Road Reconstruction in Solomon Islands
In 1999 and 2000, roads and bridges in Solomon Islands were severely damaged as a result of ethnic tensions. ADB's Post-Conflict Emergency Rehabilitation Project resulted not only in the timely reconstruction of roads and bridges but also led to stronger cooperation between the government, ADB, AusAID and NZAID on transport development, which continues to this day.

To help countries exit from conflict and to strengthen institutions necessary for long-term development, ADB has to consider changes that affect both internal processes and interactions with clients and stakeholders.

Developing capacity and promoting good governance

In fragile settings, ADB's priority is to strengthen the capacity of the state to perform its core functions and deliver basic services. ADB supports community-driven development operations and partnerships with NGOs to deliver quick gains, stimulate demand for good governance and promote engagement between citizen and state.

Conducting analytic work

ADB also undertakes political economy studies and conflict assessments to ensure that its country partnership strategies address root causes of fragility. In post-conflict situations, ADB aligns with transitional results frameworks and joint needs assessments that respond to the short-term reconstruction and peace-building efforts of the country. In Nepal, for example, ADB is piloting the use of "a peace filter" to assess the potential impact of ADB projects on conflict and peace-building at the community level.

Coordinating with development partners

Donor coordination is crucial to achieving progress in fragile situations. ADB leads or participates in joint initiatives such as sector-wide approaches (see: Supporting Transport Sector Development in the Solomon Islands) and joint country partnership strategies (see: Tajikistan Joint Country Partnership Strategy 2010-2012). In small Pacific countries like Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu, ADB has established joint coordination offices with the World Bank.

Adapting to changing circumstances

Since flexibility is essential, relaxation of business processes requirements can be considered on a case-by-case basis, without compromising prudent policies and safeguards. ADB's Disaster and Emergency Assistance Policy can also be used to provide a quick response to support post-conflict reconstruction. ADB's work in Georgia, conducted jointly with the United Nations, European Community, and World Bank, is one example.