This informative book outlines how, since decolonization, several global regimes have granted ‘disadvantaged’ members exemptions, yet the rise of Brazil, India, China, and other countries has led to pressure to adjust these rights to new economic realities. Based on case studies in global trade, climate, and health governance, this groundbreaking book comparatively assesses the evolution of differential treatment across global governance, highlighting how treating all developing countries as a single group has gradually been replaced with a more nuanced approach. Chapters cover differentiated responsibilities in the climate regime, capacity, willingness and need in the health regime, and special and differential treatment in the World Trade Organization (WTO).

For academics, researchers and students specializing in international economics, law and politics, international political economy, and public policy, this book will be a vital read. Providing in-depth comparative case studies, it will also be of interest to practitioners and policymakers working in international development organizations.