The World Bank is one the most important and least understood major international institutions. This book provides a concise, accessible and comprehensive overview of the World Bank's history, development, structure, functionality and activities.

These themes are illustrated with a wide variety of case studies drawn from the Bank's international activities. This new book also discusses the controversial challenges that the Bank now faces in the light of the criticism from campaigners and NGOs.

The World Bank is essential reading for all students, activists and policy makers with an interest in globalization, global governance and development who wish to understand where the World Bank goes from here.