This case study is part of the Microfinance, Youth and Conflict research initiative. The West Bank was chosen as a case study location because it offers a unique context in which to examine the impact of conflict on employment for youth, the supply and demand for finance, and the roles of microfinance institutions (MFIs), youth-serving organizations (YSOs), families, and other entities in meeting the demand. Two research teams conducted individual interviews and focus groups with MFI managers and loan officers, YSO staff, youth and adult clients of MFIs, and concerned adults and youth.

The Microfinance, Youth and Conflict research initiative was designed to respond to a common need among a wide range of USAID Missions and partner organizations: to better understand the appropriate use of microfinance-driven programming (including savings, credit, and business development services) for youth populations in post-conflict environments.