Development aid fell by 4% in real terms in 2012, following a 2% fall in 2011. The continuing financial crisis and euro zone turmoil has led several governments to tighten their budgets, which has had a direct impact on aid to poor countries. There is also a noticeable shift in aid away from the poorest countries and towards middle-income countries. A moderate recovery in aid levels is expected in 2013.

Rica has deposited its instrument of ratification of the Convention on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters, the most comprehensive multilateral agreement available for tax-cooperation and exchange of information.

Costa Rica ha depositado su instrumento de ratificación del Convenio sobre asistencia administrativa mutua en el ámbito de la fiscalidad, el acuerdo multilateral más amplio que existe en lo referente a cooperación fiscal e intercambio de información.

The OECD’s latest economic survey of Slovenia – to be published on Tuesday 9 April 2013 - looks at the action needed to pull the country out of recession and tackle the banking crisis. It also looks at improving public finances and strengthening growth over the long term.

Malaysia has joined the OECD system for the Mutual Acceptance of Data (MAD) in the Assessment of Chemicals, ensuring that its non-clinical safety data related to the protection of human health and the environment will be accepted by all 40 countries adhering to MAD.

The Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes (referred to as "the Global Forum"), has released its peer review reports for Belize, Finland, Iceland, Nauru, Poland, Portugal, Sweden and Turkey.

Education systems around the world are increasingly measuring the performance of teachers and schools as part of their drive to help students do better and improve results. Rising demand for higher education standards and a trend towards greater school autonomy in some countries are among the factors behind this new focus, according to a new OECD report.

The Danish central government and regions are leading international efforts to reform hospital systems, improving quality and safety by gathering specialists into major hospitals and closing smaller ones.

The OECD’s latest Economic Survey of Japan, to be published on Tuesday 23 April 2013, discusses how the country can best meet the challenges of restoring public finances and boosting growth.

OECD Secretary-General Angel Gurria has presented a report to G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors that highlights measures to ensure that all taxpayers pay their fair share.