This edition of the World Investment Report provides valuable analysis that can inform global discussions
on how to accelerate progress toward the Millennium Development Goals and shape a long-range vision
for a more sustainable future beyond 2015.
The Report reveals an encouraging trend: after a decline in 2012, global foreign direct investment flows
rose by 9 per cent in 2013, with growth expected to continue in the years to come. This demonstrates the
great potential of international investment, along with other financial resources, to help reach the goals of
a post-2015 agenda for sustainable development. Transnational corporations can support this effort by
creating decent jobs, generating exports, promoting rights, respecting the environment, encouraging local
content, paying fair taxes and transferring capital, technology and business contacts to spur development.
This year’s World Investment Report offers a global action plan for galvanizing the role of businesses in
achieving future sustainable development goals, and enhancing the private sector’s positive economic, social and environmental impacts. The Report identifies the financing gap, especially in vulnerable economies, assesses the primary sources of funds for bridging the gap, and proposes policy options for the future.