USAID Fragile States Strategy - The Air University

• Infrastructure deficits in many fragilestates are profound. These deficits includebroken transportation systems,absent telecommunications, and alack of other basic means to integratesociety and spur economic growth.Only with recent responses in Afghanistanand Iraq is USAID buildingup its surge capacity to respondto these deficits.• A system for early strategic warningthat prompts rapid response to fragilestates showing vulnerability to failureis vital. USAID lacks a predictablesystem and processes for identifyingthe sources of fragility.• Integrated analysis, response strategiesand operations, and shared responsibilityfor decisions are required.USAID’s attempts at integration andshared responsibility have varied fromcrisis to crisis, and some opportunitieshave been missed.• The complex challenges of fragilestates demand coherence among thevarious departments and agencies ofthe U.S. Government and partnershipwith other donors. To respondto the increasing complexity of fragilestates, consistent interagency (and,where possible, interdonor) venuesfor integrated monitoring and actionare required.• Fragile states require a response thatis simultaneously robust and flexible.This response requires a stablefunding source as well as flexibility indeploying funds. It also must includestaff, implementation capabilities,and field platforms specific to fragilestates. An integrated plan to assurethis robust and flexible response iscurrently lacking.18 FRAGILE STATES STRATEGY