Resource information
This report evaluates the outcomes of
World Bank Group support to Liberia from its post-war
reengagement in 2003 through 2011. The country has moved
from total disarray to a solid foundation for inclusive
development. Although development has not moved forward as
quickly as hoped, substantial progress has been made. Public
finance and key institutions have been rebuilt; crucial
transport facilities have been restored; and hospitals,
schools, and universities are operating. The debilitating
burden of massive external debt has been eliminated.
Although the government deserves most of the credit, this
success would not have been possible without external
development and security partners, including the World Bank
Group. Regarding outcomes, the rebuilding of public
institutions has seen substantial progress, with important
achievements in restoring public finances and reforming the
civil service. Regarding the rehabilitation of
infrastructure, the World Bank Group has helped improve the
conditions of roads, ports, power supply, and water and
sanitation. However, World Bank Group financial support has
been relatively modest with regard to facilitating growth,
but it has helped with policy advice and in filling gaps
left by other partners. With regard to the three
cross-cutting themes of Bank Group strategy, some effective
programs were carried out, including capacity development at
several core public finance-related agencies. However, the
integration of these themes across World Bank Group
interventions, which was the underlying intent, still needs
a vision and better articulated strategy. Finally, the Bank
and the International Monetary Fund led efforts to reduce
Liberia's inherited external debt burden under the
enhanced Highly-Indebted Poor Country Initiative and the
Multi-lateral Debt Relief Initiative mechanisms.
