ETRSI Subject Files

67279

1956-1993

series

textual records

5 linear feet of textual records.

English

Credit ceilings, External debt, Adjustment process, Commercial credit, Conditionality, Trade liberalization

Series is open according to the Archives Access Policy. Files will be screened by reference staff for any time restrictions.

Series contains general subject files maintained by the Stand-By Policies Division of the Exchange and Trade Relations Department. The records generally document the major functions and operations of the Division with regards to Stand-By Arrangements and coordination of relations with the United Nations. With regards to the former, the then Stabilization Policies Division was charged with coordinating the updating of the computer-based SBA (Stand-By Arrangements) Information System which contained information for all Stand-By Arrangements. This information, intended to assist area department staff with their work, was collated by the Division with assistance from area departments who were asked to complete coding forms providing information on a respective member country. Records also demonstrate the Division's role in coordinating the IMF's relations with the United Nations. For example, in 1984 UNICEF approached the IMF to assist it with a study. UNICEF proposed changes in the IMF's policies and practices to counteract the impact of adverse economic circumstances on impoverished children and hoped to collaborate with the IMF by using the Article IV consultations process as an entry point into the most effected countries. Early records consist of internal memoranda, "memorandum for files", and copies of draft papers generated and maintained by Azizali Mohammed (Division Chief) and Michael Dakolias (Economist) on the subject of commercial credits and credit ceilings. Staff of the Stabilization Policies Division served as the IMF representative at meetings held by UNCTAD and OECD regarding commercial credits, in particular the distinction between commercial credits and development aid. Other topics covered in the files include conditionality, quantitative performance criteria and adjustment. Later files include contributions of the Stand-By Policies Division for G-10 Reports; speaking notes for the Managing Director for G-10 Meetings; discussion of a proposed review of issues raised by G-10 and G-24; and the role of the IMF and World Bank in the context of debt strategy. Files are arranged alphabetically and then in reverse chronological order.