Bangkok, 11 October, (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The World Bank is discussing potential financial assistance with between 30 and 40 countries as rising energy costs, debt repayments and climate-related risks put pressure on developing economies.
The World Bank crisis aid discussions come as governments confront uncertainty surrounding the Middle East conflict and its consequences for global energy markets, inflation and public finances.
World Bank President Ajay Banga has outlined the institution’s available financing resources, while highlighting the challenges facing countries with limited financial capacity.
World Bank Explores Emergency Financial Support
The international lender initially made $25 billion available in crisis-related financing following the escalation of the Middle East conflict in late February 2026.
However, demand for immediate assistance was initially lower than anticipated, reflecting the relative resilience of the global economy.
Banga subsequently indicated that approximately $35 billion could become available through adjustments to existing development financing.
Together, these resources could provide around $60 billion in potential assistance.
The institution has also discussed the possibility of expanding its response to approximately $100 billion if economic conditions worsen.
Importantly, discussions with dozens of countries do not establish that every government has formally applied for emergency financing or received approval.
World Bank President Highlights Global Economic Risks
Speaking to Reuters ahead of the IMF and World Bank annual meetings in Bangkok, President Ajay Banga confirmed that discussions were under way with 30 to 40 countries.
He explained that higher diesel and fertiliser prices, alongside the possibility of an unusually strong El Niño weather event, were increasing economic pressure on developing nations.
Banga also highlighted the importance of mobilising private investment alongside international development financing.
Developing Nations Face Rising Debt Repayments
According to World Bank estimates reported by Reuters, developing countries face approximately $400 billion in external debt payments during 2026, with interest accounting for roughly one-third of the total.
These financial obligations can restrict government spending on healthcare, education, infrastructure and poverty reduction.
Higher energy and fertiliser costs also threaten agricultural production and food affordability, particularly in countries dependent on imported fuel and agricultural supplies.
The World Bank’s discussions come as governments attempt to balance essential spending with increasingly expensive borrowing.
Global Economic Concerns Reach European Policymakers
The financial difficulties facing developing economies also matter to European policymakers because international trade, commodity markets and financial stability are closely interconnected.
Higher energy costs can affect European manufacturers and consumers, while economic difficulties in developing countries may influence demand for European exports.
For the European Union, the discussions underline the importance of international cooperation on development financing, debt sustainability and economic resilience.
However, the World Bank’s announcement does not establish that a new global financial crisis has begun.
What Happens Next at the IMF and World Bank Meetings?
The IMF and World Bank annual meetings will take place in Bangkok from 12 to 18 October 2026.
The programme includes a Development Committee meeting on 15 October and the annual plenary session on 16 October.
Finance ministers, central bankers and development officials will examine economic growth, investment, debt pressures and international financial stability.
The World Bank is expected to continue assessing financing requirements with interested governments. Any additional assistance will depend on subsequent discussions and financing decisions.
The outcome will be particularly important for countries facing the combined pressures of expensive energy, high debt repayments and climate-related economic risks.
