This much-needed and highly accessible introduction to the World Economic Forum (WEF) provides the reader with a clear understanding of this key institution in world affairs. This new book explores unique aspects of the WEF and highlights contemporary issues and debates in international studies: It shows how the WEF differs from other global institutions in several key respects. Founded to promote the agreed interests of its membership, the WEF has been forced by civil society not only to revise its remit, but also to broaden participation in WEF activities. This book probes a range of key areas: * History and development* Institutional mechanisms* WEF in Contemporary Global Society* Current debates in historical perspective* Key critics and criticisms* Emerging issues and future direction With clear and concise sections, including boxes containing key ideas and arguments, the reader is able to quickly build a well-rounded understanding of this major institution. A fully annotated bibliography provides ideas for future reading and research. This is an essential book for all students of international relations, politics and world affairs and history.

1. A Multi-Stakeholder Approach: An Historical Overview 2. Purposes Public and Private: How the Forum Works 3. The Forum in Contemporary Global Society: Theoretical Questions 4. Generating Knowledge Today: WEF Meetings in 2005 5. Discourse, Research and Action: Technology and the Initiatives 6. Engaging the Critics 7. The Forum Looking Ahead