This summary presents the results of an internal self-evaluation of the technical assistance provided by the IMF to help develop treasuries in the Baltics, Russia, and other countries of the former Soviet Union.1 The findings from the assessment are intended principally for those interested in the development of these transition economies, but should also be of wider relevance to those involved in delivering technical assistance on public sector institutional reform. The assessment follows the standard approach to such evaluation work. It first considers whether the basic goal of setting up treasuries has been achieved and whether the resultant reforms are relevant and sustainable. Then, it reviews the costs of the inputs, the outputs, the efficiency with which the technical assistance was delivered, and the effectiveness of the particular program. The assessment also considers the factors that influenced the relative efficiency, effectiveness, and impact of the program in different countries.
Finally, the work on the treasury systems is viewed in the wider context of budget and fiscal management in these economies, and some conclusions are drawn about the need for and targeting of further technical assistance in these areas.