Analyzing the debt crisis facing developing and emerging countries, this brief sets out 10 questions that can offer a snapshot of how governments are managing their public debt and guide multilateral lenders on ways to direct funds to drive maximum impact.

The brief outlines how countries are facing heavy debt repayments amid waning investor risk appetite and limited capital market access. It shows how raising questions over issues including public debt transparency, government contingent liabilities, and thematic bond issuance can help assess how debt management practices are leading to actual outcomes.