This topic guide from the Governance and Social Development Resource Centre (GSDRC) provides an introduction to fragile states. It provides links to some of the most recent donor, practitioner and academic literature in this area. The central questions explored in the guide are ‘what do we know about fragile states?’ and ‘how can this knowledge be used so that the international community can best engage in fragile states?’
The information in this topic guide is arranged around the following areas:
- Terms and definitions
- Causes and characteristics
- Donor engagement
- Enhancing aid effectiveness
- Service delivery
- Democracy and elections
- Decentralisation
- Case studies and success stories
Each area of the topic guide includes a definition of the area and provides access to key readings. In some cases links to relevant organisations are also provided.