Given that a third of the world’s poor live in fragile states, it is essential to consider whether and how processes of empowerment and pro-poor growth might differ in fragile contexts and how donors might support these processes. There is therefore a need to carefully analyse the specific weaknesses and failings of each “fragile” state and society in order to provide appropriate support. Societies where conflict and deprivation have weakened people’s physical and intellectual capabilities e.g. low levels of education, skills, poor health etc. Societies where conflict and deprivation have weakened co-operation and collective action and there may be significant levels of mistrust between groups.