Complete Analysis, Structure and Exam Guide

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The World Bank is an international financial institution that provides loans and technical assistance to developing countries for development projects and poverty reduction.

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1. Establishment and Background

• Established: 1944
• Conference: Bretton Woods Conference
• Headquarters: Washington D.C., USA
• Members: 180+ countries

The World Bank was created along with the IMF to rebuild economies after World War II.

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2. Objectives

• Reduce poverty
• Promote economic development
• Support infrastructure projects
• Improve living standards

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3. Structure (World Bank Group)

• IBRD → Loans to middle-income countries
• IDA → Assistance to poorest countries
• IFC → Supports private sector
• MIGA → Investment guarantees
• ICSID → Dispute settlement

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4. Functions of World Bank

• Provides financial assistance
• Offers technical expertise
• Supports development projects
• Advises on policy reforms

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5. Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

• Global development support
• Financial and technical assistance
• Focus on poverty reduction

Weaknesses

• Conditional loans
• Influence of developed countries
• Social and environmental concerns

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6. Key Points for Exams

• World Bank → 1944
• Bretton Woods → Origin
• IBRD & IDA → Core institutions
• Headquarters → Washington D.C.

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7. Answer Writing Practice

Question: Discuss the role of the World Bank in economic development.

• Introduction → World Bank overview
• Body → Development role
• Conclusion → Challenges and reforms

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