WASHINGTON, December 29, 2011—The World Bank shares the grave concern, already expressed by other friends of Guinea Bissau, about the current situation in the country. The 2011 World Development Report on Conflict, Security and Development—and indeed Guinea Bissau's own experience over decades—shows how insecurity disrupts development and traps countries in cycles of violence, with devastating consequences for generations of citizens, including young people, women and children.
“We call on all leaders to peacefully resolve their differences, and to renew their effort to build strong and credible institutions of governance that put first the fundamental need of citizens for improved economic opportunity, for example, through better education and health services, and jobs,” said Obiageli K. Ezekwesili, World Bank Vice President for Africa.
The current crisis puts a lot at stake. Over the last two years, the country began an economic turnaround, received international debt relief, and adopted a strategy that could lift thousands out of poverty over the next decade.
The World Bank remains strongly committed to supporting the economic development of Guinea Bissau, and therefore encourages all leaders and citizens to respect the constitution and the rule of law. We look forward to a speedy resolution of the unrest so that the nation can continue working toward an inclusive, peaceful, stable and prosperous future.
