International cooperation and development

The course aims to equip students with the tools to understand the dynamics of economic development in a global context, with a specific focus on the interrelations between international trade and inequality. It seeks to foster a critical understanding of contemporary economic challenges, taking into account both macroeconomic structures and the social and political implications of economic choices on a global scale. The lectures therefore focus on an integrated analysis of development processes in low- and middle-income countries, with attention to the diversity of historical and institutional paths. The course examines the role of international institutions (IMF, World Bank, WTO), trade liberalization policies, the effects of participation or non-participation in global value chains, and the financialization of the global economy. It explores how these dynamics affect wealth accumulation, income distribution, and access to essential resources, often exacerbating inequalities both between and within countries. Particular emphasis is placed on how theoretical paradigms of development—neoclassical, structuralist, institutionalist, Keynesian, and critical—have influenced the economic policies adopted in the Global South since the post-World War II period. The teaching methodology combines theoretical approaches with the study of empirical cases, aiming to encourage students to undertake a comparative analysis of economic phenomena and their real-world impacts. By the end of the course, students will be able to critically and consciously interpret the main dynamics of the international economy and their impact on development processes and global inequalities. They will also be able to use conceptual and empirical tools to analyze data, evaluate policies, and propose solutions aligned with an inclusive and sustainable vision of development. This preparation is particularly useful for those intending to work in fields related to international cooperation, public policy-making, or applied research on development and global equity.

Solid knowledge of the content of the 'Economia politica' course.

Missaglia, M., Vaggi, G. (2022). Introduzione all'economia dello sviluppo. Crescita, sostenibilità e cooperazione nel XXI secolo (edizione ottobre 2022). Carocci. ISBN: 9788829012428.

Attendance is not mandatory but strongly recommended.

The assessment of learning is based on passing a written exam and an oral examination. The written exam may include questions that also require graphical representations. For attending students, there will be intermediate tests.

In-class lectures and case studies.