Statement by Elisabeth Svantesson at the 113th Meeting of the Development Committee on April 16, 2026

Overview & Synopsis

This statement, delivered by Elisabeth Svantesson, Chair of the Development Committee, reflects the views of the majority of members following the Committee’s 113th meeting held on April 16, 2026. It highlights mounting challenges facing the global economy amid repeated shocks from conflicts, heightened uncertainty, constrained policy space, and weakened international cooperation, which disproportionately affect the poorest and most vulnerable. The statement underscores the importance of timely, flexible, and well‑anchored policy responses, supported by credible frameworks and strengthened multilateral cooperation, and reiterates that ending wars and securing lasting peace remain essential for sustainable growth and stability. Members commend the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund for the scale, speed, and effectiveness of their crisis responses and for continued collaboration with development partners. The Committee strongly supports the World Bank Group’s renewed focus on job creation through investment in infrastructure and human capital, improvements in the business environment, and mobilization of private capital. Emphasis is placed on reforms that strengthen debt sustainability, domestic resource mobilization, governance, and anticorruption efforts, while promoting gender equality and inclusion. The statement welcomes institutional reforms to enhance efficiency and impact, sectoral initiatives to expand access to energy, food security, health, water, and digital services, and continued support for countries affected by fragility, conflict, and violence. It reaffirms commitment to multilateralism, partnerships, and ambitious delivery under IDA21.