Division Globalisation and Transformation

The way our economy currently works is destroying the foundations of life on this planet. Climate change is accelerating and biodiversity is under massive pressure. At the same time, the income gap is widening and inequality is growing. A “great transformation” (WBGU) worldwide is needed to bring our global economy in line with planetary boundaries while ensuring a good life for all. The work of our department focuses on projects concerning international infrastructure, investment, economic and fiscal policy as well as the promotion of new economic and development policy ideas.

Recent contributions

Gase brennen in Verbindung mit Sauerstoff

Geogenic Hydrogen: Exploring a New Frontier of the Energy Transition

Commentary

Geogenic hydrogen—often called "white" or "natural" hydrogen—is gaining attention in recent reports as an alternative energy source in the transition away from fossil fuels. Formed deep within the Earth by geological processes, it promises to be a cheaper and less energy-intensive alternative to "green" hydrogen, which is produced from renewable electricity. However, this untapped resource comes with a large to-do list of research, policy development, social and environmental safeguards.

By Jörg Haas and Elena Gnant

verschiedene Geldscheine stecken wie Blumensetzlinge mit einer kleinen Schaufel daneben in der Erde.

A Monetary and Economic Order Fit for the Twenty-First Century

Analysis

If the international community is to have a chance of addressing twenty-first-century challenges effectively and equitably, the global economic and financial architecture that was created eight decades ago must be radically reformed. Eight priorities stand out.

By Ulrich Volz, Janak Raj, Sarah Ribbert, Kamal Ramburuth, Monica Herz and William Kring

A white building with a red roof with mountains in the background

Bretton Woods Revisited: Creating a Monetary and Economic Order Fit for the 21st Century

Statement

Ahead of the 80th anniversary of the Bretton Woods Conference, together with partner institutions, we propose reforms in eight critical areas of the international economic and financial architecture to reflect the changing global realities and challenges.

By Ulrich Volz, Kamal Ramburuth, Janak Raj, Paulo Esteves, William N. Kring and Sarah Ribbert

All articles on Globalisation and Transformation

Thematic focus

Debt Relief for Green and Inclusive Recovery

Green Hydrogen

Ein Kompass liegt auf einem Blatt Papier

Transformative Economy

Infrastructure and Investment policy

Commons

Development Policy

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Sovereign debt Relief for climate vulnerable countries (#COP29 #G20)

The Debt Relief for Green and Inclusive Recovery (DRGR) project, a collaboration between the Boston University Global Development Policy Center, Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung and the Centre for Sustainable Finance, SOAS University of London, argues it is time for comprehensive debt reform. Utilizing rigorous research, DRGR seeks to develop systemic approaches to both resolve the debt crisis and advance a just transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy in partnership with policymakers, thought leaders and civil society from around the world.

For more information, please visit our website www.drgr.org

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Investing for the Future - How Debt Relief Can Help Make Space for Climate and Development Goals

Webinar discussion featuring global experts in international development, debt and climate on the latest DRGR Project report and how to sustainably advance development and climate investments.

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Bretton Woods Revisited - A Monetary and Financial Order for the 21st Century

July 2024 marks the 80th anniversary of the Bretton Woods Agreement, a pivotal moment in history that established the global financial and monetary order post-World War II. This online event aimed to foster an international dialogue on how the system can be revitalized and made more inclusive and responsive to current and future needs.

Publications

Titel „Geogenic Hydrogen – a Contribution to the Energy Transition?“ über Foto von Flammen auf Felsen. Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung, Oktober 2024.

Policy Paper: Geogenic Hydrogen – a Contribution to the Energy Transition?

E-Paper

Geogenic hydrogen could offer an alternative solution for the energy transition, especially in hard-to-decarbonize sectors like steel production and heavy transport. Geologist Stefan Cramer explores the potential and risks of this natural hydrogen and reveals what is currently known.

pdf

Cover: Skyline of Nairobi at sunset, with a tall, modern building in the foreground. Text on the subject of debt crisis and green growth.

Giving Voice to The Silent Debt Crisis

Policy Brief

This policy brief details the challenging debt dynamics facing African nations and outlines several solutions that would improve their fiscal capacity to address the climate emergency and embark on a sustainable growth pathway.

pdf

Defaulting on Development and Climate

Report

As this report shows, many countries will face insolvency problems if they seek to ramp up investment to meet climate and development goals.

pdf

Making the Great Turnaround work

Study

The long-term challenges have lost none of their significance – be it climate breakdown, species extinction, the increase in inequality, or demographic change. The challenge is to craft a strategic approach that can set the course for long-term success.

pdf

Team

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All the news about our work on International Policy Globalisation and Transformation is also available on X (German only).

Division Globalisation and Transformation

Recent contributions

Geogenic Hydrogen: Exploring a New Frontier of the Energy Transition

A Monetary and Economic Order Fit for the Twenty-First Century

Bretton Woods Revisited: Creating a Monetary and Economic Order Fit for the 21st Century

Debt Relief for Green and Inclusive Recovery

Green Hydrogen

Transformative Economy

Infrastructure and Investment policy

Commons

Development Policy

Debt Relief for Green and Inclusive Recovery

Sovereign debt Relief for climate vulnerable countries (#COP29 #G20) - Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung

Video recordings

Investing for the Future - How Debt Relief Can Help Make Space for Climate and Development Goals - Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung

Bretton Woods Revisited - A Monetary and Financial Order for the 21st Century - Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung

Policy Paper: Geogenic Hydrogen – a Contribution to the Energy Transition?

Giving Voice to The Silent Debt Crisis

Defaulting on Development and Climate

Making the Great Turnaround work

Team

Jörg Haas

Sarah Ribbert

Elena Gnant

Christina Rode

Stay in touch

Newsletters & Mailing Lists

Social Media