Last Updated on July 1, 2025 by Karl Thompson
International organisations play a crucial role in shaping development outcomes across the globe. From setting the rules of global trade to managing aid flows and coordinating humanitarian relief, institutions like the IMF, World Bank, and United Nations (UN) influence the lives of millions. In this post, we explore how these organisations contribute to development, their role in global governance, and the impact of Transnational Corporations (TNCs).
What Are Transnational Corporations (TNCs)?
Transnational Corporations are key players in the global economy. They operate in multiple countries and often have revenues larger than the GDP of developing nations. In the context of international organisations and development, TNCs influence investment, employment, and environmental outcomes across the Global South.
🔗 What Are Transnational Corporations? – Definition and Examples
Do TNCs Benefit Development?
Some argue that TNCs bring much-needed capital, technology, and jobs to poorer countries, contributing to economic growth and poverty reduction. They can also integrate local economies into global production chains.
🔗 How TNCs Benefit Development
How Do TNCs Harm Poor Countries?
On the flip side, critics argue that TNCs exploit cheap labour, avoid taxes, and damage the environment. Their influence often outweighs that of national governments, raising concerns about corporate power in global governance.
🔗 How TNCs Harm Poor Countries
The World Trade Organisation (WTO) and Development
The WTO governs global trade rules. Supporters claim it promotes fair competition, while critics argue it serves the interests of rich countries and multinational corporations. Its role in shaping global governance in development is hotly debated in sociology.
The World Bank and the IMF: Agents of Development or Control?
Both the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) provide loans and policy advice to developing countries. However, their structural adjustment programmes have been criticised for prioritising market liberalisation over social welfare.
🔗 The World Bank and International Development
Global Institutions and Power: Who Really Rules the World?
In this powerful documentary summary, John Pilger explores how global institutions, including the IMF, World Bank, and TNCs, wield enormous influence over the developing world—sometimes at the expense of democracy and human rights.
🔗 The New Rulers of the World – Summary
Conclusion: Global Governance in Development
The role of international organisations in development is complex. While they can provide vital funding, coordination, and expertise, they also reinforce global inequalities. Understanding their influence is key to a deeper sociological analysis of global governance and the development process.
Related Topics: Aid, Trade and Global Development in A Level Sociology
While this page has focused on the role of international organisations in development, it’s important to recognise that Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and national governments are also major providers of aid, especially in humanitarian and long-term development contexts. To explore how aid and trade contribute to development, visit my in-depth guide here:
👉 Aid, Trade and Development – Key Actors and Strategies
For a full overview of the Global Development topic within A-level Sociology, including key theories, indicators of development, and exam-style practice, check out the main revision hub:
👉 Globalisation and Global Development – A-Level Sociology Revision