Kosovo Becomes Official Donor to World Bank’s IDA, Signaling Growing Global Solidarity and Economic Maturity

The announcement was accompanied by Kosovo’s initial paid-in contribution of $1.4 million, a move that symbolizes both the country's economic advancement and its commitment to global solidarity.

In a significant milestone marking its evolving role on the global development stage, the Republic of Kosovo has officially become a donor to the International Development Association (IDA), the World Bank’s fund dedicated to supporting the world’s 78 poorest and most vulnerable countries. The announcement was accompanied by Kosovo’s initial paid-in contribution of $1.4 million, a move that symbolizes both the country's economic advancement and its commitment to global solidarity.

From Beneficiary to Donor: Kosovo’s Development Journey

Kosovo’s contribution to IDA is especially symbolic given its own history as a recipient of IDA support. Since declaring independence in 2008, the country has made remarkable strides in improving its economic landscape. Per capita income has surged by nearly 50%, and the national poverty rate has dropped by 35%. Once reliant on development aid to recover and build resilience, Kosovo now joins the ranks of IDA donors—a transition that underscores the nation's transformation.

"Having benefited from IDA's support on our continuing development journey, we understand firsthand the transformative impact these resources can have,” said Hekuran Murati, Kosovo’s Minister of Finance, Labour and Transfers. “We are proud to contribute to supporting other nations on their path to prosperity."

Kosovo remains eligible to borrow from IDA, as it continues to address development challenges, but its decision to donate signifies a new era of reciprocity and regional leadership. The contribution is being made during a time of growing global need, as multiple overlapping crises—ranging from climate change to political instability—place intensified pressure on low-income countries.

Supporting a Global Mission of Inclusive Growth

IDA is the World Bank’s key instrument for providing low- or zero-interest loans and grants to countries most in need. Replenished every three years, IDA finances critical initiatives in areas such as health, education, water security, social safety nets, infrastructure, governance, and green transition. The fund’s 21st replenishment round (IDA21), which concluded in December 2024, will support projects designed to help countries build resilience, recover from crises, and create sustainable pathways out of poverty.

Kosovo’s latest contributions come at a time when solidarity and collaboration are more essential than ever.

"Kosovo joins a global community of donors that enables IDA to provide concessional financing for development across 78 low-income and vulnerable countries," said Akihiko Nishio, World Bank Vice President for Development Finance. “I commend Kosovo for this decision to stand in solidarity with the countries that IDA serves.”

Kosovo’s Ongoing Engagement with IDA

While now a donor, Kosovo continues to engage with IDA as a borrower to support its own development priorities. Recent IDA-financed projects in Kosovo include infrastructure improvements aimed at facilitating regional trade, enhancing transport efficiency, and bolstering financial stability and inclusion. These initiatives aim to support private sector growth and ensure that Kosovo remains on a steady path of economic progress.

The country's dual status—as both a beneficiary and a benefactor—reflects the essence of the IDA mission: that development is not a one-way street but a collaborative, shared journey. As countries like Kosovo rise, they can in turn uplift others, creating a ripple effect of opportunity, peace, and shared prosperity.

A New Chapter in Kosovo’s Global Engagement

Kosovo’s emergence as an IDA donor is part of a broader pattern of its integration into the international community. The move signals not only economic growth but also a willingness to contribute to global challenges—especially at a time when international cooperation is crucial to address poverty, inequality, and climate change.

By stepping up with this contribution, Kosovo is setting an example for other emerging economies that have transitioned from aid recipients to active contributors in the global development ecosystem. The gesture also strengthens Kosovo’s voice and visibility on the world stage, positioning it as a nation ready to give back and champion the principles of inclusive growth and multilateral cooperation.

As IDA continues its mission to eradicate extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity, the addition of Kosovo to its roster of donors is a promising sign of expanding commitment to these goals. It is a testament to what is possible when nations invest in people, institutions, and innovation—not just within their own borders, but across the world.