A World Bank Group Strategy for Engaging in Fragility, Conflict and Violence Affected Settings (2026-2030)

Overview & Synopsis

The 2025 IEG evaluation of the FY20–25 FCV Strategy suggests that we need to change to more consistently translate ambitions into operational outcomes and impact in FCV affected countries. The evaluation found that the Strategy provided a comprehensive framework spanning prevention, engagement during conflict, transition support, and mitigation of spillovers, and enabled us to strengthen diagnostics, scale financing, and remain engaged in highly volatile contexts. It noted that our financing significantly increased in support of FCV-affected economies through IDA/IBRD, IFC, and MIGA. The report notes many things that we have done well, which we will continue to do. At the same time, the evaluation highlighted gaps in achieving lasting results, translating improved diagnostics into portfolio adaptation, tracking fragility-related outcomes, and scaling up private sector impact. It also highlighted persistent internal challenges, including with regard to staffing in FCV settings. These lessons inform four strategic shifts under the Strategy, which focus on what we need to do differently: A. Anticipate better; B. Adopt a differentiated approach; C. Deliver as One WBG on the jobs agenda; and D. Enhance the WBG knowledge, operational toolkit, partnerships, and staffing.