Publication date: 2008

The international community is increasingly engaging in fragile and conflict-affected states – countries where the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) are a distant prospect and where special efforts from donors are needed. The establishment of effective and durable public services is a first priority if donors and partner countries are to make more rapid progress towards the MDGs and advance the long-term process of state building. Yet, the wide range of policy, technical and political issues in each specific country situation makes this a complex task and requires tailored approaches.

This report is based on the work that the DAC Fragile States Group conducted on service delivery in fragile situations in 2005-2006. It provides an understanding of the mutual influence of state fragility and service delivery and offers guidance to donors wishing to strengthen service provision and governance in these states. Based on an analysis of the major policy issues and approaches available, the paper identifies the challenges and dilemmas the international community and its partners face in fragile settings. It concludes with a set of policy lessons and recommendations intended to help donors better target their interventions.
 

New Publication: Service Delivery in Fragile Situations (pdf, 727 kB)