Fragile states and situations of fragility: France’s policy paper

How important are fragile states and situations of fragility? Increasingly, if one considers the time devoted to the issue in international fora. Over the last few years - all the more so since the 9/11 attacks - situations at risk of deteriorating have warranted more and more attention to prevent crises from breaking out, alongside situations of post-conflict.

Bilateral (DFID and USAID) and ever more multilateral organisations - the World Bank and the African Development Bank in particular - have developed, or are developing, instruments aimed specifically at fragile states and situations of fragility. Also, the OECD has adopted principles for good engagement in these states. [1] Portugal, at the helm of the EU during 2007’s second half, stated that fragile states are a priority in implementing the EU Strategy for Africa.

At times, our partners in the South are critical of this notion coined by donors. But they have not rejected it entirely. In fact, some even use it - admittedly more often than not those that do happen to be in the most difficult situations. Only, while this issue is of interest, an international definition of fragile states still does not exist. At best, most agree that fragile states have unique characteristics: they find it hard to provide law and order and guarantee their citizens’ security, ensure the rule of law and efficient governance (especially in terms of public finance management), deliver MDGestablished social services, and underpin regional and international order and stability.

In light of this, France started a debate on fragile states at national level by creating an interdepartmental working group and with selected African partners in the Franc Zone. And some documents that the Interdepartmental Committee for International Cooperation and Development (CICID) approved are especially relevant in situations of fragility, viz. the Governance Strategy, the Budget Support Strategy and sector strategies, and the working paper on fighting corruption. The ensuing discussions yielded the main components of France’s stance when it comes to fragile states and situations of fragility.

Fragile states and situations of fragility: France’s policy paper (PDF, 5.6 Mb)