For those documents that are not available for download in PDF, please contact the Social Finance Programme secretariat for a copy: SFP@ilo.org

Introduction to Microfinance in Conflict-Affected Communities. Training Manual
P. Alidri, J. van Doorn, M. El-Zoghbi, M. Houtart, D. Larson, G. Nagarajan and C. Tsilikounas. Ed. by R. Berold. ILO/UNHCR, 2002.

The result of a joint effort by the ILO and UNHCR, this training manual offers an overview on microfinance programmes in conflict-affected countries. It provides guidance to policy-makers and practitioners who have to decide when microfinance is appropriate for a population affected by conflict. It also explains how to analyse the demand for microfinance and how to proceed in designing, implementing and managing sustainable microfinance programmes. Other livelihood creations activities such as grants, training programmes and employment services that can be promoted as an alternative or supplement to microfinance, are also covered. The manual contains numerous useful checklists and real-life examples.
(Priced publication, US$ 18.95/Sw. frs. 30.-)

Microfinance in post-conflict countries: Towards a Common Framework for Action - (pdf 135 Kb)
(Final report of the workshop), ILO.

Part of response to conflicts and crisis situation in general is to ensure that the population affected is protected and given the tolls and assets to reconstruct livelihoods. Obviously this presupposes functioning financial circuits that are accessible and efficient.

Microfinance plays an important role in this process, because it helps to reconstitute assets, it repairs or mobilizes social capital and it gives a kick-start to income-generating activities, it was also considered useful to bring together actors involved in this field, to exchange experiences and to move towards specific guidelines and a framework for action within the context of microfinance in post-conflict countries.

The conference examined the most suitable points in time for MF interventions, the best type of implementing agency, the funding requirements for capitalization and operational costs, the scope and limitation of targeting, the range of microfinance services and the role of donors.

Microfinance in Post-Conflict Countries. Towards Guiding Principles for Action - (pdf 119 Kb)
(background paper of a workshop held in September 1999), Geetha Nagarajan, ILO.