The Columbia Program on International Investment (CPII) seeks to be a leader on issues related to foreign direct investment (FDI) in the global economy. The CPII focuses on the analysis and teaching of the implications of FDI for public policy and international investment law. Its objectives are to analyze important topical policy-oriented issues related to FDI, develop and disseminate practical approaches and solutions, and provide students with a challenging learning environment.
The CPII was launched in January 2006, and its Executive Director is Karl P. Sauvant. The program is a joint undertaking of the Columbia Law School, whose dean is David M. Schizer, and The Earth Institute at Columbia University, whose director is Jeffrey D. Sachs. CPII is supported by the United Nations Millennium Project and Mark and Gail Appel, philanthropists. The Program is also linked to the Center on Global Legal Problems, which is directed by José E. Alvarez. It is a bridge between the legal focus of Columbia Law School and the sustainable development focus of The Earth Institute.
Planned activities include hosting conferences, symposia and a speakers series, creating and disseminating relevant materials and teaching. The Program gives special attention to issues arising in connection with the international governance system for investment and, in particular, the evolution of international investment law and policy.
Led by the Earth Institute, the CPII also participates in the Millennium Cities Initiative. Focusing on cities in Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mali, Nigeria, and Senegal, this Initiative advises selected municipalities on the formulation and implementation of integrated development strategies that are based on the Millennium Development Goals. Its first-year priority is to help attract FDI to these cities, thereby creating employment, stimulating domestic enterprise development, and contributing to sustainable economic growth.
The CPII takes an interdisciplinary approach, dealing with FDI from policy, legal and economic perspectives. It seeks to involve experts from throughout the world in its activities.
The Columbia Program on International Investment website is available at: http://www.cpii.columbia.edu/.
