The book reveals, for the first time, the origins, growth and complex role of the OECD as it celebrates its fiftieth anniversary, showing how it has adapted – for the most part successfully – to the changing needs of its members, both large and small.

Peter Carroll and Aynsley Kellow provide a comprehensive account and analysis of the origins, development and, most intriguingly, the recent reforms that characterise the OECD. They argue that this increasingly complex organisation has fulfilled its design to be an adaptive, learning organisation and explore how the OECD has spread its wings beyond its European and North American roots to become an increasingly influential body in global governance. Topical chapters include the OECD’s work on health and the environment, relations with international, intergovernmental organisations, the OECD’s structure and also the key processes.

This fascinating book will be warmly welcomed by academics, researchers and postgraduate students in a wide range of fields including international relations, international business, political science, public policy and public administration. Public servants in national departments and agencies – particularly those with significant international activities – will also find the book to be of great interest, as will professionals within international organisations such as IMF, World Bank, EU, UN and (of course) the OECD itself.