Overview

Center for Global Development (CGD) is an independent, non-profit policy research organisation established in 2001. It is headquartered in Washington, D.C., with a presence in London, and works to reduce global poverty and improve lives through rigorous economic research and practical policy advice. CGD describes its approach as evidence-based and focused on shaping better policy and practice by key decision-makers worldwide.

Mission and focus areas

CGD’s mission is to drive better global development outcomes by producing independent research that informs policy change and practical action. Its core goals include reducing poverty and inequality, improving global health, shaping sustainable development finance, and addressing key issues such as climate change, migration and education. The organisation promotes evidence-led policy thinking and supports sustainable development approaches that align with global goals. CGD’s work touches on sustainable development finance, which includes exploring how development finance and climate finance can be more effective, transparent and aligned with long-term development objectives.

Structure and governance

CGD operates with a leadership and governance framework that includes a board of directors and a team of researchers and staff based across its offices. Its fellowship and staff programmes engage experts in economic research and policy analysis. CGD Europe, established in 2011 as a separate charity, complements the main organisation’s work with a distinct board, expanding its engagement within the European policy community. CGD’s operations are non-partisan, and its research recommendations are not influenced by funders.

Programs and offerings

CGD produces a wide range of research outputs, including policy papers, reports, working papers and briefs. It also hosts events, workshops and conferences that convene policymakers, experts and practitioners to debate global development challenges. CGD’s resources support knowledge sharing on topics like global health policy, sustainable finance, measuring development effectiveness, and migration. Its distinctive offerings include tools such as the Commitment to Development Index, which ranks countries on development-friendly policies. These resources serve academics, policymakers and practitioners seeking evidence to inform strategic decisions.

CGD’s mission

The Center for Global Development works to reduce global poverty and improve lives through innovative economic research that drives better policy and practice by the world’s top decision makers.

We generate new ideas, actionable policy proposals, and independent research, and spark critical global development conversations.

We focus on the intersection of developing countries and the governments, institutions, and corporations that can help them deliver the greatest progress.

Our scholars conduct rigorous, impartial analysis, informed by evidence and experts from around the world, to design practical policy solutions and spur intellectual debate.