Center for Global Development (CGD)

In CGD’s nearly 20-year history, our work has led to a measurable impact on the actions of development policymakers—from our proposal to build a full-service development finance institution to changing the conversation on China’s development debt.

We work to reduce global poverty and improve lives through innovative economic research that drives better policy and practice by the world’s top decision makers. We strive for excellence and intellectual rigor and believe global prosperity starts with smart policy based on evidence. Our work is nonpartisan and our recommendations are not influenced by our funders. We are willing to challenge powerful institutions and the status quo for better development practices.

We are committed to transparency, diversity, and professional and personal integrity. We value mutual respect, a collegial work place, and a healthy sense of humor.

CGD is currently focused on the following areas critical to development progress:

•  Global Health Policy
•  Migration, Displacement, and Humanitarian Policy
•  Sustainable Development Finance
•  Technology
•  Education
•  Governments and Development

Impact can take many forms—from shaping the academic consensus to turning proposals into policy. Sometimes, realizing the full potential of a good idea means letting it flower elsewhere and we take pride in our role as an incubator of initiatives—like the Energy for Growth Hub and Labor Mobility Partnerships—that first take root in CGD. CGD has helped to change global policies and practices, and has made a real difference in the lives of people in the developing world.

We generate new ideas, actionable policy proposals, and independent research, and spark critical global development conversations.

We focus on the intersection of developing countries and the governments, institutions, and corporations that can help them deliver the greatest progress.