This paper traces the evolution of IMF recommendations on fuel and food subsidies from the onset of the global financial crisis (2007-2008) through the aftermath of the 2011 Arab uprisings. During this period, the IMF has intensified its calls for the reduction of food and, in particular, fuel subsidies in the MENA. In addition to conducting a comprehensive review of IMF staff reports from 2007 to 2013, the authors of this paper interviewed representatives of over 11 development and human rights-focused organizations based in Jordan, Tunisia, Morocco, Egypt, and Yemen.4 By consulting civil society perspectives, this paper seeks to highlight the concerns of societies in the Arab region over the socio-economic consequences of IMF-backed subsidy reforms.

By Arab NGO Network for Development