The establishment of effective and durable public services is a first priority in situations of fragility and conflict. This paper provides an understanding of the mutual influence of state fragility and service delivery and offers guidance to strengthen service provision and governance in these states. Based on an analysis of the major policy issues and approaches available, the paper identifies the challenges and dilemmas the international community and its partners face in fragile settings. It concludes with a set of policy lessons and recommendations intended to help donors better target their interventions.