TWN’s objectives are to deepen the understanding of the development dilemmas and challenges facing developing countries and to contribute to policy changes in pursuit of just, equitable and ecologically sustainable development.

To achieve these objectives TWN conducts research on economic, social and environmental issues pertaining to the South; publishes books and magazines; organises and participates in conferences, seminars and workshops; and provides a platform representing broadly Third World interests and perspectives at international fora such as United Nations agencies, conferences and processes, WTO , the World Bank and IMF. 

The TWN website contains information on economics, environment and other issues from a development perspective. There is also a dedicated website for biosafety, finance and development and bilateral free trade agreements.