FY 2023 Türkiye Country Opinion Survey Report ECR Business Intelligence Team | February 2024 Acknowledgements The Türkiye 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 Türkiye country team and independent fielding agency, İstanbul Ekonomi Araştırma. In particular, BI is grateful for the support from Tunya Celasin (Senior External Affairs Officer) who coordinated the survey-related activities from Ankara, Türkiye. Contents Objectives Methodology Overview Overall Context Overall Attitudes Toward the World Bank Group World Bank Group’s Support in Development Areas World Bank Group’s Work and Engagement on the Ground in Türkiye World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Türkiye Communication and Outreach Demographics of the Sample and Detailed Methodology 3 Objectives This survey was designed to assist the World Bank Group (WBG) in gaining a better understanding of how stakeholders in Türkiye perceive the WBG. The survey explored the following questions: 1. Overall Context: How familiar are they with the WBG? How much do they trust the WBG? 2. Key Indicators: What opinion do key stakeholders have of the WBG when it comes to its effectiveness, relevance, alignment with Türkiye’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 and Work on the Ground: What do key stakeholders value the most and the least when it comes to the WBG’s work in Türkiye? How is the WBG perceived as a development partner? Are opinions improving or declining? 5. Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work: What opinion do key stakeholders have of WBG financial instruments and knowledge products? Are opinions improving or declining? What are stakeholders’ suggestions to improve WBG’s effectiveness? 6. Communication and Outreach: What are the preferred communication channels and which channels are reported to be used the most? 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 ▪ Fielded June 2023 – August 2023 Government Institution 54% ▪ 1,151 potential participants were asked to complete a mostly quantitative survey Bilateral or Multilateral Agency 16% ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online ▪ List of names provided by the WBG country team and supplemented by the fielding agency Private Sector 13% ▪ Process managed on the ground by the fielding agency ▪ 167 participants (15% response rate) Civil Society Organization 8% ▪ 66% from Ankara, 28% from Istanbul ▪ 79% currently collaborate with the WBG Academia / Research Institute / 6% Think Tank ▪ Compared to FY20 Country Survey ▪ 289 participants (35% response rate) Media 2% ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online ▪ 38% collaborated with the WBG Local Government Office or Staff 1% Click here for details of the Respondent Sample and Methodology. Which of the following best describes your current affiliation? Q (Select only 1 response) (Percentage of Respondents, N=167) 5 6 Overall Context “Prioritizing Turkey and developing projects on global issues such as women's empowerment, climate change, water security, and food safety.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to help increase its effectiveness in Türkiye? (N=78) Familiarity with the World Bank ▪ Year comparison: Respondents in this year’s Country Survey reported significantly higher levels of familiarity with All Respondents 7.6 the World Bank than respondents in the FY20 Survey: Mean familiarity: FY23 = 7.6 FY20 = 6.4 Government institutions* 8.2 ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who indicated that they collaborate with the WBG reported significantly higher levels of familiarity with the institution’s work: Bilateral / Multilateral agency 8.0 Mean familiarity: Collaborate with WBG = 8.1 Do not collaborate = 5.5 Private sector 7.5 ▪ Mean familiarity of those who collaborated with the WBG was significantly higher in this year’s survey compared to the FY20 one (weighted mean in FY23 = 8.1; weighted mean in FY20 = Non-government 7.3) 5.0 organization** 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Familiarity How familiar are you with the work of the World Bank Group in Türkiye? Q Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Extremely familiar (N=167) Statistically similar across stakeholder groups * Government institutions included respondents from the government institutions and local government; 7 ** Non-government institutions included respondents from civil society organizations, academia, and the media. The WBG is the Most The World Bank Group* 7.3 5.7 Trusted Institution in Academia/think tanks/research 7.0 Türkiye institutions 6.9 Regional development banks* Ratings of trust were significantly higher in Türkiye in FY23 5.4 than in the FY20 survey for all institutions except for the 6.9 media. The United Nations (UN)* 5.2 Respondents gave the highest ratings of trust for the 6.8 Civil society (e.g., NGOs, CBOs)* World Bank Group and academia. At the same time, the 6.1 media were the least trusted among the institutions studied. 6.6 Private sector* 5.7 ▪ Respondents from the private sector gave the highest FY23 rating of trust in the WBG (mean = 8.0), whereas 6.5 The International Monetary Fund* FY20 respondents from non-government institutions had the 4.5 lowest trust ratings (mean = 5.8). 6.3 Local government ▪ Compared to FY20, weighted mean trust ratings in the WBG improved significantly both among those who 6.3 The national/federal government* collaborated with the WBG and those who did not 4.7 collaborate. 6.2 Parliament/legislative branch 6.0 Türkiye’s Central Bank* 5.3 4.3 Media 4.5 To what extent do you trust each of the following groups to do what is right? 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Q Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree (FY23 N=~142; FY20 N=240) Weighted Mean Rating of Trust *Significantly different between years 8 9 Overall Attitudes toward the World Bank Group “The Bank's effectiveness will only increase if its visibility is enhanced through the successful implementation of projects. Good management and ownership of projects by those implementing them is crucial for the projects to turn into benefits. By communicating more effectively with the managers and groups implementing the projects, the Bank can increase both the success of the projects and its effectiveness in Turkey.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to help increase its effectiveness in Türkiye? (N=78) Significant Improvement Across Key Performance Indicators In FY23, respondents perceived the WBG as significantly Alignment with development 6.9 more aligned with development priorities in Türkiye, priorities* 6.0 more relevant and effective in achieving development results, as well as having more influence on the development agenda in Türkiye. 6.8 Relevance* 5.7 This increase in ratings was mainly driven by significantly improved perceptions of those who collaborated with Effectiveness in achieving 6.6 the WBG – in this group, increases in all key performance indicators (KPIs), except for alignment with the country’s results^* 5.5 FY23 priorities, were statistically significant. Perceptions of those FY20 who did not collaborate with the WBG remained statistically similar to the FY20 findings. Influences the development 6.1 agenda* 5.0 5.7 Ends extreme poverty 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Weighted Mean Rating The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Türkiye. Scale: 1Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree *Significantly different between years Q To what extent does the WBG influence the development agenda in Türkiye? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree How effective has the WBG been in achieving development results in Türkiye? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Türkiye. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work helps end extreme poverty in Türkiye. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree ^Compared to a mean score of the two questions asked in FY20: "Overall, please rate your impression of the WBG’s effectivenes s in Türkiye. Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective; To what extent does the WBG’s work help to achieve development results in Tür kiye? Scale: 1 10 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree Private Sector Respondents 7.7 Demonstrate Consistently Trust in the WBG* 5.8 7.2 Positive Perceptions of the 8.0 WBG 6.7 6.5 Government Effectiveness achieving Institution Among all stakeholder groups, private sector results* 4.8 respondents gave the highest ratings across all 7.8 KPIs, while respondents from non-government organizations gave significantly lower ratings. Of Bilateral / note, non-government respondents also reported 6.7 Multilateral the lowest levels of familiarity with the WBG. Agency 6.9 Relevance* 5.2 7.9 Non- Government Organization 7.0 Alignment with development 6.9 Q priorities* 5.7 Private Sector The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in 7.7 Türkiye. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree To what extent do you trust the WBG to do what is right? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree 6.3 To what extent does the WBG influence the development agenda in Türkiye? Influences the development 6.2 *Significantly Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree agenda* 4.3 different between How effective has the WBG been in achieving development stakeholder groups results in Türkiye? 6.7 Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Türkiye. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Mean Rating 11 Familiarity Leads to More Positive Perceptions 7.9 Comparing ratings of key performance indicators among Trust in the WBG* 6.9 respondents highly familiar with the WBG (ratings of 8- 4.8 10 on a 10-point scale) and those with little familiarity with the WBG (ratings of 1-4 on a 10-point scale), one 7.3 can see that the more familiar stakeholders are with the Alignment with development 6.3 WBG, the more positive perceptions they have of the priorities* WBG and its work. 4.9 7.1 Meaningful engagement and outreach can continue Relevance* 6.4 to increase positive perceptions. 4.7 7.0 Effectiveness in achieving results* 6.1 4.5 6.6 Influences the development 5.5 agenda* 3.3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating How familiar are you with the work of the WBG in Türkiye? High Familiarity (8-10) Some Familiarity (5-7) Low Familiarity (1-4) The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Türkiye. Scale: 1Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree *Significantly different between Q To what extent do you trust the WBG to do what is right? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree levels of familiarity To what extent does the WBG influence the development agenda in Türkiye? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree How effective has the WBG been in achieving development results in Türkiye? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Türkiye. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 12 KPI Ratings are Lower in Türkiye than in other FY23 Europe and Central Asia and IBRD Countries However, trust ratings were on par with other IBRD countries. 7.4 Trust in the WBG 7.6 7.4 6.9 Alignment with development priorities 7.6 7.2 Türkiye FY23 6.7 Relevance 7.4 7.2 Other ECA FY23 * 6.6 Effectiveness in achieving results 7.4 Other IBRD ** FY23 7.1 6.1 Influences the development agenda 7.0 6.9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating * Other FY23 ECA countries included Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, North Macedonia, Serbia, Romania, Montenegro, Kyrgyz Republic, Uzbekistan 13 ** Other FY23 IBRD countries included Albania, Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Egypt, Jamaica, Malaysia, Mongolia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, and South Africa Stakeholder Trends across Performance Indicators Respondents from the private sector and government institutions had the highest mean ratings across the aggregated responses to the nineteen COS indicator questions whereas respondents from non-government All Respondents 6.7 organizations had the lowest ratings. ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who indicated that they collaborate with the WBG gave significantly higher Private Sector 7.1 ratings across the aggregated indicator questions compared to respondents who do not collaborate with the WBG: Government Institutions 7.0 Mean rating: Collaborate with WBG = 7.0 Do not collaborate = 5.8 Bilateral / Multilateral Agency 6.7 Non-Government Organization 5.4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Aggregated Indicator Questions Q All Indicator Questions were asked on a Scale from 1 to 10. Click here for details of these Indicator Questions. 14 15 World Bank’s Support in Development Areas “To contribute more to the infrastructure of Organized Industrial Zones and the development of technology and innovation centers. To increase and further develop projects in the field of education. To ensure more effective use of communication channels while doing so..” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to help increase its effectiveness in Türkiye? (N=78) Development Areas 12% in FY20 Climate change 46% Environment / for WBG Focus Natural resource management Education 38% 41% In FY23, climate change was the top area where 5% in FY20 Disaster risk mitigation 37% stakeholders would like the WBG to focus its resources, Agriculture and food security 36% followed by environment/natural resource management, education, disaster risk management, agriculture, and job Job creation / employment 36% creation. Gender equity 25% High priority for non-gov ▪ Although education and job creation/employment were Public sector governance 24% organizations (50%) among the top priorities identified in FY20, respondents in Macroeconomic stability 24% this year’s survey considered climate change and disaster risk management a much greater priority for the Urban development 24% WBG’s focus. Private sector development 19% High priority for private sector (46%) Social Inclusion 16% High priority for non- Water supply and sanitation gov organizations In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG 15% (35%) infrastructure could do to help increase its effectiveness in Türkiye? Energy / Extractives 15% “Contributing more to Equitable Education and ensuring that the Digital Development 13% eastern part of Turkey has access to digital education as much as the western parts of Turkey.” (Civil Society Respondent) Social protection 13% Debt sustainability 8% “Increasing the awareness of environmental sustainability among SMEs can help make the economic system more sustainable at a Health 7% broader level..” (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) Transport 6% Crime and violence 6% Regional integration 6% Trade 5% 16 Q Which areas should the WBG prioritize in its work in Türkiye to have the most impact on development results in the country? (Choose no more than 5) (Percentage of Respondents, N=165) Other 1% Effectiveness of WBG’s Finance / Institutions / Economic Growth 6.8 Support in Sectoral Areas Private sector development* 5.6 6.7 Job creation / employment* 5.3 There was a positive trend in effectiveness ratings in most sectoral areas, with many of them having increased significantly compared to FY20. The Debt sustainability 6.6 WBG’s work in water supply and sanitation infrastructure received the highest ratings of effectiveness (weighted mean=7.2). Trade* 6.4 FY23 5.3 FY20 6.4 Human Development Regional integration Health 6.0 6.3 5.4 Public sector governance* 5.4 Gender equity 5.8 6.1 5.4 Macroeconomic stability Education 5.8 FY23 Infrastructure 5.6 FY20 Social inclusion 5.4 7.2 Water supply and sanitation infrastructure* 5.2 5.8 Social protection* 4.4 6.7 Energy / Extractives* 6.0 Environmental Sustainability 6.7 Climate change* 6.8 Urban development* 5.5 5.4 Environment / Natural resource 6.7 5.6 6.6 FY23 management* FY23 Transport* 5.4 Disaster risk mitigation* 6.2 FY20 5.3 FY20 *Significantly different 6.0 6.7 between years Digital development Agriculture and food security* 5.5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Weighted Mean Rating of Effectiveness Weighted Mean Rating of Effectiveness How effective do you believe the WBG is in terms of the work it does in the following areas of development in Türkiye? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective (If Q you have NO exposure to/experience in working in any of the sectors listed below, please respond “Don’t know”) 17 18 World Bank Group’s Work and Engagement on the Ground in Türkiye “Increasing the awareness of environmental sustainability among SMEs can help make the economic system more sustainable at a broader level.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to help increase its effectiveness in Türkiye? (N=78) Financial Resources are the Bank’s Greatest Value in Türkiye In FY23, financial resources (57%) were considered the WBG’s greatest value in Türkiye, according to respondents Providing financial resources 57% (34% in FY20). While capacity building and training were selected by only Capacity building and training 26% a quarter of the respondents, they discussed the importance of training and capacity building in qualitative comments, in Bringing together different stakeholder the context of the Bank’s operational effectiveness in Türkiye groups to support Türkiye’s 22% development efforts (please see some examples below). Providing advisory services and analytics to support design or 21% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG implementation of policies could do to help increase its effectiveness in Türkiye? Providing support for global public “…Improving technical and institutional capacity should also be goods in Türkiye 21% among the priority targets during the project cycle. Narrowing the gap between the predicted results of the projects on paper Producing research on global and the field reality should be considered as a permanent gain 17% development issues along with the projects and the necessary infrastructure for the team, staff, and equipment with both field experience (application experience) and project management ability.” Providing data and statistics 16% (Government Institution Respondent) “As these types of projects are typically undertaken by public Mobilizing third-party financial 11% institutions, it is imperative that workflows within these resources institutions are redesigned to be effective and efficient. This will require an increase in both the quantity and quality of staff Other 1% capacity…” (Government Institution Respondent) When thinking about the WBG’s role in Türkiye, which activity do you VALUE the most? (Choose no more than 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=149) 19 The WBG Consistently Seen as a Long-Term Partner In FY23, respondents perceived the WBG as a significantly more responsive, accessible, and flexible long-term 7.7 partner than in FY20. Being a long-term partner ▪ While perceptions of responsiveness have significantly 7.2 improved among those respondents who collaborate with the WBG, perceptions of flexibility have improved significantly both among those who collaborate with the 7.0 WBG and those who do not. Access to WBG staff and experts* 6.2 ▪ As with other aspects of WBG work in Türkiye, respondents from non-government organizations FY23 gave somewhat lower ratings to all four questions compared to other stakeholder groups. FY20 6.7 Flexibility when circumstances change* 5.4 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG 6.7 could do to help increase its effectiveness in Türkiye? Responsiveness to needs* “[The WBG should] establish long-term and permanent 5.6 relationships with institutions in Turkey.” (Private Sector Respondent) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Weighted Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Türkiye, in terms of each 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 FY20. *Significantly different between years The WBG is Increasingly Seen as Collaborating Effectively with Stakeholders The national/federal 7.2 In FY23, respondents perceived the WBG as collaborating government* 6.5 significantly more effectively with the national government, with other donors/development partners, and with civil society than 7.1 Regional development banks in FY20. ▪ Of note, respondents from bilateral/multilateral agencies gave 7.0 the lowest ratings for WBG’s collaboration with other Local government development partners (mean = 5.9), while respondents from non- government organizations rated the Bank’s collaboration with Other donors and development 7.0 civil society at the same level as in FY20 (mean=5.5). partners* 6.2 6.3 Private sector In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG 5.8 FY23 could do to help increase its effectiveness in Türkiye? FY20 6.2 “More presence and engagement with donors and UN organizations. Civil society* 5.6 This is a repeated feedback that I've heard about the WB in the country. This is especially important with the earthquake transition to recovery, as we move from the humanitarian agenda. WB has done a great job Academia/think tanks/research 6.0 coordinating with other IFIs, but need to make sure to inform donors and institutions coordinate with humanitarian actors on the ground as well (and not just at the technical level).” 5.6 (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) Parliament/legislative branch “Involvement and inclusion of civil society organizations in all processes.” 5.0 Media (Civil Society Respondent) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Weighted Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Türkiye, in terms of collaborating with the following Q groups? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree *Significantly different between years 21 Stakeholders want the Bank to Collaborate More with Local Government and Civil Society High priority for non- Respondents in this year’s survey indicated that the WBG gov organizations Local government 54% (72%) should collaborate more with local government and civil society, followed by the national government. Civil society (e.g., NGOs, CBOs) 46% Top priority for non-gov The national/federal government 39% organizations In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG (88%) could do to help increase its effectiveness in Türkiye? “The number of local governments involved in World Bank Private sector 33% projects needs to expand across the country.” (Government Institution Respondent) Other donors and development 32% partners “[The WBG should] cooperate with non-governmental organizations in order to ensure more effective use of resources. It is necessary to pay attention to how much of the Regional development banks 31% resources allocated to the country are used directly for the target..” (Academia Respondent) Academia/think tanks/research 31% institutions Parliament/legislative branch 10% Media 7% Other 2% Which THREE of the following groups should the WBG collaborate with more in Türkiye? (Choose no more than 3) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=147) 22 23 World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work “Thematic reports, public knowledge base, clearer information on implemented projects and dissemination of good practice examples.” (Government Institution Respondent) “Influence the public sector reform and help stabilize the economy. The works on social protection and inclusion of refugees in this regard have progressed but more can be done. WBG can play an additional leadership role on the conditionality of loans for social inclusion.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to help increase its effectiveness in Türkiye? (N=78) WBG Lending is Seen as Increasingly Timely and Meeting Türkiye’s Needs Respondents gave the highest ratings for the WBG insisting on The WBG insists on 8.3 accountability through its lending. Ratings for the WBG’s accountability through its lending instruments meeting Türkiye’s needs and for the timeliness of its financial support were significantly higher in FY23 than in FY20. The conditions of the WBG’s 7.7 ▪ An increase in perceptions of the timeliness of the WBG financing are competitive support was significant both among those who collaborate compared to markets. with the WBG and those who do not collaborate. FY23 ▪ Respondents from bilateral/multilateral agencies gave 7.6 FY20 significantly lower ratings for the WBG’s insisting on The WBG provides financial support in a timely manner.*^ accountability and for meeting the country’s needs than other 5.2 stakeholder groups. The WBG’s financial 7.1 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG instruments meet the needs of could do to help increase its effectiveness in Türkiye? Türkiye* 5.5 “Improve project management efficiency and speed. Allocate additional resources as required for development.” 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 (Bilateral/Multilateral Agency) Weighted Mean Rating To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q ^Compared to “The World Bank Group disburses funds promptly” asked in FY20. *Significantly different between years 24 Most Respondents Have Used the WBG’s Knowledge Work More than half of all respondents (52%) reported that they Have you used the WBG’s advisory have used the WBG’s knowledge work in the past. services and analytics in the past? Respondents from the private sector and government institutions were more likely to have used WBG’s Not sure knowledge work (58% and 57%, respectively) compared to 16% respondents from other stakeholder groups. In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Yes could do to help increase its effectiveness in Türkiye? 52% “Organizing more frequent training events” No (Private Sector Respondent) 32% “It is important to accurately identify the needs of institutions and develop customized solutions instead of using general recommendations. Additionally, improving communication with counterpart institutions is essential.” (Government Institution Respondent) Have you used the WBG’s advisory services and analytics in the past? (Percentage of Respondents, N=142) Q To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree *Significantly different between recall yes/no 25 Stakeholders Value WBG Knowledge Work, Anticipate Using it in the Future Perceptions of the WBG knowledge work have I anticipate using the WBG's advisory 8.4 improved significantly since FY20 for most services and analytical work in the future. indicators. The WBG brings global expertise to Türkiye 7.8 Respondents had the highest levels of agreement as part of its advisory services and analytical that they anticipate using the WBG’s advisory work. 7.5 services and analytical work in the future and that the WBG brings global expertise to Türkiye as part of 7.6 The WBG’s advisory services and analytical its advisory services and analytical work. work are timely.* 6.4 ▪ Improved perceptions were mainly driven by FY23 respondents who collaborate with the WBG, I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s 7.5 advisory services and analytical work in FY20 except for the ratings for the timeliness of the Türkiye. WBG’s knowledge work, which grew significantly among both collaborators and non-collaborators. The WBG’s advice and recommendations 7.1 are tailored to Türkiye’s context.* ▪ Respondents from bilateral/multilateral agencies 5.9 were the most critical about WBG’s knowledge work (mean across all questions = 6.2), with 6.7 Contribution of WBG's knowledge work and significantly lower ratings on the timeliness of the activities to development results in Türkiye* 5.8 knowledge work and its being tailored to the Türkiye’s context. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Weighted Mean Rating To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q How significant a contribution do you believe the World Bank Group's knowledge work and activities make to development results in Türkiye? Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant ^Compared to "Are a source of relevant information on global good practices" and “Are adaptable to Türkiye’s specific 26 development challenges and country circumstances”, respectively, asked in FY20. *Significantly different between years 27 The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Türkiye What the WBG could do to Increase its Effectiveness in Türkiye Respondents provided a total of 78 comments to the question about the most important things the WBG In your opinion, what is the could do to help increase its effectiveness in Türkiye. Over a third of respondents touched upon the issues most important thing the WBG of operational effectiveness, discussed the areas for the WBG to focus on, and highlighted the need for could do to help increase its greater engagement with various stakeholder groups. A few respondents commented on WBG effectiveness in Türkiye? knowledge products and stressed the need for better communication around WBG work in the country Topics covered by respondents and the results. Other respondents mentioned WBG’s financial products and discussed possible areas of new loan/grant programs. The chart on the left shows the proportional distribution of these topics in Operational respondents’ comments*. Individual quotes are included below and throughout this report. 38% effectiveness “It is critical to simplify the procedures and clearly share these procedures with the beneficiary at the Focus area 35% project design stage, and to provide detailed training and capacity development before the project starts, especially on environmental social requirements and purchasing procedures, and even to Engagement 32% provide funding for external support.” (Government Institution Respondent) Knowledge 17% “The World Bank carries out many projects with many institutions, and some projects intersect on the basis of geography or activity. I think the bank should make such projects talk to each other from the Communication 13% design stage. In addition, the capacity of institutions, as well as the World Bank, on this issue, that is, on cooperation, needs to be increased. Institutions may avoid cooperation due to competition between Financial support 9% them.” (Government Institution Respondent) Results 6% “Renewable energy and climate change are critical issues that demand more attention.” (Government Institution Respondent) In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to help increase its effectiveness in Türkiye? (N=78) Q *Note that each comment could be tagged more than once, to include all topics it touched upon, and the total percentage does not sum to 100% 28 What the WBG could do to Increase its Effectiveness in Türkiye “First of all, it is very important to increase accessibility to clean water. While the entire environmental infrastructure is being created or rehabilitated, it should also try to minimize the negative social impact on society and make this visible. It is important to use TV, the most common mass media tool in the country, in this sense. Environmental, social, and financial sustainability should be explained to all citizens and these concepts should be internalized.” (Government Institution Respondent) “Contributing more to Equitable Education and ensuring that the eastern part of Turkey has access to digital education as much as the western parts of Turkey.” (Civil Society Respondent) “Influence the public sector reform and help stabilize the economy. The works on social protection and inclusion of refugees in this regard have progressed but more can be done. WBG can play an additional leadership role in the conditionality of loans for social inclusion.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) “Cooperation with NGOs and municipalities aiming to protect and improve the rights of marginalized social segments, including LGBTQ+ people.” (Civil Society Respondent) “It may be fruitful to work more widely with academic experts in Turkey. In particular, it is important that expert staff outside the three major provinces are able to participate in WB work.” (Academia Respondent) “It is important to increase the number of experts in the country office, be more active in the field, work closely with relevant public institutions and stakeholder organizations, have more active communication, and more effective coordination.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) “Communication and Visibility: Communication strategies should be created with a perspective that is understandable, explainable, visible, and demonstrable for all segments of the society of the implemented projects…” (Government Institution Respondent) In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group Q could do to help increase its effectiveness in Türkiye? (N=78) 29 30 Communication and Outreach “[The WBG should] obtain opinions from a wider range of society and to communicate what they are doing to a broader audience..” (Media Respondent) “Open, transparent information sharing.” (Academia Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to help increase its effectiveness in Türkiye? (N=78) Research Papers, Official Statistics, and Social Media were Most Common Information Sources Respondents relied on research papers, official statistics, and social media to get information about economic and social development issues. However, respondents from bilateral/multilateral agencies preferred newspapers as their main information source. Top 2 Information Sources Bilateral / Non- Government Multilateral Government Private All Respondents Institution Agency Organization Sector Research papers / Official statistics 67% 62% 78% 74% 67% Social media 64% 66% 48% 61% 83% Newspapers (Print or online) 50% 49% 65% 35% 56% e-Newsletters* 31% 41% 4% 35% 22% Television (TV) 24% 32% 13% 13% 17% Blogs 15% 11% 26% 22% 11% Podcasts* 8% 1% 13% 22% 11% Other 4% 1% 4% 9% 6% Radio 3% 3% 4% 4% 0% How do you get most of your information about economic and social development Q issues in Türkiye? (Choose no more than 3) (Percentage of Respondents, N=140) *Significantly different between stakeholder groups 31 Events were Most Preferred for Obtaining WBG Information Respondents reported using a variety of sources to obtain information from the WBG, but most preferred events, the website, social media, and direct contact with WBG staff. However, there were some significant differences among stakeholder groups in their most preferred sources. Preferred WBG Source Bilateral / Non- Government Multilateral Government Private All Respondents Institution Agency Organization Sector Event/conference/ seminar/workshop 60% 61% 57% 65% 58% Website 45% 51% 30% 30% 53% Social media 44% 45% 39% 35% 58% Direct contact with staff 41% 41% 52% 39% 32% e-Newsletters 39% 32% 39% 48% 58% Direct messaging 15% 16% 17% 13% 11% Interviews and press conferences 11% 7% 17% 17% 11% Podcasts 8% 4% 17% 13% 5% Blogs 7% 5% 4% 13% 11% How would you prefer to obtain information about the World Bank Group Q and its work? (Choose no more than 3) (Percentage of Respondents, N=141) *Significantly different between stakeholder groups 32 More than Half Engaged with the WBG in the Last 30 Days 53% of respondents recalled hearing or seeing something about the WBG in the last 30 days. Respondents from government institutions and bilateral/multilateral organizations were the most likely to recall seeing or hearing something about the WBG (63% and 67%, respectively), while respondents from non-government organizations were significantly less likely to do so (9%). Respondents reported getting this information most often through direct contact with the WBG staff or seeing it on social media. Among those who selected “Social media”, respondents most commonly reported seeing something on LinkedIn or Twitter. Direct contact with WBG staff 60% Social media 53% WBG Website 45% 80% Event / conference / seminar 31% Newspapers 16% Television (TV) 11% 45% e-Newsletters 11% Direct messaging 11% 15% 15% 8% 5% Blogs 7% LinkedIn Twitter Instagram WhatsApp Facebook YouTube Radio 1% Podcasts 1% Do you recall seeing or hearing anything about the WBG in the last 30 days? (N=142) Q Where do you recall seeing or hearing this information? (Check all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=75) 33 What social media platforms do you recall seeing this information on? (Check all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=40) WBG Work on Climate Change, Economic Forecasts, and Energy were the Most Commonly Recalled Topics World Bank Group work or research on… Respondents most frequently recalled WBG’s work or research on climate change and energy, as well as its economic Climate change (mitigation, adaptation) 60% forecasts. ▪ Respondents who selected the “Other” option, consistently Economic forecasts 37% mentioned WBG’s relief and recovery efforts in the aftermath of the earthquake in Türkiye. Energy (increasing energy supply, 35% reducing dependence of fossil fuels) Debt relief for developing countries 19% Other 16% Support for education systems in 15% developing countries Food insecurity 11% Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, 11% provide support for vaccine acquisition 34 Q What topics were included in what you saw or heard? (Check all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=75) Climate Change Communications Can be More Impactful When Related to Stakeholders’ Top Concern: Forest Fires A majority of respondents were very concerned about the forest fires when it comes to the potential impacts of climate change in Türkiye. Diminished water supply and more frequent and severe droughts were also of great concern to respondents. These key areas of concern should be taken into consideration to make communications about climate change more impactful. Not at all A little Somewhat concerned Very concerned Forest fires 84% Diminished water supply for people and the economy 76% More frequent and severe droughts / heatwaves 75% Decreased crop yields/food insecurity 73% Land and forest degradation 70% Unsafe drinking water 67% More frequent and severe floods 66% Increase in natural disasters (for example, cyclones or sea-level surges) 65% Extinction of plant/animal species 59% Effects on public health 58% Air pollution 57% Climate-driven migration 54% Loss of jobs 50% Increase erosion of shoreline 43% Q What is your level of concern for each of the potential impacts of climate change as it affects Türkiye? (Percentage of Respondents, N=~147) 35 Message Recall Leads to Message Agreement and More Positive Perceptions of the WBG Respondents who recalled seeing or hearing something about the WBG in the last 30 days consistently gave The WBG helps countries boost climate higher ratings on all key messages regarding the WBG’s 7.7 resilience and mitigate the effects of work. The difference was significant for climate change- climate challenge* 6.7 related work. The WBG supports countries to ensure 7.6 These respondents also reported significantly higher transition to more diversified and cleaner sources of energy 6.9 levels of familiarity (mean=8.6) compared to those who reported not hearing or seeing anything about the WBG The WBG is working with governments, (means=6.8). the private sector, and other partners to 7.0 support critical facilities during the 6.3 Heard In addition, respondents who recalled seeing or hearing COVID-19 pandemic about the something about the WBG gave significantly higher ratings The WBG is committed to WBG in last comprehensive debt solutions that bring 6.8 30 days for the WBG’s effectiveness (mean=7.0), relevance significant benefits to people in poor (mean=7.2), alignment (mean=7.3), and influence 6.6 countries (mean=6.5) compared to those who reported not hearing Did not or seeing anything about the WBG recently (means=6.2, The WBG provides support to improve 6.8 hear about access and quality of education in the WBG in 6.3, 6.5, and 5.6, respectively). developing countries. 6.4 last 30 days These findings suggest that respondents who are The WBG helps address the current more frequently exposed to information about the food crisis and enables greater 6.7 preparedness to future food security 6.0 WBG, or who actively engage with WBG staff and crises knowledge work (read research papers, etc.) are also 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 more likely to hold more positive views about the Mean Rating WBG’s work. Do you recall seeing or hearing anything about the WBG in the last 30 days? *Significantly different between recall yes/no 36 Q To what extent do you agree with the following statements: Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree More Frequent Engagement ➔ More Message Recall Respondents who recalled hearing something about the WBG in the last 30 days had significantly more frequent interactions with the institution across all channels. Yes – Recalled seeing/hearing something No – Did not recall seeing/hearing about the WBG in last 30 days something about the WBG in last 30 days Had an exchange with WBG staff, in person, virtually, or by 61% 24% Read or heard a story about the 28% 39% phone/email/text WBG in national or local media Visited a WBG website (e.g., read a Read a WBG post / tweet on social 55% 22% 28% 33% blog, used its data) media Read a WBG post / tweet on social Read or heard a story about the 51% 22% 27% 37% media WBG in international media Read or heard a story about the Had an exchange with WBG staff, in 42% 35% person, virtually, or by 24% 40% WBG in national or local media phone/email/text Read or heard a story about the Visited a WBG website (e.g., read a 39% 35% 22% 43% WBG in international media blog, used its data) Read some, or all, of a WBG Read some, or all, of a WBG 35% 42% 15% 49% research paper or publication research paper or publication Attended a WBG Attended a WBG 31% 49% 7% 43% event/conference/seminar/workshop event/conference/seminar/workshop Read a WBG e-newsletter 28% 27% Read a WBG e-newsletter 7% 39% Every few days/weeks Every few months Every few days/weeks Every few months Over the past SIX MONTHS, on average how often did you do any of the following related to the WBG? (Percentage of Respondents, N=~129) Q Do you recall seeing or hearing anything about the WBG in the last 30 days? (Yes N=75; No N=67) 37 38 Demographics of the Sample and Detailed Methodology Demographics of the Sample Which, if any, of the following is the primary Currently, do you specialization of your work? (N=139) professionally No collaborate/work 21% Social protection, labor policies, jobs 11% with the WBG in Finance and markets 11% Türkiye? (N=167) Generalist (specialize in multiple sectors) 9% Water, sanitation 9% Respondents from government institutions Gender 8% and bilateral/multilateral agencies were significantly more likely to indicate that Yes Agriculture and food security 6% they collaborate with the WBG 79% (48% and 55%, respectively) compared to Energy/Extractives 6% respondents from other stakeholder groups. Disaster risk management 5% Environment/Natural resource management 4% Climate change 4% The World Bank (IBRD) 77% Urban development 4% Macroeconomics, fiscal management 4% Which of the following agencies The International Education 3% Finance Corporation 5% of the WBG do (IFC) Health 2% you primarily The Multilateral Public sector governance, anti-corruption 2% collaborate/work Investment Guarantee 1% Transport 1% with in Türkiye? Agency (MIGA) (N=167) None of the above, I do None of the above 1% not currently collaborate with the World Bank 17% Digital development 1% Group Trade 1% Other 7% 39 Demographics of the Sample Within your Junior organization, would level you describe 10% What’s your yourself as… ? Mid-level gender? Female Senior level (N=139) 19% staff (N=141) 45% 40% Male 55% Mid-level decision- maker / manager 31% What’s your age? Which best represents your geographic (N=141) 25 and under 1% location? (N=140) 26-35 20% Ankara 66% 36-45 42% Istanbul 28% 46-55 25% 56 and above 13% Other area 6% 40 Detailed Methodology From June 2023 to August 2023, a total of 1,151 stakeholders in Türkiye were invited to provide their opinions on the WBG’s work by participating in a Country Percentage of FY 2020 FY 2023 Opinion Survey. A list of potential participants was compiled by the WBG country Respondents FY 2020 FY 2023 weighted weighted team and the fielding agency. Participants were drawn from the Office of the Government Institutions 42% 54% 50% 50% President, Prime Minister, minister, office of a parliamentarian, government institutions, local governments, bilateral/multilateral agencies, the private sector, civil society, academia, and the media. Bilateral/Multilateral 6% 35% 9% 11% Agency Of these stakeholders, 167 participated in the survey (15% response rate). Respondents completed the questionnaires online. Private Sector 26% 17% 20% 20% The results of this year’s survey were compared to the FY20 Survey with a response rate of 35% (N=289). Civil Society 26% 5% 20% 20% Comparing responses across Country Surveys reflects changes in attitudes over time, but also changes in respondent samples and the survey instrument Total Number of 264 167 Respondents itself. To reduce the influence of the latter factor, only those questions with similar response scales/options were analyzed. To address the differences in the sample composition, the data were weighted to reach comparable stakeholder composition in two years (please see the table to the right). Key statistically significant findings (tested at the research standard of p < .05) are noted throughout the report. Breakdowns for individual questions by stakeholder group can be found in the “Türkiye COS FY23 Appendices with data breakdowns.xlsx” file published in the WBG Microdata Library, along with the survey microdata and this report. 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. To what extent do you trust the World Bank Group to do what is right? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree A2. How effective has the World Bank Group been in achieving development results in Türkiye? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements about the WBG’s work in Türkiye? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree A3. The World Bank Group currently plays a relevant role in development in Türkiye. A4. The World Bank Group’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Türkiye. A5. The World Bank Group’s work helps end extreme poverty in Türkiye. A6. To what extent does the World Bank Group influence the development agenda in Türkiye? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree A7. How significant a contribution do you believe the World Bank Group's knowledge work and activities make to development results in your country? Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant To what extent is the World Bank Group an effective development partner in Türkiye, in terms of each of the following? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree C2. Responsiveness to needs C3. Access to WBG staff and experts C5. Flexibility when circumstances change C6. Being a long-term partner To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Türkiye, in terms of collaborating with the following groups: Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree C7_1.Collaboration with the national/federal government C7_5.Collaboration with the private sector C7_6.Collaboration with civil society C7_7.Collaboration with other donor and development partners To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree C8_1. The WBG’s financial instruments meet the needs of Türkiye (i.e., investment lending, Development Policy Loan, Trust Funds). C8_4. The WBG provides financial support in a timely manner. C10_1. I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s advisory services and analytical work in Türkiye. C10_4. The WBG’s advice and recommendations are tailored to Türkiye’s context. 42 Thank you For more information about this report or the Country Opinion Survey program, please contact: countrysurveys@worldbankgroup.org