S. Foreign Direct Investment and Public Policy

This seminar addresses the role of foreign direct investment (FDI), as undertaken by multinational enterprises (MNEs), in the economic growth and development of host countries and national policy and regulatory issues this role raises. More specifically, it begins with a brief review of MNE strategies, before looking at the salient features of FDI and the factors that drive its expansion and that will be doing so in the future (especially emerging market MNEs, offshoring). An assessment of the role of FDI in trade and the transfer of technology follows. While the discussion of the impact of FDI will deal with policy and regulatory issues, the remainder of the seminar focuses entirely on the role that policies, laws and regulations can play in maximizing the positive and minimizing the negative effects of MNEs, starting with an examination of tensions over FDI and MNE activity, and continuing with issues related to policies to attract FDI, host and home country policies, corporate social responsibility, and the rise of international investment agreements. A debate about whether or not FDI contributes to economic growth and development, and policy issues related to this question, concludes the seminar. Students will be evaluated on the basis of ten two-page reaction papers to be prepared for classes, as well as class-room participation. Interested students should send their cv and a statement of interest to [email protected]. Students on the waitlist may be added.