The coherence and effectiveness of engagement with the world.s .fragile and conflict-affected states..beyond ethical imperatives and geo-strategic considerations.turns on answers to two vexing questions. First, on what defensible basis is any given countr

The main aim of this article is to identify key external and internal factors that are capable of impacting and thus influencing directly or indirectly state performance in Southeast Asia with special emphasis on Myanmar, Vietnam and Singapore. The theoretical aim is to develop a framework for...

Recent development cooperation with Guinea-Bissau, focusing on good governance, statebuilding and conflict prevention, did not contribute to democratization nor to the stabilization of volatile political, military and economic structures. The portrayal of Guinea- Bissau as a failed...

Donors face distinct challenges in operating in fragile states and supporting the building of state capacity. This paper explores one type of assistance - the 'embedding' of highly-skilled staff members within local government agencies - through a unique case study of Finn Church Aid's...

Recent research highlights the considerable potential of industrial policy to support structural transformation in sub-Saharan Africa. Given the importance of the state in industrial policy, this paper considers the implications for these discussions of recent work on state fragility. It argues...