Building back better: Evaluation insights on reconstructing the private sector in fragile and conflict-affected contexts

The European Bank of Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is working in nearly 40 economies across three continents, many of which are affected by conflict and fragility. Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, the EBRD has been working in a dramatically challenging and rapidly evolving operational context. Large-scale war and destruction in Ukraine, its significant negative effects for neighbouring countries, and its disruptions for the supply chains and markets are particularly damaging for private sector. Bank’s clients, facing relocations, loss of assets, partial curtailment of operations and dramatic market changes, require bespoke type of financing and advice, often packaged together with the emergency support and subsidies.

This fifth issue of the “Connecting the Dots” series proposes independent evaluation insights from EBRD as well as from 18 International Financial Institutions (IFIs) and Development Financial institutions (DFIs). It covers a range of important elements of reconstruction efforts in conflict-affected countries regarding private sector support, ranging from strategic approach to practical toolkit of Recovery and Reconstruction.