2012. vol. 7. No. 4

The paper presents a supply-demand model for developing presidency’s proposals for agenda and priorities in informal institutions such as G20, G8 or BRICS, based on the transformed model for evaluating Presidencies of the Council of the EU.

Within the model the presidency effectiveness is based on its capability to match supply and demand as a combination of several factors: 1) the agenda, priorities and summit decisions  respond to a large degree to the key global governance challenges; 2) internal demand (presidency priorities) and external demand (global governance challenges and other members’ interests) are well balanced; 3) the institution capabilities are utilized at most; 4) the choice of the presidency role (organizer, mediator, political leader, national representative) conforms to the combination of external (relevance of the issue, degree to which it has been explored, degree of trust in the chair, multiple brokerage, “shadow of the future”, and political sensitivity of the issue) and internal conditions (importance of the issue for the chair, commitments of the government, preparations, and existence of different views on the issue in the government).

The model can be used for planning and preparing a presidency, as well as for its subsequent evaluation.

The “supply-demand” model was elaborated with support of the RHRF within the framework of a research theme “Elaborating a Supply – Demand Model to Balance External Demand and National Priorities in the Presidency Proposals for Agenda in G20, G8 and BRICS”, project  №12-03-00563.

The article analyses Australia’s position on key global governance issues. The topic gains prominence due to the upcoming 2014 Australian presidency in the G20. The analysis has been carried out on the basis of the G20 documents and data from national sources (laws, national programs, leaders’ statements etc).

Given the priorities of Australia’s socio-economic development and the government’s stance on major international issues, the G20 agenda issues that appear to be of high importance to Australia are: international development assistance, energy and structural reforms, particularly the development of transport infrastructure.

The analysis revealed that Australia during its G20 presidency is likely to carry forward the agenda on promoting economic growth and creating new jobs. Australian experience with structural reforms, upgrading transport infrastructure in order to boost domestic economic growth and employment, can prove valuable in developing the G20 agenda. Australia may also have interest in discussing measures to contain commodity prices volatility, including the issues related to food security and development, as the country actively participates in international development assistance efforts, primarily in the Asia-Pacific region.

Australia’s unique position within the region can define its role as a mediator between the interests of western developed nations and the fast growing Asian countries in the G20.

The study is implemented within the project of the Russian International Affairs Council and International Organizations Research Institute National Research University Higher School of Economics “Enhancing Effectiveness of Russia’s Participation in G20, G8 and BRICS”.

The article presents the analysis of Brazil positions on key global governance issues. The analysis has been carried out on the basis of G20 documents and data from national sources (laws, national programs, leaders’ statements etc). The research highlights Brazilian priorities which define its positions in G20 and other international institutions.

The Brazil’s approach to tackling global risks is defined by dual character of its national goals. On the one hand Brazil strives for a leading position among Latin American countries and participating in international discussions as a representative of the region. On the other hand Brazil also seeks participation in the international cooperation system as a leader and a BRICS member.

This duality requires flexible and consistent promotion of country’s interests in the context of global risks management.  Implementation of this strategy is constrained by the country’s current socio-economic development.

The study is implemented within the project of the Russian International Affairs Council and International Organizations Research Institute National Research University Higher School of Economics “Enhancing Effectiveness of Russia’s Participation in G20, G8 and BRICS”.

The article presents the analysis of the UK positions on key global governance issues. The analysis has been carried out on the basis of G20 documents and data from national sources (laws, national programs, leaders’ statements etc). The research highlights the UK priorities which define its positions in G20 and other international institutions.The UK is one of the most politically, economically and socially developed countries in the world. Country’s success in addressing domestic problems is accompanied by its active engagement in international processes and predetermines the growing importance of global risks management.Addressing economic risks is a key issue for the UK due to the impact of the global financial crisis. In this regard, addressing economic risks is considered to be the main priority for country’s activities in international multilateral institutions, particularly in the G20. Top priorities for the UK in this area include strengthening global financial governance, mitigating systemic risks and reducing fiscal imbalances. The UK government is interested in combating organized crime and terrorism through international cooperation, as well as addressing the problems of fragile states. The country also supports collective efforts to promote energy efficient technologies, provide adaptation to climate change, develop infrastructure in poorer countries and ensure safety of nuclear facilities. Similarly to other developed countries, the UK stresses the need to address problems associated with population ageing. Analysis demonstrates that the UK national priorities broadly correlate with the agendas of G8, G20 and BRICS, predetermining the country’s active engagement in their work.The study is implemented within the project of the Russian International Affairs Council and International Organizations Research Institute National Research University Higher School of Economics “Enhancing Effectiveness of Russia’s Participation in G20, G8 and BRICS”.

The article presents the analysis of India positions on key global governance issues. The analysis has been carried out on the basis of the G20 documents and data from national sources (laws, national programs, leaders’ statements etc). The research identifies Indian approaches to economic, geopolitical, societal, environmental and technological risks which determine its positions in G20 and other international institutions.Most of the global risks are important for India, as it is one of the most influential emerging economies. However, Indian national authorities tend to put an emphasis on addressing domestic problems, in particular social and economic inequality, infrastructure deficiency and natural disasters risks, to ensure the dynamic development of the national economy and improve the well-being of people. As a result, global risks of different clusters are equally important for India, in contrast to other countries, which consider addressing economic risks as a top priority. Therefore, India is interested in being engaged not only in the G20 with its focus on financial and economic issues, but other international institutions, such as BRICS.The analysis demonstrates that global risks considered by the Indian government to be the most relevant for the country include: food security, fiscal imbalances, corruption, international conflicts, extreme weather conditions, nuclear safety and some other risks. The importance of societal risks for India is currently low. However, it is likely to grow in future along with continuing demographic changes.The study is implemented within the project of the Russian International Affairs Council and International Organizations Research Institute National Research University Higher School of Economics “Enhancing Effectiveness of Russia’s Participation in G20, G8 and BRICS”.

The article analyses Canada’s positions on key global governance issues and possible implications for the country’s G20 participation. The analysis has been carried out on the basis of G20 documents and data from national sources (laws, national programs, leaders’ statements etc).

The author notes the systemic approach of Canadian government in addressing issues across a wide range of policy areas. Sustainable development and environment preservation considerations are integrated into the government’s economic agenda. Infrastructure projects are being implemented based on their impact on both socio-economic development and environment. Canadian border policy also favors economic growth by attracting high-skilled labor force from all over the world. Canada, as a long-term supporter of the international development assistance efforts, could provide valuable contribution to developing the G20 agenda in this area.

Given the priorities of Canada’s development and the government’s stance on major international issues, international development assistance, green growth and structural reforms can be regarded as issues of high importance for the country within the G20 agenda.

The study is implemented within the project of the Russian International Affairs Council and International Organizations Research Institute National Research University Higher School of Economics “Enhancing Effectiveness of Russia’s Participation in G20, G8 and BRICS”.

The article presents the analysis of China positions on key global governance issues. The analysis has been carried out on the basis of G20 documents and data from national sources (laws, national programs, leaders’ statements etc). The research highlights Chinese priorities which define its positions in G20 and other international institutions.China is the world leader in terms of economic growth, population size, international trade and investment activities, and other important economic and social indicators. At the same time, many domestic problems typical for the developing countries remain unaddressed. As a result, almost all global risks are considered as priorities by Chinese authorities. Measures to tackle global risks are regarded as a condition to strengthen country’s positions on the international arena and a tool for stimulating national development and maintaining high levels of economic growth.China addresses relevant global risks using best practices implemented in other countries and adapting them to national conditions. In economic area the country aims to strengthen its role in global governance, while maintaining high growth rates and reducing income inequality. China adopts the policy of non-interference and focuses on domestic geopolitical risks, such as organized crime, terrorism and corruption. To facilitate economic growth Chinese government takes measures to address the risks of infrastructure neglect and mismanaged urbanization. Apart from these risks, China is likely to face challenges resulting from population ageing and unmanaged migration. The author concludes that the government should undertake preventive measures to mitigate these risks in order to reduce the costs of addressing potential challenges in future.The study is implemented within the project of the Russian International Affairs Council and International Organizations Research Institute National Research University Higher School of Economics “Enhancing Effectiveness of Russia’s Participation in G20, G8 and BRICS”.

Since G20 establishment as a leaders` forum for economic governance, Mexico is an active actor in the forum. G20 Presidency in 2012 was a major opportunity to address the country`s priorities through G20 agenda and continue engagement with the partners in the institution. The article presents the analysis of Mexico positions on key global governance issues. The analysis has been carried out on the basis of G20 documents and data from national sources (laws, national programs, leaders’ statements etc). The research highlights Mexican priorities which define its positions in G20 and other international institutions.

During its G20 presidency Mexico included into the agenda such topics as food security, climate change, green growth, disasters risks management and tourism development which are have a great importance for country and its neighboring countries of the Caribbean region. Mexico pursues a proactive national policy on the traditional G20 agenda topics as job creation and fighting corruption because the country suffers from labour market imbalances and significant informal labour sector and corrupt local authorities. The policy on financial literacy and financial inclusion stimulation is implemented by the national government in accordance with the G20 commitments and recommendations.

Mexico has strongly committed to the trade facilitation; it signed 12 free trade agreements with 44 countries and implemented import tariffs reduction.

Mexico develops the bilateral relations with the G20 partners due to common interests and problems the countries faces. It also demonstrates Mexico`s aspiration to position itself as one of most influential counties not only in the Latin American region.

The study is implemented within the project of the Russian International Affairs Council and International Organizations Research Institute National Research University Higher School of Economics “Enhancing Effectiveness of Russia’s Participation in G20, G8 and BRICS”.

The article presents the analysis of Russia positions on key global governance issues. The analysis has been carried out on the basis of G20 documents and data from national sources (laws, national programs, leaders’ statements etc). The research highlights Russian priorities which define its positions in G20 and other international institutions.

Russia is the only state, which is a member of G8 and BRICS, multilateral institutions representing different countries groupings. Russia is also a permanent member of the UN Security Council. This enables to promote Russian national interests through these key global governance institutions. A sequence of presidencies in three major informal international institutions: G20, G8 and BRICS in 2012 – 2015, presents a unique opportunity to contribute considerably to global problems solving, but requires significant efforts to develop coordinated programs of these presidencies. Russia recognizes importance of the most global governance issues and has formulated positions on them. During its 2013 Presidency Russia will continue to focus G20 agenda on economic issues with particular emphasis on further fiscal consolidation, international financial institutions reform, financial inclusion and financial literacy. Environmental issues could be included in the G20 agenda, given the importance of major greenhouse gas emitters’ participation in the climate agreements. Russia could benefit from sustainable partnerships on enhancing energy efficiency as this could attract new technologies. G20 agenda on energy can be expanded by including issues of infrastructure, reliable supplies and access to energy. In the technological risks cluster an emphasis can be made on the infrastructure development. Inclusion of societal problems in the G20 agenda is less likely with the exception of water supply shortage.

The study is implemented within the project of the Russian International Affairs Council and International Organizations Research Institute National Research University Higher School of Economics “Enhancing Effectiveness of Russia’s Participation in G20, G8 and BRICS”.

The article presents the analysis of the USA positions on key global governance issues. The analysis has been carried out on the basis of G20 documents and data from national sources (laws, national programs, leaders’ statements etc). The research highlights the USA priorities which define its positions in G20 and other international institutions.

Due to its economic and political influence the USA plays one of the leading roles in such institutions as G8 and G20. In the aftermath of the financial and economic crisis and increasing competition from other emerging economies the USA is focused on recovering its economy and retaining leadership positions. The USA stance is characterized by a complex approach to global governance: impact of measures undertaken in one area is considered in other areas. Moreover, while implementing measures to tackle social and technological risks the USA tries to achieve positive economic effect. Thus, the USA interests are focused on sustainable economic growth in context of energy and geopolitical security. In the nearest future tackling global financial crisis consequences including measures for enhancing transparency and accountability, food and energy security and geopolitical stability will be the USA priorities for agendas in international fora. The USA continues to pay significant attention to combating world terrorism and crime.

The study is implemented within the project of the Russian International Affairs Council and International Organizations Research Institute National Research University Higher School of Economics “Enhancing Effectiveness of Russia’s Participation in G20, G8 and BRICS”.

The article analyses the South Africa Republic’s positions on key global governance issues. The analysis has been carried out on the basis of G20 documents and data from national sources (laws, national programs, leaders’ statements etc).

Given the priorities of South Africa’s development and the government’s stance on major international issues, the G20 agenda issues that appear to be of high importance to South Africa are: international financial institutions’ reform, international development assistance, and structural reforms.

The study revealed that despite the country’s status as a leading industrial power of Sub-Saharan Africa, South African Republic is still faced with the ramifications of economic and social inequalities, impeding its development and complicating social environment. Primary sector output still accounts for more than 60 percent of South Africa’s export. However, the government implements large infrastructure projects with an aim to overcome these obstacles, as well as making attempts to alleviate living conditions for a considerable part of the country’s population. In light of these challenges South Africa is likely to take interest in stimulating economic growth and creating new jobs including through structural reforms, promoting international development assistance (as a way to improve economic and social environment in the neighboring countries), and advancing the international financial institutions’ reform.

The study is implemented within the project of the Russian International Affairs Council and International Organizations Research Institute National Research University Higher School of Economics “Enhancing Effectiveness of Russia’s Participation in G20, G8 and BRICS”.

The article is devoted to growth and structural reform challenges in emerging economies, focusing on key dimensions of the structural reform agenda, including private investment climate, infrastructure, job creation, green growth, and trade reform. The author notes the centrality of structural reforms in developing countries in their transition from middle- to high-income levels and also the importance of fiscal consolidation in the advanced economies and subsequent redirection of part of global savings to finance infrastructure investment in developing economies. The analysis is underpinned by statistical data and analysis from the World Bank reports.

Restoring and sustaining growth according to Zia Qureshi requires structural reforms commitment by the governments in order to avoid the “middle-income trap”, caused by a lack of structural change and industrial upgrading in developing economies. The author envisages a scenario showing gains from fiscal consolidation in advanced economies and redirection of global savings to investment in infrastructure in developing countries. Despite the fact that structural reforms priority areas may differ from one country to another the evidence shows that infrastructure upgrading is a key catalyst for middle-term economic growth and can also cause the rise in short-term demand and other positive externalities.

The article suggests that in order to unlock the growth potential of the developing economies and promote economic growth in low-income countries the G20 should put more emphasis on structural reforms within its agenda.

The authors analyze BRICS cooperation as a possible resource for developing G20 and BRICS decisions on key areas of the international financial and economic architecture reform. The paper starts with assessment of the BRICS members positions on the main dimensions of the reform, including: changing the global system of reserve currencies; international financial institutions governance reform; replenishment of resources of multilateral development banks, creation of new financial safety nets, establishment of the BRICS development bank; effective surveillance system with account of systemic importance of participating economies; overcoming of financial imbalances. The study is based on the official documents of the BRICS authorities or positions stated by the national leaders and their representatives in international institutions. Given that the work was focused on the assessment of BRICS cooperation in Russia’s interests, each section of the paper begins with presentation of Russian priorities on respective reform issues, it then goes over to the priorities of the other BRICS countries. The study helped identify BRICS shared positions on key areas of the international financial and economic architecture reform, and possible action lines for future cooperation.

To evaluate how BRICS collective positions could impact G20 decisions, the authors did a comparative analysis of the BRICS and G20 decisions on international financial and economic architecture reform issues. The analysis revealed several turning points of BRICS coordination for G20 decision making process.

Summing up the findings the paper puts forward recommendations for BRICS cooperation agenda on the international financial and economic system.

The study is implemented within the project of the Russian International Affairs Council and International Organizations Research Institute National Research University Higher School of Economics “Enhancing Effectiveness of Russia’s Participation in G20, G8 and BRICS”.

The article discusses certain novels of Brazil antitrust legislation. The author focuses on the intellectual property rights, the ways and methods of issuing penalties for infringements of economic order and the trend for reducing a number of business practices that require the consent of Brazilian antitrust authorities. Considerable attention is paid to the novels of the new Brazilian Law on Protection of Competition of 2011. According to the author, the new novels are reducing the number of market action, the performance of which requires approval by the Governing Council on the protection of competition in Brazil, changes in the methods of calculating fines for anti-competitive behavior, etc. The author also notes that nevertheless may have violated antitrust laws through anticompetitive market action, the dual abuse during the purchase or use of intellectual property rights were not made until the end of 2010. As a result, the author comes to certain conclusions . On the one hand the novel of Protection of Competition Act of 2011 in Brazil aimed at liberalization of the regulatory framework in the field of creating and maintaining a competitive environment. On the other hand, there is filling in the gaps that existed in the previous law 1994 regarding the protection of intellectual property rights: the category of infringing competition horrible abuse of the rights of industrial or intellectual property rights to the technology and trademarks, which did not exist at the legislative level; has undergone changes in the direction of tightening the circle and intellectual property in respect of which extradition is now possible compulsory license.

Natural gas supplies are one of the main trade flows, connecting Russia and other European countries. A significant share of Russian gas in fuel balances of the leading European countries and large-scale projects implementation, led by the Russian companies, trigger European politicians’ concerns regarding potential use of the Russia’s gas industry as a policy tool. The article presents an analysis of the state of play of mutual economic integration potential which can be used to boost the EU and Russian economic growth.

The main thrust of the article is focused on a junction between economics and politics, providing for comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach.  The fundamental role of energy sector for European economies and increasing significance of natural gas for energy production stipulates rising political and economic concerns on both corporate and state levels. Finding out new ways for mutually beneficial cooperation can be set as a common target for the relations between Russia and leading West-European countries. Mitigation of political discrepancies and emphasis on general economic interests can be treated as a potential solution for achieving new level of economic cooperation.

Russian gas industry is considered as a strategic field of Trans-European interest, catalyzing economic relations due to its importance for the entire regional market of Wider Europe.

The regional architecture of East Asia has been transformed significantly in the recent years, especially since the Asian financial crisis of 1997–98. This article discusses the formation of a new integration structure-the East Asian Summit (EAS). The paper illustrates EAS participants’ views of its opportunities and then assesses the motives and objectives driving EAS cooperation. Special attention is paid to the interaction between the various bodies established under the auspices of ASEAN with the structures of global governance and, in particular, with the Group of Twenty. Developing process of new Asian regionalism has been generated by practical considerations, and in fact was a response to the challenges of globalization. Initially, this process proceeded without clear objectives, moreover, a number of issues for achieving consensus among the participants seemed unpromising . In this regard, it can be concluded that the most significant political demand to enhance cooperation in East Asia was a desire to improve regional relations, achieve lasting peace, stability and prosperity in the region. Thus, in this article the author makes an attempt to identify the main trends of regionalization in East Asia and look into the future contours of integration structures.