The World Bank Group’s engagement in Kosovo dates back to 1999, when the institution joined international efforts to support Kosovo’s reconstruction and recovery and opened a field office in the country. Kosovo became a full member of the World Bank Group with representation on its governing Board and full access to financing and services in June 2009. The World Bank initially focused on assessing reconstruction needs and developed a recovery program that provided the basis for the mobilization of over $2 billion in donor assistance at three donor conferences co-chaired with the European Commission.

The World Bank Group’s partnership with Kosovo grew and changed over the years. Early on, the engagement centered around post-conflict reconstruction with a focus on normalization of life and the economy. This transformed into a focus on institution-building and the deepening of the fundamentals for a market economy. Today, the World Bank is striving to strengthen the competitiveness of private sector led economy; improve the quality and efficiency of public services, in particular those aimed at building and protecting human capital; and strengthen fiscal and environmental resilience and sustainability.

The World Bank program in Kosovo currently includes 11 projects totaling $376.5 million. The most recent projects will support investments that facilitate trade and more efficient transport and support financial stability and inclusion.

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