Fragile states

Whether out of fear of negative spillover effects, out of an interest in new growth markets, or out of a desire to fight poverty and defend human rights, Western countries will continue to monitor and try to influence developments in fragile states and regions—regardless of the precise label these states will receive in the future.

In giving shape to their commitment, however, they must take into account the fact that the rules of the game are currently being rewritten and that governments of fragile states will probably increasingly determine on their own the conditions governing the commitment.