Can fragility in countries be addressed outside of politics?
Have the ‘good intentions’ of the international community and institutions such as the World Bank hindered progress in countries and territories vulnerable to instability and violence? The case of the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT) suggests a resounding ‘yes’.
In addressing what has come to be known as ‘fragility’, international donors have remained faithful to an approach that is devoid of any political context. Instead their approach emphasizes two main themes: quantitative, indicator-based evidence over ideology in influencing and shaping policies; and the power of being pro-active, positive and not defensive.