This paper analyzes the impact of the global crisis on six South-Eastern European countries. The main objective is to compare macro-financial conditions and policies in the run-up to the crisis as well as to compare the policy responses to it, so as to highlight, inter alia, possible...

This paper discusses key findings of the Second Review Under the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility for Burkina Faso. All quantitative performance criteria (PC) were met. The indicative floor on social expenditures was not achieved, mainly because of capacity weaknesses in implementing...

The Salvadoran economy was severely affected by the global economic slowdown. Further strengthening the economy’s growth prospects and reducing poverty will depend on a durable fiscal consolidation effort and improvements in the investment climate through continued commitment to...

Yemen is confronted with a range of difficult economic challenges. The reduction in oil revenues in the past year has affected the Yemeni economy through a set of direct and indirect channels. The loss of oil revenue contributed to a record fiscal deficit of about 10 percent of GDP in 2009,...

This 2010 Article IV Consultation highlights that the authorities’ adjustment program has contributed to limiting the fallout of the global crisis on Serbia. Although the output slump has been limited relative to regional peers, the decline in domestic demand has been significant,...

Real regional gross domestic product (GDP) contracted by 6 percent in 2009, reflecting a collapse in tourist arrivals and foreign direct investment (FDI)-financed construction activity. The global financial and economic crisis has also exposed areas of significant weaknesses, notwithstanding...

The Moldovan economy is recovering steadily following the recession triggered by the global crisis. The key challenge is to ensure fiscal, financial, and external sustainability while igniting new engines of growth. Monetary policy strikes the right balance between keeping inflation low and...

The 2011 Article IV Consultation report concludes that Belize has weathered the financial crisis relatively well when compared with Caribbean Community peers. Executive Directors have commended the authorities for their macroeconomic management, which enabled Belize to weather the financial...

Economic activity appears to be recovering, underpinned by a strong policy response. Fiscal consolidation will be crucial to maintain debt sustainability and support the envisaged external adjustment over the medium term. Sound monetary and exchange rate policies are essential to maintain...

The global economic and financial crisis found the economy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in a vulnerable position. The government put together a comprehensive program supported by the International Monetary Fund. The stabilization program has helped mitigate the impact of the global financial crisis...