Fragile states 2013: Resource flows and trends in a shifting world

This report asks and answers 10 questions, grouped into three chapters. The first chapter takes stock of the evolution
of fragility as a concept. The second chapter analyses financial flows to and within fragile states between 2000 and 2010, with a special focus on the period following the food, fuel and financial crisis (2008-10). The third chapter points to trends and issues that are likely to shape fragility in the years to come.

In spite of this shift in income level, poverty remains concentrated in fragile states. Addressing fragility as a driver of poverty and instability requires a more robust understanding of fragility, its causes and dimensions. In particular, it requires approaching and addressing fragility as a deeply political issue centred on the social contract between the state and society, and it requires greater consideration of the role of stress factors (internal or external). The report studies financial flows: to donor darlings, the need to reform tax structures and the effect of remittances. It recommends that the future research agenda should adopt a more robust and comprehensive approach to understanding fragility, considering both internal and external stress factors. Research on fragility should be more forwardlooking and take into account megatrends and scenario planning.

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development 2012

The mission of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is to promote policies that will improve the economic and social well-being of people around the world. The OECD provides a forum in which governments can work together to share experiences and seek solutions to common problems. We work with governments to understand what drives economic, social and environmental change. We measure productivity and global flows of trade and investment.