Newly Released Oral History Transcripts

Pioneering sociologist at the World Bank, Koch-Weser advanced indigenous protection and environmental policies and shaped early social and environmental safeguards in development projects.

Laporte recounts a global career in development, leading education and knowledge initiatives while championing collaboration, mentorship, and institutional transformation.

Devarajan reflects on his career, advocating for policy transparency and institutional reform and addressing global challenges like climate change and pandemics.

Gillette's interview explores staff experiences during President McNamara’s presidency, capturing the social history and organizational culture of the institution from 1968 to 1981.

The interview covers Donaldson's career at the World Bank Group during President McNamara's tenure, focusing on rural development and the mechanization debate.

Dalla reflects on his World Bank Group career, discussing development finance evolution, project work, and the impact of Bank policies during transformative years.

Bottelier explores his early work in Zambia and Ethiopia, his involvement in East and West African economic development, and his leadership roles in Indonesia and China. 

Kavalsky describes the World Bank Group’s shift toward poverty reduction, data-driven management, and market-based solutions under President McNamara.