Algiers, Algeria, 20 May 2025: The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has launched its 2025 Resilience Report, which examines how climate change and conflict affect fragile Member Countries, during the Group’s Annual Meetings in Algiers. High-level officials and development experts explored how Member Countries can reduce their reliance on commodities and build more stable, resilient economies.

Speaking at the session, IsDB Vice-President for Operations, Dr. Rami Ahmad, painted a hopeful picture, stressing that many Member Countries, currently dependent on oil, gas, and raw materials, can transform their vulnerability into strength. He said diversification is not just an economic goal—it is a shield against future shocks and a pathway to prosperity, peace, and opportunity for all, instilling a sense of optimism in the audience. Mr. Alvaro Lario, the President of IFAD and Mr. Gilles Carbonnier, the Vice President, ICRC, have also made opening remarks and stressed the need for stronger collaboration to tackle the challenges posed by fragility, conflict and climate.

The session brought together key leaders and partners, including:

• H.E. Mohamed Arkab, MoS, Minister of Energy, Renewable Energies & Mining, Algeria
• H.E. Dr. Anggito Abimanyu, Deputy Minister of Finance, Indonesia
• Dr. Alvaro Lario, President of IFAD
• Mr. George Nyeso Stanley, Director of International Economic Relations Department, Nigeria
• Mrs. Kirstine Damkjaer, Assistant Secretary-General and Deputy Executive Director – Delivery and Partnerships, United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)
• Mr. Gilles Carbonnier, Vice-President of the ICRC

Member Countries shared examples of how they are changing their economic models. Indonesia is developing downstream industries. H.E. Mr of State Akbar shared with the audience that Algeria has launched several initiatives, including increasing access to clean energy and the use of green technologies across the country. Capitalising on the availability of significant sunlight in Algeria, the government aims to reach 700 MW of solar energy, with 200 MW already reached with the plant in Gara Djebilet.

The 2025 Resilience Report shows that nine fragile Member Countries are especially at risk from floods, droughts, health emergencies, and displacement—over 43 million people were displaced in 2024 alone.  

Dr. Rami Ahmad also highlighted some of IsDB’s ongoing work:

• $5.5 billion in climate finance mobilised over three years
• New Country Engagement Framework tailored to fragile settings, starting with Somalia
• STEP program delivering education and skills for displaced people in 15 countries
• Women Techsters Initiative training over 73,000 young women in digital skills in Nigeria
• Planning Response and Resilience Facility to support 10 million people facing conflict and climate shocks
• Partnership with ISFD and UNHCR to create a $500 million Global Islamic Fund for Refugees

“Resilience and diversification must go hand in hand,” Dr. Rami Ahmad said. “We must invest in human capital, innovation ecosystems, and inclusive economic systems that protect livelihoods and promote long-term stability.”

The session gave Member Countries an opportunity to share lessons, discuss policy tools, and build stronger partnerships for long-term development.