Fragile states strategy

This strategy sets out how USAID can most effectively respond to fragile states. The strategy’s overall goal is to guide USAID’s efforts in reversing decline in fragile states and advancing their recovery to a stage where transformational development progress is possible.

The strategy identifies the ways that fragile states differ from those that are stable and able to pursue long-term development. It also identifies strategic priorities for fragile states and initial directions for USAID programming. Finally, the strategy focuses on management and administrative changes needed and outlines a new business model for USAID’s operations in fragile states.

The strategy recommends:

• a better understanding of the sources of fragility and for setting priorities, such as stability, security, reform, and capacity
• early action when fragile states show vulnerability
• a focused response with programmes strategically oriented to the sources and symptoms of fragility
• an operational approach - a fragile states business model - that provides for rational strategic planning, budgetary flexibility, responsive administrative systems, and greater staff expertise.