A join presentation by WBG History and Economics Thematic Groups
This event is the fourth in a series of nine panel discussions in 2025-2026, timed to coincide with the 30th anniversary of Jim Wolfensohn’s accession to the presidency. Wolfensohn reframed debt relief as a moral and developmental imperative. He expanded and accelerated HIPC, securing G7 backing for deeper, faster relief. Crafting HIPC was a delicate initiative, one that first met with substantial resistance.
The panel will include Ravi Kanbur, who worked with Jim Wolfensohn on the landmark HIPC initiative of the late 1990s/early 2000s; Masood Ahmed, Axel van Trotsenburg, who were involved in implementation; and Carmen Reinhart, who has been working on today’s debt crisis.
Moderator: Shanta Devarajan, Chair, Economics Thematic Group
Registrations:
In-Person (MC 8 – 100)
Register here to join virtually by Webex!
Virtual Participation Details
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Meeting number: 2315 325 1570
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