ABSTRACT
Over the past several decades law reform has moved from the periphery of multilateral development banks (MDBs) activity to being incorporated into the strategies, policies, and implementation modalities of several of the major MDBs. This chapter tracks this evolution and explains the initial reticence and the reasons for the change of heart. It explores how MDBs have come to view their law reform mandate in holistic development terms and how that reform is delivered. The chapter contrasts law reform as conceived by MDBs with international and national conceptions. It concludes by asking whether MDB efforts to build state capacity would be enhanced by fostering law commissions in developing states.
