FY 2024 Cambodia Country Opinion Survey Report ECR Business Intelligence Team | June 2024 Acknowledgements The Cambodia Country Opinion Survey is part of the County Opinion Survey Program series of the World Bank Group. This report was prepared by the Business Intelligence (BI) team, led by José De Buerba (Senior External Affairs Officer) and Svetlana Markova (Senior External Affairs Officer). Yulia Danilina, Jessica Cameron, Nan Lin, and Sofya Gubaydullina oversaw the design, reporting, and analysis of the survey results. Noreen Wambui and Irina Popova provided data support. BI acknowledges the significant contribution from the Cambodia country team and independent fielding agency, Nuppun Research and Consulting Co., Ltd. In particular, BI is grateful for the support from Phaloeuk Kong (Operations Officer), Saroeun Bou (External Affairs Officer), and Seakheang Heng (Program Assistant), who coordinated the survey-related activities from Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Contents Objectives Methodology Overview Overall Context Overall Attitudes Toward the World Bank Group World Bank Group’s Support for Development Areas World Bank Group’s Engagement on the Ground in Cambodia World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Cambodia Communication and Outreach Sample Demographics and Detailed Methodology 3 Objectives This survey was designed to assist the World Bank Group (WBG) in better understanding how stakeholders in Cambodia perceive the WBG. The survey explored the following questions: 1. Overall Context: How familiar are stakeholders with the WBG? How much do they trust the WBG? 2. Key Indicators: What opinion do key stakeholders have of the WBG regarding its effectiveness, relevance, alignment with Cambodia’s development priorities, and other key indicators? Are opinions improving or declining? 3. Development Priorities: What areas of development are perceived to be the most important? Have the priorities changed over the past three years? How effective is the WBG perceived to be in these areas? 4. Engagement on the Ground: How is the WBG perceived as a development partner in Cambodia? Are opinions improving or declining? 5. Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work: What do key stakeholders value the most regarding the WBG’s work in Cambodia? What opinion do key stakeholders have of WBG financial instruments and knowledge products? Are opinions improving or declining? What are stakeholders’ suggestions for improving WBG’s effectiveness? 6. Communication and Outreach: What are the preferred communication channels? Are there differences among stakeholder groups in terms of preferred channels? 7. Message Recall: What key topics that the WBG communicates do stakeholders recall? Is there a relationship between message recall and views of the WBG’s work? 4 Methodology Overview Government Institution 38% ▪ Fielded February – April 2024 ▪ 410 potential participants were asked to complete a mostly Civil Society Organization 22% quantitative survey ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online and on paper Sub National Government Office 12% or staff ▪ List of names provided by the WBG country team and supplemented by the fielding agency Private Sector 8% ▪ Process managed on the ground by the fielding agency ▪ 185 participants (45% response rate) Bilateral / Multilateral Agency 7% ▪ 79% from Phnom Penh ▪ 56% currently collaborate with the WBG Academia / Research Centers 4% ▪ Compared to FY21 Country Survey Office of the Prime Minister, Minister 3% ▪ 147 participants (44% response rate) ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online and on paper Media 3% ▪ 42% collaborated with the WBG Office of a Parliamentarian (National Assembly, Legislative 2% Click here for details of the Respondent Sample and Methodology. body) Which of the following best describes your current affiliation? Q (Select only 1 response) (Percentage of Respondents, N=185) 5 6 Overall Context “WBG should work to promote and establish a genuinely inclusive dialogue platform for Cambodia in order to have full participation and trust from all stakeholders for the peaceful and prosperous growth of development.” (Civil Society Organization Respondent) “Cambodia is rapidly transitioning towards an upper middle -income country in 2030. Therefore, the World Bank needs to shift its support focus beyond just poverty reduction.” (Private Sector Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Cambodia? (N=182) Stakeholders Most Familiar with the UN, ADB, and WBG ▪ Respondents in this year’s Country Survey were asked 7.4 to indicate their familiarity with the work of several United Nations international organizations and the World Bank Group (WBG). Of these organizations, respondents in Cambodia indicated the highest levels of familiarity with 6.9 the work of the United Nations, followed by the Asian Asian Development Bank (ADB) Development Bank (ADB) and the World Bank Group. Respondents were least familiar with the work of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Asian 6.7 World Bank Group* Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). 5.8 ▪ Respondents’ familiarity with the WBG in this year’s FY24 survey was significantly higher than in FY21. FY21 6.7 European Union 5.5 International Monetary Fund Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank 4.2 (AIIB) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Familiarity How familiar are you with the work of these organizations in Cambodia? Q Scale: (1-"Not familiar at all,” 10-"Extremely familiar") 7 Increased Familiarity with the World Bank Group ▪ Comparison of FY21 and FY24: Respondents in this All Respondents 6.7 year’s Country Survey reported significantly higher levels of familiarity with the World Bank compared to respondents in the FY21 Private Sector 7.6 Survey: Government Institutions 7.0 Mean familiarity: FY24 = 6.7 FY21 = 5.8 Sub National Government 6.6 ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who indicated Bilateral / Multilateral Agency 6.6 that they collaborate with the WBG reported significantly higher levels of familiarity with the institution’s work: Broader Civil Society 6.3 Mean familiarity: Collaborate with WBG = 7.9 Organizations 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Do not collaborate = 5.3 Mean Rating of Familiarity ▪ Stakeholders: Respondents from the private sector Government Institutions included respondents from the Office of the Prime Minister, Minister, and Government Institutions. indicated relatively higher familiarity with the WBG than Broader Civil Society included respondents from civil society organizations, respondents from other groups, though it is not statistically academia/research centers, and the media. significant. How familiar are you with the work of the World Bank Group in Cambodia? 8 Q Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Extremely familiar (N=184) Significant difference between stakeholder groups The WBG is Among the Most United Nations* 7.8 6.7 Trusted Institutions in Bilateral organizations (e.g., AFD, 7.7 DFAT, JICA, KOICA, GIZ, USAID)* 7.1 Cambodia World Bank Group* 7.5 7.0 Respondents in Cambodia gave the highest trust ratings for 7.4 the United Nations, bilateral organizations, and the World National government* 5.7 Bank Group. Trust ratings in many institutions were 7.4 significantly higher in FY24 compared to the FY21 survey. Cambodia’s Central Bank* 6.0 According to respondents this year, the media, the private Regional development banks (ADB, 7.3 AIIB, KfW, EIB)* 6.0 sector, and the parliament / legislative branch were among the least trusted institutions. Youth* 7.3 6.2 ▪ Of note, respondents from the private sector and 7.2 FY24 Academia / research centers FY21 subnational government reported significantly higher trust ratings in the WBG (mean = 8.3, 8.1, respectively) than 7.1 respondents from other groups. International Monetary Fund 6.7 7.0 Sub national government office 7.0 Civil society (e.g., NGOs, CBOs) * 6.2 6.9 Parliament / legislative branch 6.6 Private sector * 5.8 6.1 Media 5.7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 How much do you trust each of the following institutions to do what is right for Cambodia? Mean Rating of Trust Q Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much (FY24 N=~168; FY21 N=~120) *Significant difference between years 9 10 Overall Attitudes toward the World Bank Group “The World Bank should consistently implement all required actions to guarantee that its operations and the projects it endorses do not result in human rights violations, including those perpetrated by its clients.” (Bilateral or Multilateral Agency Respondent) “The World Bank Group may also consider expanding the scope of the theme of its development projects, which it seeks to further develop development projects that could be of greater benefit to Cambodians who are major beneficiaries..” (Sub National Government Respondent Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Cambodia? (N=182) WBG’s Influence and Effectiveness Significantly Improved In FY24, respondents gave the highest ratings for the 7.5 WBG’s relevance to development in Cambodia. The ratings Relevant role in development for WBG’s positive influence on shaping development 7.4 policy in Cambodia and its effectiveness in helping Cambodia achieve development results have been Positive influence on shaping 7.4 significantly improved compared to FY21. development policy*^ 6.7 Although the ratings were relatively lower, respondents still expressed modest to positive views about the World Bank Group’s work helping end extreme poverty in Cambodia. Effectiveness in helping 7.3 Cambodia to achieve results*^^ FY24 6.9 FY21 Alignment with development 7.2 priorities 7.4 Helps end extreme poverty in 7.2 Cambodia The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Cambodia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG has a positive influence on shaping development policy in Cambodia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Q ^In FY21, the question was: “To what extent does the World Bank Group influence the development agenda in Cambodia? Mean Rating Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree How effective is the WBG in helping Cambodia achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective *Significant difference ^^Compared to a mean score of the two questions asked in FY21: "Overall, please rate your impression of the WBG’s effectivene ss in between years Cambodia. Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective; To what extent does the WBG’s work help to achieve development resu lts in Cambodia? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Cambodia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 11 The WBG’s work helps end extreme poverty in Cambodia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Stakeholders from the Private Sector Have 7.7 More Positive Trust the WBG to do what is right for Cambodia* 7.3 8.1 6.7 Perceptions of WBG 8.3 7.7 Government Comparisons of key performance indicators Effectiveness in helping 8.3 Institutions ratings between stakeholder groups show that Cambodia achieve 6.3 results* 6.5 respondents from the private sector gave Sub National 7.8 higher ratings across all KPIs. In contrast, Government respondents from bilateral/multilateral 7.6 agencies and broader civil society 8.0 Relevant role in Bilateral / 6.9 organizations had lower ratings. This development 7.3 Multilateral difference was significant in trust, Agency 8.5 effectiveness, and influence ratings. Broader Civil 7.3 Society Positive Influence on 8.1 Organizations shaping development 6.9 policy* 7.1 Private Sector 8.5 7.3 7.2 Alignment with *Significant 6.1 difference between development priorities 7.1 stakeholder groups 8.1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating Q For question wording and scales, please see the previous slide. 12 Familiarity Leads to More Positive Perceptions Trust the WBG to do what 7.1 8.4 is right for Cambodia* 5.6 Comparing key performance indicators ratings among respondents highly familiar with the WBG Effectiveness in helping 8.0 Cambodia 7.1 (ratings of 8-10 on a 10-point scale) and those with to achieve results* 5.4 little familiarity with the WBG (ratings of 1-4 on a 10- point scale), one can see that the more familiar 8.2 stakeholders are with the WBG, the more positive Relevant role in development* 7.5 perceptions they have of the WBG and its work. 5.9 Meaningful engagement and outreach can 8.0 Alignment with development continue to increase positive perceptions. 7.0 priorities* 5.6 8.1 Positive influence* 7.1 6.1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating How familiar are you with the work of the WBG in Cambodia? High Familiarity (8-10) Some Familiarity (5-7) Low Familiarity (1-4) *Significant difference between levels of familiarity How much do you trust the WBG to do what is right for Cambodia? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much Q How effective is the WBG in helping Cambodia achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective The WBG currently plays a relevant role in Cambodia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Cambodia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG has a positive influence on shaping development policy in Cambodia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 13 Cambodia’s Key Performance Indicators are Higher than those of East Asia and Pacific countries and IDA Countries Surveyed in FY23 7.5 Relevant role in development 7.1 7.1 7.5 Trust the WBG to do what is right 7.2 7.0 Cambodia FY24 7.4 Positive influence 6.8 EAP FY23 6.9 7.3 Effectiveness in helping to achieve 7.1 IDA FY23 results 6.7 7.2 Alignment with development priorities 7.1 6.7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating Countries in the EAP region surveyed in FY23 included Fiji, Malaysia, and Mongolia 14 Q IDA countries surveyed in FY23: Central African Republic, Djibouti, Ghana, Guinea, Honduras, Kyrgyz Republic, Mali, Nepal, São Tomé and Príncipe, Tanzania, and The Gambia Aggregated Performance Indicators Respondents from subnational governments had the All Respondents 7.2 highest mean rating across the aggregated responses to the nineteen COS indicator questions, whereas respondents from bilateral/multilateral agencies had Sub National Government 7.7 significantly lower ratings. ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who Private Sector 7.5 indicated that they collaborated with the WBG reported significantly higher ratings across the aggregated indicator questions than respondents who Government Institutions 7.5 did not collaborate with the WBG. Mean rating: Collaborate with WBG = 7.6 Broader Civil Society 6.8 Organizations Do not collaborate = 6.6 Bilateral / Multilateral Agency 6.4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Aggregated Indicator Questions *Significant difference between stakeholder groups Q All Indicator Questions were asked on a Scale from 1 to 10. Click here for details of these Indicator Questions. 15 16 World Bank Group’s Support for Development Areas “The Royal Government's priority policies should be considered when preparing the World Bank project for Cambodia.” (Sub National Government Respondent) “Provide funding to civil society to work on land and natural resource management, climate change, and good governance.” (Civil Society Organization Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Cambodia? (N=182) Development Areas FY21 (23%) Education 46% for WBG Focus FY21 (18%) Jobs (including skill development) 45% FY21 (27%) Agriculture / food security 42% In FY24, education, jobs, and agriculture/food The top priority Public sector governance 38% security were the top areas where stakeholders would in FY21 (29%) like the WBG to focus its resources. Macroeconomic stability 36% While the top areas were similar to the FY21 findings, FY21 (14%) Social protection / social inclusion 35% climate change and social protection / social Digital infrastructure development 35% inclusion were of much greater priority in FY24. The perceived importance of WBG focusing its resources FY21 (6%) Climate change 32% on private sector development has decreased Gender equity 22% compared to FY21. Health / pandemic preparedness 22% Of note, macroeconomic stability was a much higher priority to respondents from the private sector (67%), Environment / natural resource management 21% and digital infrastructure development was of a Transport infrastructure 21% higher priority to respondents from the sub-national government (50%). Water / sanitation 15% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the Financial markets development 12% WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Disaster risk management 10% Cambodia? FY21 (16%) “Invest more in human capital and help to strengthen Private sector development 10% transparency in public administration.” Energy 9% (Media Respondent) Urban development 8% Other 3% Which areas should the WBG prioritize to have the most impact on development results in 17 Q Cambodia? (Select up to 5) (Percentage of Respondents, N = 183) Effectiveness of WBG’s Sectoral Support The WBG’s work on education, water supply and sanitation infrastructure received the highest effectiveness ratings. Of note, respondents from the Finance / Institutions / Economic Growth subnational government had higher mean ratings in most areas compared to 6.9 respondents from other groups. Macroeconomic stability 6.6 Public sector governance 6.9 Human Development 6.5 7.0 Private sector development 6.5 Education FY24 7.2 6.4 FY21 Health 6.9 Debt sustainability 7.0 6.8 FY24 6.4 Social protection 6.8 Job creation / employment 6.7 FY21 Gender equity 6.7 6.0 6.9 Trade 6.5 Social inclusion 6.5 6.9 Infrastructure Environmental Sustainability 6.8 7.0 Agriculture and food security Water supply and sanitation infrastructure 7.0 7.0 6.8 FY24 6.3 Transport 6.9 Climate change FY24 FY21 6.5 FY21 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Environment / natural resource 6.3 Mean Rating of Effectiveness management 6.2 *Significant difference between years 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Effectiveness How effective has the WBG been at achieving development results in each of these areas in Cambodia? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective Q (If you have NO exposure to/experience in working in any of the sectors listed below, please respond “Don’t know.”) 18 ^ compared with “Information and communications technology” in FY21 19 World Bank Group’s Engagement on the Ground in Cambodia “The project's preparation must be based on the Royal Government's policy/strategy and the priority programs of the relevant ministries. Be flexible in implementing projects as needed to each sector's current state of development.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Cambodia? (N=182) The WBG is Consistently Seen as a Long-term Partner In FY24, respondents perceived the WBG as a long-term 8.0 partner in Cambodia. Ratings for flexibility have improved Being a long-term partner significantly compared to FY21; ratings for openness, 7.5 responsiveness to needs, and staff accessibility also improved slightly, though not significantly. Openness (sharing data and 7.3 Respondents from sub-national governments tended to be other information) 7.0 more positive compared to other respondents. 6.9 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the Responsiveness to needs FY24 WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in 6.6 Cambodia? FY21 Flexibility when circumstances 6.8 “Be flexible according to the actual situation of development and livelihood of the people. Knowledge and experience are change^* 5.8 different, so it is important to maintain understanding and honesty, but to great benefit to the people who are the beneficiaries.” Access to WBG staff and 6.6 (Government Institution Respondent) experts 6.4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in terms of the following? Q Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree ^Compared to the mean of institutional flexibility 20 and flexibility to changes in the country context asked in FY21. The WBG is seen as Effectively Collaborating with the National Government 7.6 In FY24, respondents perceived the WBG as National government 7.4 collaborating better with the national government, other development partners, and civil society compared to UN agencies (UNICEF, 7.3 FY21; perceptions of the WBG’s collaboration with the UNDP, etc.) private sector remain relatively moderate. Other development partners 7.3 (DFAT, JICA, EU, KOICA, KfW, SDC) 6.9 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in 7.1 Cambodia? Academia / research centers FY24 FY21 “Work more collaboratively with other development partners 6.9 Sub national government and play a leadership role in convening voices to engage in office effective policy dialogue with the government.” (Bilateral or Multilateral Agency Respondent) Civil society (e.g., NGOs, 6.8 CBOs)* 6.0 6.4 Private sector 6.4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Cambodia, in terms of collaborating with the following groups? Q Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree 21 Half of the Stakeholders Wanted the Bank to Collaborate More with the Sub National Government In addition to its partnership with the Top for respondents Sub national government from government 53% institutions (57%) office national government, the WBG should collaborate more with sub national government and the private sector. Private sector 39% Civil society (e.g., NGOs, 33% CBOs) In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Cambodia? Other development 31% partners “More engagement with the private sectors and business communities to understand their needs so that WBG can work with the public sector to address these needs to help Academia / research the private sector to thrive. 23% centers (Private Sector Respondent) The United Nations 9% Other 5% In addition to its partnership with the national government, which of the following should the WBG collaborate with more to have greater impact in Q Cambodia? (Select up to 2) (Percentage of Respondents, N=175) 22 23 World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work “Provide financial literacy to the general population, especially the younger generation. Increase environmentally friendly loans for the development of Cambodia.” (Government Institution Respondent) “WBG should publish and share updated reporting/information online, and then everyone can assess what documents they need to learn and cite from those documents.” (Civil Society Organization Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Cambodia? (N=182) Knowledge Products and Financial Resources are Knowledge and analytical products (e.g., data, reports, 48% considered the Bank’s policy notes) Of more value to bilateral and multilateral Financial resources (e.g., budget Greatest Value support, investment lending, grants, trust funds) 46% respondents (85%) Technical assistance and In your opinion, what is the most important thing the implementation support (incl. 39% project design and WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in implementation) Cambodia? “Provide technical assistance and grant loans to support the Capacity development and Of more value to 28% sub national training implementation of programs and projects to ensure work government respondents (41%) efficiency.” (Government Institution Respondent) Mobilizing third party financial resources (incl. both public and 14% “The World Bank Group should provide additional support to private) the Royal Government's priority sector development process in the form of financial and non-financial assistance, such as technical assistance. The World Bank Group should also Development partner coordination 9% look at the possibility of mobilizing developed countries / international institutions to join in supporting Cambodia.” (Sub National Government Respondent) Convening / bringing together 5% different groups of stakeholders Other 3% Which WBG instruments do you VALUE the most in Cambodia? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=148) 24 WBG is Perceived as Effectively Monitoring and Evaluating Projects Regarding the WBG’s financial instruments, respondents The WBG effectively monitors and 7.8 evaluates the projects it supports had the highest levels of agreement that the WBG 7.0 in Cambodia* effectively monitors and evaluates the projects it supports in Cambodia, and it has been significantly The WBG insists on accountability improved since FY21. Ratings for the timeliness of the through its lending (e.g., 7.8 financial support also significantly increased. performance-based financing, resources tied to results) As in other questions, sub national government The WBG’s Environmental and 7.5 respondents tended to be more positive; the private Social Framework requirements are reasonable* 7.0 sector respondents reported significantly higher ratings on the WBG’s effectiveness in monitoring and evaluating FY24 The WBG’s financial instruments the projects it supports in Cambodia. (i.e., budget support, loans, 7.2 FY21 grants, trust funds) meet the 6.8 needs of Cambodia In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in The conditions of the WBG’s 6.9 Cambodia? financing are competitive compared to markets “Please support and promote the implementation of the development of any agro-industrial project to help promote 6.7 The WBG provides financial Cambodian products to increase quality and support in a timely manner* 5.8 competitiveness.” (Government Institution Respondent) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating Q To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 25 Perceptions Regarding WBG Knowledge Work Significantly Improved Respondents had the highest levels of agreement that the WBG The WBG brings global expertise to 7.8 Cambodia as part of its knowledge brings global expertise to Cambodia. In addition, respondents work*^ 7.1 this year had significantly higher levels of agreement that the Bank’s knowledge work increases Cambodia’s institutional 7.7 Working with the WBG increases capacity and is tailored to the country’s context. Cambodia’s institutional capacity * 7.1 ▪ Notably, respondents from bilateral/multilateral agencies I am satisfied with the quality of the 7.7 were significantly less likely to report they know how to find WBG’s knowledge work in Cambodia the WBG’s knowledge work when they need to consult it (mean = 6.0). Since knowledge and analytical products are FY24 the Bank’s most valued activity for these stakeholders (see Contribution of the WBG's knowledge 7.6 FY21 work to development results 7.5 slide 27), more outreach to this group regarding WBG’s products and how to find them is recommended. The WBG’s knowledge work is 7.6 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG tailored to Cambodia’s context*^^ 6.7 could do to help increase its effectiveness in Cambodia? “Continue to provide capacity development support for civil 7.0 When I need to consult the WBG’s servants (e.g., leadership, communication skills, project planning knowledge work, I know how to find it and management skills, survey skills, data collection, data analysis, research skills, Evidence-based policy making.” (Government Institution Respondent) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q How significant a contribution do you believe the WBG’s knowledge work makes to development results in Cambodia? Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant ^ Compared to "Are a source of relevant information on global good practices" asked in FY21. 26 ^^Compared to "Are adaptable to Cambodia’s specific development challenges and country circumstances" in FY21 69% of Respondents Used WBG’s Knowledge Work; Those Who Did Hold Slightly More Positive Views of WBG’s Knowledge Work Seven in ten respondents reported that they had The WBG brings global expertise to 7.9 used the WBG’s knowledge work in the past. Cambodia as part of its knowledge work 7.4 I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s 7.8 knowledge work in Cambodia 7.3 No 31% Working with the WBG increases 7.7 Have you ever Cambodia’s institutional capacity 7.6 used the Have you used WBG’s WBG’s knowledge knowledge work? The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to 7.6 work? Yes Cambodia’s context Yes 7.4 69% No When I need to consult the WBG’s 7.1 knowledge work, I know how to find it 6.9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating Have you ever used the WBG’s knowledge work, including participating in workshops or training programs? (Percentage of Respon dents, N=172) Q To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 27 28 The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Cambodia “Realign with the Royal Government's Pentagonal Strategy .” (Respondent from the Office of the Prime Minister or Minister) “World Bank should expand the support on activities of sub -national government to close the poverty gap between rural and urban people.” (Sub National Government Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Cambodia? (N=182) How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open Ended Responses Communication • Address low levels of awareness about WBG’s work in Focus Area • Education and human development the population • Infrastructure, including digital 6% 28% development • Better communication channels with stakeholders Communication • Agriculture development (irrigation and water management Results • Robust M&E, consensus with local • Public sector governance and stakeholders on indicators 6% • Address corruption in WBG projects, Results anticorruption • Involve civil society for greater transparency Focus Operational Area Engagement • Collaborate more with local civil society • Better alignment with country needs and Effectiveness for better needs assessment, generating government plans 21% context-specific solutions, project Operational • More reliance on local experts and advisors implementation, and M&E Effectiveness • Training of local experts to support Financial • Work with the private sector and implementation; robust M&E Support facilitate public-private dialogue 11% • Less bureaucracy, optimize • Work more at the subnational level meetings/communication Engagement • Concerns about political interference Knowledge Knowledge • More research and data 16% • Capacity development, particularly for Financial • More financing, particularly directly at the implementing agencies and at the local level Support local level • Capacity development for NGOs, academia, • Easier loan requirements, low interest and private sector 15% • Build the capacity of local experts • Provide more training and technical support Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Cambodia? (N=182) 29 How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open Ended Responses Focus Area Engagement “The World Bank should focus on setting up effective teams with the ministries and “The projects of the development have to be fully involved and participated by the civil departments for the enhancement of the healthcare and education sectors - the major two societies, NGOs, communities and local authorities.” segments that are dragging Cambodia down. It should focus on developing exclusive (Civil Society Organization Respondent) specially-tailored solutions for the enhancement of healthcare and education sectors in the “WB would work closely with other development partners in Cambodia to ensure its country.” (Media Respondent) support is not duplicated and with efficient resource management.” (Government Institution Respondent) “Cambodia is a young population country, so please have holistic program approaches to empower young people (social, political, and economic empowerment to young people) to “WBG should have more workshops that both private and public sectors could meet ensure that young people are accepted as key development stakeholders of Cambodia and exchange and share their inputs and works. It is good to have such public-private country. They have adequate support from the government and all development partners.” sector more exchanges of their challenges/impacts.” (Private Sector Respondent) (Private Sector Respondent) “Urban governance and rapid city development at the sub-national level.” (Bilateral or Multilateral Agency Respondent) Operational Effectiveness “World Bank should increase more loans to help Cambodia in the development of sectors “Tailored programs: Less reliance on pre-packaged solutions, and more flexibility to such as infrastructure and irrigation system for the agriculture sector.” design projects directly addressing Cambodia's unique challenges.” (Sub National Government Respondent) (Private Sector Respondent) “Flexible to the context of Cambodia's development by easing some implementation Results conditions such as environmental and social protection and project implementation procedures. Respond to sectoral needs by cooperating, identifying, and evaluating the “We strongly urge the WBG to have more flexibility and strong power of negotiation with the situation clearly before jointly setting out a framework for cooperation.” government to design projects with the right incentive as said, "Result-based financing with a result-based incentive." (Respondent from the Office of the Prime Minister or Minister) (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Cambodia? (N=182) 30 How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open Ended Responses Financial Support Knowledge “Ease the difficulties in reserving funds or financing from WB.” “Conduct research, development, and support (input, techniques, and resources) in (Respondent from the Office of the Prime Minister or Minister) response to the need and real case of Cambodia rather than focusing on following trends or agendas of the superpowers or donor countries.” “1. Ease the loan requirements. 2. No embedded political trend. 3. Provide loan in (Respondent from the Office of the Prime Minister or Minister) response to pre-requisite of the government” (Government Institution Respondent) “Share practical experiences and innovative work in Cambodia.” (Government Institution Respondent) “WBG can expand more financial access to Cambodia while educating in digital technology and financial sector as well as to have more engagement with the private “Provide technical assistance for every sector.” sector, which is the key engine of the country's economic growth and resilience.” (Sub National Government Respondent) (Private Sector Respondent) “Project design from WBG is considered very high quality, but the knowledge and capacity of Implementing Agency is questionable, especially on "how to do one task rightly" and “With a mixed model of funding support to Government, UNs, INGOs, and Local "how to do one task completed…” (Academia Respondent) CSOs/DPOs to pilot and scale up projects/initiatives/infrastructures to achieve Sustainable Development Goals to ensure an Inclusive society and culture.” “I think the World Bank should support capacity building to local NGOs and local (Civil Society Organization Respondent) businesses on sustainable development and social responsible framework especial in the Tax Duty of the NGOs and Social Enterprises.” (Civil Society Organization Respondent) Communication “Dissemination of information. 95% of Cambodians do not have knowledge about what WBG does. We heard when you gave loan AID. You did a lot, but common people do not know.” (Respondent from the Office of a Parliamentarian) “Provide an authoritative and balanced voice on critical development issues.” (Bilateral or Multilateral Agency Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Cambodia? (N=182) 31 32 Communication and Outreach “WBG should publish and share updated reporting/information online, and then everyone can assess what documents they need to learn and cite from those documents. (Civil Society Organization Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Cambodia? (N=182) WBG Events and Direct Contact were Most Preferred for Receiving WBG Communication Half of the respondents preferred receiving the Bank’s communications at the WBG events (in person or online) and through direct contact with staff. Respondents from sub national government significantly preferred direct messaging more than the other respondents. Top Preferred WBG Channel Bilateral / Broader Civil All Government Sub National Multilateral Society Respondents Institutions Government Agency Organizations Private Sector Event / conference / seminar / 52.7% 45.6% 57.1% 66.7% 53.1% 57.1% workshop (in person or online) Direct contact with staff* 48.5% 52.9% 23.8% 50.0% 59.2% 28.6% Direct messaging* 40.2% 48.5% 61.9% 25.0% 28.6% 28.6% e-Newsletters 26.0% 27.9% 9.5% 33.3% 24.5% 35.7% Social media 25.4% 22.1% 47.6% 25.0% 20.4% 35.7% Other 1.2% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 2.0% 0.0% How would you prefer to receive communication from the WBG? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=169) 33 7 in 10 of Respondents Recalled Seeing or Hearing Information About the WBG, Most Often Through the WBG’s Events or on Social Media Event / conference / seminar 64% 73% of respondents recalled seeing or hearing something about the WBG recently. Respondents who Social media 48% collaborated with the WBG were significantly more WBG websites 44% likely to recall something (90%), whereas respondents Direct contact with WBG staff 41% who did not collaborate were less likely to do so Newspapers (print or online) 24% (51%). Television (TV) 18% Respondents most often reported seeing that Direct messaging 16% information through the WBG’s events / conferences / seminars, as well as on social media. e-Newsletters 11% Radio 10% Podcasts 6% Blogs 3% Other 3% Do you recall seeing or hearing anything about the WBG recently? (N=168) Q Where do you recall seeing or hearing this information? (Select ALL that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=123) 34 WBG Economic Forecasts was the Most Commonly Recalled Topic Respondents most frequently recalled WBG economic forecasts. They also frequently recalled WBG’s work or research on climate change, human capital, and food security. WBG’s work to or research on... WBG economic forecasts 63% Climate change 44% Human capital (education, health) 39% Food security 33% Digital economy 25% Ending poverty in developing countries 22% Debt relief for developing countries 20% Women empowerment 19% Job creation / employment 18% Pandemic preparedness 16% Youth development 15% Changes to the WBG financial and operational 9% model Q What topics were included in what you saw or heard about WBG’s work or research? (Select ALL that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=122) 35 Climate Change Communications can be More Impactful when Related to Stakeholders’ Top Concerns: Food Insecurity and More Frequent and Severe Droughts Two-thirds of respondents were very concerned about decreased crop yields / increased food insecurity, and more frequent and severe droughts as potential impacts of climate change in Cambodia. Unsafe drinking water and more frequent / severe floods were also of great concern to respondents. These key areas of concern should be considered to make communications about climate change more impactful. Not at all A little Somewhat concerned Very concerned Decreased crop yields / increased food insecurity 70% More frequent and severe droughts 63% Land and forest degradation 62% More frequent and severe heatwaves 59% Decreased water availability / quality 57% Loss of jobs 51% Air pollution 50% More frequent and severe floods 49% Extinction of plant / animal species 46% Increased erosion of river banks 44% Climate-driven migration 40% Coastal flooding due to sea level rise 36% Q How concerned are you about the following potential impacts of climate change in Cambodia? (Percentage of Respondents, N=~165) 36 Message Recall is Associated with Higher Familiarity and More Positive Perceptions of the WBG and its Work 7.4 Familiarity with the WBG* 5.0 7.9 Relevant role in development* 6.6 Do you recall seeing 7.8 or hearing anything Trust the WBG to do what is right for Cambodia* 6.4 about the WBG recently? 7.6 Effective in helping Somalia achieve development results* Yes 6.3 No 7.6 Positive Influence the development agenda* 6.8 7.5 Aligned with development priorities* 6.5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating These findings suggest that respondents who are more frequently exposed to information about the WBG or who actively engage with WBG staff and knowledge work (read research papers, etc.) are also more likely to hold more positive views about the WBG’s work. How familiar are you with the work of the World Bank Group in Cambodia? Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Extremely familiar How much do you trust the WBG to do what is right for Cambodia? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much Q How effective is the WBG in helping Cambodia achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree: The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Cambodia. The WBG’s wo rk is aligned with what I consider the development 37 priorities for Cambodia. To what extent does the World Bank Group influence the development agenda in Cambodia? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree 38 Sample Demographics and Detailed Methodology Sample Demographics What is the primary specialization Do you of your work? (N=163) collaborate/work Public sector governance 15% with the World Bank Group (WBG) No Generalist (specialize in multiple sectors) 14% in Cambodia? 44% Education 12% (N=181) Yes 56% Agriculture and food security 9% Respondents from government institutions were significantly more likely to indicate Other 8% that they collaborate with the WBG (72%) compared to respondents from other Private sector development / trade 7% stakeholder groups. Social protection 6% Macroeconomics, fiscal / debt management 6% Health / pandemic preparedness 6% MIGA 1% Legal / human rights 4% Which of the Water / sanitation 3% following WBG IFC agencies do you 32% Environment / natural resource management 2% collaborate/work Urban development 2% with in Cambodia? Gender equity 2% (N=102) World Bank Digital development 2% (IDA) 92% Climate change 1% Energy 1% 39 Sample Demographics (continued) Prefer not to specify What’s your age? (N=168) 8% Female 25 or younger 1% Other 23% 6% 26-35 12% What is your 36-45 35% gender? (N=163) 46-55 27% 56 and above 21% Male 64% Prefer not to specify 5% Rural, 4% Other urban areas, 17% Which best represents your geographic Cambodia location? (N=165) Phnom Penh, 79% 40 Detailed Methodology From February 2024 to April 2024, a total of 410 stakeholders in Cambodia and Percentage of Respondents FY 2021 FY 2024 Somaliland were invited to provide their opinions on the WBG’s work by participating in a Government Principals: Office of the Country Opinion Survey (COS). A list of potential participants was compiled by the WBG President, Prime Minister, Minister, 1% 5% Parliamentarian country team and the fielding agency. Participants were drawn from the Office of the President, Prime Minister, Minister, and Parliament, government institutions, local Government Institutions: Employee of a Ministry, Department, Project Implementation governments, bilateral and multilateral agencies, the private sector, civil society, academia, Unit, Independent Government Institution, 22% 38% and the media. Judiciary, State-Owned Enterprise Of these stakeholders, 185 participated in the survey (45% response rate). Respondents Local Government 5% 12% completed the questionnaire on paper or via an online platform. Bilateral/Multilateral Agency: Embassy, Development Organization, Development 8% 7% This year’s survey results were compared to the FY21 Survey, which had a response Bank, UN Agency rate of 44% (N=147). Civil Society Organization: Local and regional NGOs, Community-Based Comparing responses across Country Surveys reflects changes in attitudes over time and Organization, Private Foundation, 25% 22% changes in respondent samples, methodology, and the survey instrument itself. To reduce the Professional/Trade Association, influence of the latter factor, only those questions with similar response scales/options were Faith-Based Group, Youth Group analyzed. This year’s survey saw much greater outreach to and/or response from civil society Private Sector: Private Company, Financial organizations and academia but a decrease from government principals and the private Sector Organization, Private Bank 20% 8% sector. These differences in stakeholder composition between the two years should be considered when interpreting the results of the past-year comparison analyses. Academia/Research Center 5% 4% Key statistically significant findings (tested at the research standard of p < .05) are noted Media 9% 3% throughout the report. Other 4% 2% Breakdowns for individual questions by stakeholder group can be found in the “Cambodia Total Number of Respondents 143 185 COS FY24 Appendices with data breakdowns.xlsx” file published in the WBG Microdata Library, along with the survey microdata and this report. Q Which of the following best describes your current affiliation? (Select only 1 response) 41 Indicator Questions Every country that engages in the Country Opinion Survey (COS) must include specific indicator questions, several of which are aggregated for the World Bank Group’s annual Corporate Scorecard and are highlighted in red below. A1_5. How much do you trust the World Bank Group to do what is right for Cambodia? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much A2. How effective is the World Bank Group in helping Cambodia achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective A3. How significant a contribution do you believe the WBG's knowledge work make to development results in Cambodia? Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree A4. The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Cambodia. A5. The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Cambodia. A6. The WBG has a positive influence on shaping development policy in Cambodia A7. The WBG’s work helps end extreme poverty in Cambodia To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in terms of each of the following? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree C1_1. Responsiveness to needs in Cambodia C1_2. Access to WBG staff and experts C1_3. Flexibility when circumstances change in Cambodia C1_5. Being a long-term partner to Cambodia To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Cambodia, in terms of collaborating with the following groups: Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree C2_1. National government C2_3. Private sector C2_4. Civil society C2_5. Other donor and development partners To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree C4_1. The WBG’s financial instruments (i.e., budget support, loans, grants, trust funds) meet the needs of Cambodia. C4_3. The WBG provides financial support in a timely manner. C6_1. I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s knowledge work in Cambodia. C6_4. The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to Cambodia’s context. 42 Thank you For more information about this report or the Country Opinion Survey program, please contact: countrysurveys@worldbankgroup.org