This note considers the application of a multi-donor trust fund (MDTF) to a possible Syrian transition. Firstly, it considers how an MDTF could act as the primary funding mechanism for short-term emergency support. Secondly, it considers how a longer-term fund could anticipate and support the rebuilding process until Syrian government revenue streams and institutions regain functionality.
It explores how a well-designed MDTF could help implement Syria’s institutional architecture and promote the establishment of streamlined transparent administrative processes. It argues that this could strengthen an interim authority’s credibility and aid smooth and effective transition. It then reviews previous efforts to establish MDTFs and identifies common elements in their success.