Is the IMF Fit for Purpose Amid a Global Debt Crisis?
A Guardian Audio Long Read examines the role and relevance of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) during the worst debt crisis in decades. The piece explores widespread criticism of the IMF, with many nations perceiving it as overbearing or neocolonial, which has led them to seek financial assistance elsewhere.
Originally produced in 2022, the article has been republished in 2025 from the Guardian's archive with new introductions by the authors. It discusses calls for the establishment of a global lender of last resort to provide more effective debt relief and crisis management.
The analysis covers key topics including the IMF's involvement in debt relief, financial crises, and the implications for the global economy, highlighting countries such as China and Indonesia and entities like the World Bank.
Written by Jamie Martin and read by Kelly Burke, the production was originally scored by Jessica Beck with additions by Rachel Porter, and executive produced by Ellie Bury. The piece was first published on Wednesday, 10 December 2025 at 06:00 CET and last modified on Friday, 12 December 2025 at 09:27 CET.
