FY 2024 Maldives Country Opinion Survey Report ECR Business Intelligence Team | November 2024 Acknowledgements The Maldives 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 support for the data analysis. BI acknowledges the significant contribution from the Maldives country team and independent field agency, Environment Strategy Group (ESG). In particular, BI is grateful for the support from Ibrahim Rishad (Operation Officer) and Mariyam Ajfaan (Team Assistant), who coordinated the survey-related activities in Male, Maldives. 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 Maldives World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Maldives 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 Maldives 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 regarding its effectiveness, relevance, alignment with Maldives’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 Maldives? Are opinions improving or declining? 5. Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work: What do key stakeholders value the most regarding the WBG’s work in Maldives? 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 do stakeholders recall when the WBG communicates? 4 Methodology Overview Government Institution 46% ▪ Fielded in April – July 2024 ▪ 355 potential participants were asked to complete a mostly Civil Society Organization 16% quantitative survey ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online Private Sector 14% ▪ List of names provided by the WBG country team and supplemented by the field agency ▪ Process managed on the ground by the field agency Bilateral / Multilateral Agency 10% ▪ 128 participants (36% response rate) Local Government 5% ▪ 56% currently collaborate with the WBG Office of the President / ▪ 78% from the Greater Malé Region Minister 4% ▪ Compared to FY21 Country Survey Office of a Parliamentarian 2% ▪ 86 participants (23% response rate) ▪ 35% collaborated with the WBG Academia / Research Centers 2% ▪ 94% from the Greater Malé Region Media 2% Click here for details of the Respondent Sample and Methodology. What is your primary professional affiliation? (Select only 1 response) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=128) 5 6 Overall Context “To align the priorities of the Bank to the development needs of the country and its private sector.” (Private Sector Respondent) “Aligning projects and financing to broader policy goals to achieve long -term objectives. Increase commitment to human resource development, especially targeted to rural development in vulnerable sectors, to achieve balanced economies of scale for future development. Help develop instruments to strengthen private sector financing and accountability, government frameworks to reduce society’s dependency on public sector finance.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Maldives? (N=74) Increased Familiarity with the World Bank Group ▪ Comparison of FY21 and FY24: Respondents in this year’s All Respondents 7.3 Country Survey reported significantly higher levels of familiarity with the World Bank compared to respondents in the FY21 Survey: Private Sector 7.9 Mean familiarity: FY24 = 7.3 FY21 = 5.8 ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who indicated Bilateral / Multilateral Agencies 7.7 that they collaborate with the WBG reported significantly higher levels of familiarity with the institution’s work: Mean familiarity: Collaborate with WBG = 8.4 Government Institutions 7.3 Do not collaborate = 6.0 Stakeholders: Respondents from the private sector indicated the highest familiarity with the WBG, whereas respondents from the broader civil society had relatively lower familiarity ratings. Broader Civil Society^ 6.6 However, these differences did not reach a statistically significant level. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Familiarity Note: Insufficient sample from the Office of the President, Minister, or Office of a Parliamentarian to include in the stakeholder analysis How familiar are you with the work of the World Bank Group in Maldives? Q Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Very familiar ^Broader Civil Society included respondents from civil society organizations, academia/research centers, and media 7 Stakeholders Most Familiar with the UN and WBG ▪ Respondents in this year’s Country Survey were asked to United Nations 7.7 indicate their familiarity with the work of several international organizations and the World Bank Group. Of these organizations, respondents in Maldives indicated the highest World Bank Group 7.3 levels of familiarity with the work of the United Nations (UN), followed by the WBG. Respondents were least familiar with the work of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). Asian Development Bank 7.2 ▪ Of note, the private sector respondents indicated a (ADB) significantly higher level of familiarity with the work of AIIB (mean = 7.6) compared to other groups. International Monetary Fund 6.5 European Union 6.2 Asian Infrastructure Investment 5.6 Bank (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 Maldives? Q Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Very familiar 8 Central Bank, UN, and Civil Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) / 7.6 Central Bank of the Maldives* 5.9 Society Received the United Nations* 7.6 7.0 Highest Trust Ratings Civil society (e.g., NGOs, CBOs)* 7.6 6.9 Trust in the institutions was higher this year, with respondents 7.5 Academia / research centers giving the highest trust ratings for the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA), followed by the UN and civil society, 7.5 World Bank Group 7.0 which have significantly improved since FY21. The WBG’s trust ratings have also increased this year; however, the International Monetary Fund 7.3 6.8 change remained below the threshold for statistical significance. Regional development bank (Asian 7.3 Development Bank)* 6.4 FY24 FY21 Although trust ratings for the media, private sector, and U.S. Agency for International 7.1 national government have improved since FY21, these Development (USAID) institutions still hold some of the lowest ratings this year. 7.1 National government* 5.5 7.1 Local government 6.7 Private sector* 5.6 6.0 Media* 4.9 6.0 Parliament / legislative branch 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 Maldives? Mean Rating of Trust Q Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much *Significant difference between years 9 10 Overall Attitudes toward the World Bank Group “World Bank should be proactive in solving issues. Furthermore, there is a need for enhanced flexibility in the implementation of Bank guidelines and procedures.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Maldives? (N=74) Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Improved Since FY21 In FY24, respondents rated the WBG significantly higher 7.5 Relevant role in development* regarding its relevance in the Maldives, its effectiveness in 6.7 achieving development results, and its positive influence on shaping developing policy than the FY21 Survey. The ratings on the WBG’s alignment with development priorities Effectiveness in helping 7.3 also improved. Maldives achieve results*^ 6.4 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the 7.3 Positive influence on shaping WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Maldives? FY24 development policy*^^ 6.3 “The awareness and the lack of information within the FY21 Maldivian society reduces the effectiveness of the WBG's scope.” Alignment with development 7.0 (Private Sector Respondent) priorities 6.4 “Having a proper and more formal coordination system in place and ensuring the WB staff follows a good system, especially during missions.” 6.7 (Government Institution Respondent) Helps end poverty in Maldives 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Maldives. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q How effective is the WBG in helping Maldives achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective *Significant difference between years The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in Maldives. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Maldives. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work helps end poverty in Maldives. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree ^Compared to a mean score of the two questions asked in FY21: "Overall, please rate your impression of the WBG’s effectivenes s in Maldives. Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective; To what extent does the WBG’s work help to achieve development results in Maldives? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree 11 ^^In FY21, this was asked as "To what extent does the World Bank Group influence the development agenda in Maldives?” (1 -To no degree at all, 10-To a very significant degree)". Most Stakeholder 7.5 Groups are Positive Trust the WBG to do what is right for Maldives 6.3 8.1 about WBG’s Work 7.9 7.5 Comparisons of ratings for key performance Effectiveness in helping 6.9 indicators among stakeholder groups show that Maldives achieve results 6.5 respondents from the private sector, government, and bilateral/multilateral agencies generally 7.2 Government Institutions provided positive ratings for the WBG’s work. However, some variation was observed across 7.4 these groups. 7.6 Bilateral / Relevant role in Multilateral development 7.1 Agencies In contrast, respondents from the broader civil 7.9 society generally gave more moderate ratings, Broader Civil with a significant difference in their assessment of Society the WBG’s positive influence on shaping 7.2 Positive influence on development policy in the Maldives. 7.7 Private Sector shaping development policy* 6.2 8.2 6.9 How much do you trust the WBG to do what is right for Maldives? Q Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much Alignment with 7.5 How effective is the WBG in helping Maldives achieve development development priorities 6.3 results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Maldives. 7.3 Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 in Maldives. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Mean Rating The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development *Significant difference between groups priorities for Maldives. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 12 Familiarity Leads to More Positive Perceptions 8.0 Comparing ratings of key performance indicators among Relevant role in development* 7.1 respondents highly familiar with the WBG (ratings of 8- 6.3 10 on a 10-point scale) and those with little familiarity with the WBG (ratings of 1-4 on a 10-point scale), one 7.9 can see that the more familiar stakeholders are with the Positive influence on shaping 6.8 development policy* WBG, the more positive their perceptions of it and its 5.6 work are. 7.9 Trust the WBG to do what 7.3 Meaningful engagement and outreach can continue is right for Maldives* 5.9 to increase positive perceptions. 7.6 Effectiveness in helping Maldives 7.1 achieve results* 6.1 7.4 Alignment with development 6.9 priorities* 5.5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating How familiar are you with the work of the WBG in Maldives? High Familiarity (8-10) Some Familiarity (5-7) Low Familiarity (1-4) The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Maldives. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in Maldives. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree *Significant difference between levels of familiarity How much do you trust the WBG to do what is right for Maldives? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much How effective is the WBG in helping Maldives achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Maldives. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 13 Maldives’ Key Performance Indicators are Higher than those of Other South Asia and IDA Countries Surveyed in FY24 7.5 Relevant role in development 7.2 7.1 7.5 Trust the WBG to do what 7.1 is right for Maldives 7.0 Maldives FY24 7.3 Effectiveness in helping Maldives Other SAR FY24 7.2 achieve results 7.1 Other IDA FY24 7.3 Positive influence on shaping 7.0 development policy 6.9 7.0 Alignment with development priorities 7.0 6.8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating Other FY24 South Asia countries included Bhutan and Sri Lanka Q Other FY24 IDA countries included: Benin, Bhutan, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Chad, Comoros, Guinea-Bissau, Lao PDR, Lesotho, Mauritania, Paraguay, Senegal, 14 Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Togo, and Zambia Stakeholder Trends Across Performance Indicators Respondents from the bilateral / multilateral agencies had the highest mean ratings across the aggregated responses All Respondents 7.0 to the nineteen COS indicator questions. In contrast, respondents from the broader civil society reported lower ratings; however, these differences did not reach a statistically significant level. Bilateral / Multilateral Agencies 7.3 ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who indicated that they collaborate with the WBG gave significantly higher ratings across the aggregated Government Institutions 7.1 indicator questions compared to respondents who did not collaborate with the WBG: Mean rating: Collaborate with WBG = 7.6 Do not collaborate = 6.1 Private Sector 7.0 Broader Civil Society 6.2 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. 15 16 World Bank Group’s Support for Development Areas “The World Bank Group (WBG) should prioritize sustainable development strategies that address climate resilience and environmental sustainability. Given the Maldives' vulnerability to climate change, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events, this focus is critical for the country's long- term economic stability and social well-being.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Maldives? (N=74) Development Areas Public sector governance 41% Macroeconomic stability 38% for WBG Focus Debt management 37% Digital infrastructure development 33% Public sector governance was the top area where stakeholders Climate change 31% would like the WBG to focus its resources in FY24. Digital Environment / natural resource 30% infrastructure development has also risen as a key priority, management gaining more attention than in the FY21 survey.^ Private sector development 29% Conversely, the focus on job creation and employment, which Financial markets development 27% ranked highest in FY21, has seen a significant decline in Agriculture / food security 25% prioritization. Education 23% Urban development 18% Health / pandemic preparedness 18% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Energy 18% could do to increase its effectiveness in Maldives? Waste management 16% “Provide capacity building services, and training and technical Transport infrastructure 14% assistance. Furthermore, it assists the country in restructuring debt and providing easy and flexible means to overcome the Jobs 12% financial crisis. Provide assistance to boost the economic growth of the country to prosper economic development.” Gender equity 11% (Government Principal Respondent) Social protection 10% Water / sanitation 6% Other 3% Which areas should the WBG prioritize to have the most impact on development results in Maldives? Q (Select up to 5) (Percentage of Respondents, N=125) 17 ^Compared to “Information and communications technology (including digital transformation)” in FY21 Effectiveness of WBG’s Sectoral Support The WBG’s work in education received the highest effectiveness ratings. Respondents’ ratings for most areas have increased compared to FY21, particularly in social inclusion, digital development, transport, water supply / management infrastructure, and environment / natural resource management. Human Development Finance / Institutions / Economic Growth 7.0 Macroeconomic stability 6.6 Education 6.8 Debt sustainability 6.6 6.5 Health 6.0 Public sector governance 6.4 6.5 6.5 FY24 6.4 FY24 Social protection 6.5 Regional integration FY21 FY21 Job creation / employment 6.3 6.3 5.6 Social inclusion 5.4 Trade 6.2 6.2 Gender equity 6.0 6.2 Private sector development 5.9 Infrastructure Environmental Sustainability Water supply /waste management infrastructure 6.7 5.9 6.7 Climate change 6.6 6.4 Energy / extractives 6.3 Digital development^ 6.5 Environment / natural resource 6.5 5.6 FY24 management 5.7 Urban development 6.3 FY24 FY21 FY21 6.0 Transport 5.7 Agriculture and food security^^ 5.0 6.0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Effectiveness 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 Maldives? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective Q ^ Compared to “Information and communications technology ” asked in FY21. 18 ^^ Compared to a mean score of “Agriculture” and “Food security, safety and accessibility” asked in FY21. 19 World Bank Group’s Engagement on the Ground in Maldives “Engage local councils in determining the needs of the citizens and focus on implementing actions that will have significant results or impacts on society.” (Government Principal Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Maldives? (N=74) The WBG is Recognized as a Long-Term Partner and Has Become More Accessible In FY24, respondents continued to view the WBG as a long- 7.5 Being a long-term partner to term partner for the Maldives. They also perceived WBG staff Maldives 7.7 and experts as more accessible compared to FY21. Additionally, respondents gave higher ratings for the WBG’s responsiveness to the country’s needs, while perceptions of 6.9 the institution’s flexibility and openness in sharing data and Access to WBG staff and information remained moderately positive. experts* 5.9 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Maldives? Responsiveness to needs in 6.8 Maldives FY24 “Close collaboration with donors, local govt, and CSOs. Hold 6.3 FY21 the central government accountable and consider the consequences of not doing so. Also, carefully consider improved governance and the long-term positive effects it can Openness (sharing data and 6.6 have on macroeconomic stability and development. WB other information) leverage is substantial but only when transparently and 6.8 consistently deployed. Thank you for what you do, WB team!” (Bilateral or Multilateral Respondent) Flexibility when circumstances 6.5 “I think it’s important to engage the private sector more and change in Maldives^ encourage effective PPP engagement.” 6.0 (Private Sector Respondent) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in terms of the following? *Significant difference between years Q Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree ^Compared to the mean of institutional flexibility and flexibility to changes in the country context asked in FY21. 20 The WBG Seen as Effectively Collaborating with the National Government and Other Donors and Partners In FY24, respondents perceived the WBG as most effective at 7.8 National government collaborating with the national government, followed by 7.4 other donors and development partners. Although somewhat improved, the WBG’s collaboration with the private Other donors and 6.9 sector was rated the lowest. development partners 6.2 6.6 Local government In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Maldives? 6.3 “Foster more engagement and work with the private sector.” Academia / research centers FY24 (Government Institution Respondent) FY21 “Keep working closely with the government in the hope that Civil society (e.g., NGOs, 6.0 they will implement WBG recommendations. Increase efforts CBOs) 5.4 to engage the private sector with the aim of reducing reliance on SOEs.” Parliament / legislative 6.0 (Bilateral or Multilateral Respondent) branch “Include local consultants in the research conducted by the World Bank.” 5.9 (Government Principal Respondent) Private sector 5.2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Maldives, in terms of collaborating with the following Q groups? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree 21 Stakeholders Want the Bank to Collaborate More with the Private Sector More than half of respondents in this year’s survey indicated Private sector 57% that the WBG should collaborate more with the private sector in addition to its partnership with the national government. Respondents also wanted to see the WBG collaborate more with civil society and local government. Civil society (e.g., 40% NGOs, CBOs) Outreach to the broader civil society organizations is also recommended, as respondents from these stakeholder groups reported relatively lower familiarity with the Bank and some of the more critical views. Local government 37% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness Other donors and 27% in Maldives? development partners “More collaboration within the existing donors and development partners, especially on managing effective technical assistance programs and projects capacity Academia / research 23% building and research work. This could also involve project centers designing, monitoring, and evaluation.” (Bilateral or Multilateral Agency Respondent) Parliament / legislative 11% branch Q In addition to its partnership with the National government, which of the following should the WBG collaborate with more to have greater impact in Maldives? (Select up to 2) (Percentage of Respondents, N=115) 22 23 World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work “First would be providing tailored financing instruments to civil society actors that align with WB's objectives. … This includes funding the data products such as imagery, platforms, and tools required to build the solutions. … Lastly, WB can help scale the work by helping identify and support access to larger project financing through funds such as GCF or other funds that align better with CSO while acting as a fund manager or enabler. This is not limited to grants or funds either. It could be through guidance and capacity building on how to create spinoffs and help build a proper business around a solution." (Civil Society Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Maldives? (N=74) Respondents Identify Financial Resources, Technical Assistance, and Implementation Support as the Bank's Most Valuable Activities in the Maldives Financial resources 66% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Maldives? Technical assistance and “In addition to WBG's focus on providing financial assistance 37% implementation support in setting up various developmental projects, the Maldives require a certain percentage of operational assistance in terms of finance in order to ensure the long-term sustainability of such projects.” Knowledge and analytical products 30% (Government Institution Respondent) “Towards mitigating climate impacts provide additional resources including the provision of loans with the low Capacity development and training 21% interest rate to install solar projects to the private sector.” (Media Respondent) “Invest in national statistics development and improving data Development partner / donor needs to help improve data gaps for reporting on SDGs as 18% coordination well as nationally prioritized statistics and indicators.” (Government Institution Respondent) Convening / bringing together 14% different groups of stakeholders Mobilizing third party financial 8% resources Which WBG activities do you VALUE the most in Maldives? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=125) 24 WBG Seen as Effectively Monitoring and Evaluating Its Projects in Maldives Respondents generally hold positive views of the WBG’s financial instruments, with particular appreciation for the WBG’s The WBG effectively monitors 7.1 and evaluates the projects it effective monitoring and evaluation of its projects. There was supports in Maldives 6.3 broad agreement that the WBG insists on accountability through its lending and that its Environmental and Social The WBG insists on 7.0 Framework (ESF) requirements are reasonable. accountability through its lending ▪ Respondents from the private sector were least likely to agree that WBG’s financing is competitive compared to The WBG’s Environmental and 7.0 markets (mean = 5.7), while respondents from government Social Framework requirements are reasonable 6.5 institutions reported the highest ratings (mean = 7.0). FY24 The WBG provides financial 6.7 FY21 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Maldives? support in a timely manner^ 6.9 “Increase the amount of grants and ensure a robust monitoring mechanism to check if the resources are used for the purpose The conditions of the WBG’s 6.6 provided. Create a mechanism to avoid misuse of any funds financing are competitive given to the public sector. World Bank directly provides financial compared to markets resources to the councils, and adequate training is provided to implement those projects at the council level.“ The WBG’s financial 6.3 (Local Government Respondent) instruments meet the needs of Maldives 6.1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 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" in FY21 25 54% of Respondents Have Used the WBG’s Knowledge Work, and They Recognize its Value in Bringing Global Expertise to the Maldives The WBG brings global expertise to 7.8 Maldives as part of its knowledge work 7.4 Working with the WBG increases Maldives’ 7.5 institutional capacity 7.3 Significance of contribution WBG’s 7.4 knowledge work makes to development No Have you ever results in Maldives 7.3 46% used the WBG’s FY24 knowledge Yes work? 54% I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s 7.3 FY21 knowledge work in Maldives The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to 7.1 Maldives’ context 6.4 When I need to consult the WBG’s 6.7 knowledge work, I know how to find it 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=115) Q To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 26 27 The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Maldives “Talk with development partners in the country and use a more collective approach to deliver the work in the Maldives. The current approach is relatively compartmentalized, and common messages which are highly relevant to the development of the Maldives are best delivered in partnership with other donors and development partners.” (Bilateral or Multilateral Agency Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Maldives? (N=74) How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses Enhance collaboration with existing partners, civil society, and the private sector, leveraging local experts, focusing on sustainable development, and improving WBG’s flexibility and visibility Engagement • Engage more with civil society and the private sector 25% • Work more closely with existing donors and development partners Engagement Financial • Involve local expertise and develop a local Support consultancy network Financial Support • Increased grants and resources, with a particular focus on environmental enforcement 16% • Tailored financial instruments and facilitating better access. Communic ation Focus Area • Assist in debt restructuring and offer flexible solutions to address the financial crisis • Private, flexible procurement system Results • Sustainable development, particularly focus on climate Knowledge Operational Focus Area 16% change resilience Effectiveness • Transportation Infrastructure development • Public sector governance and public-private partnership • Economic diversification: tourism, fisheries, digital transformation, etc. In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Q could do to increase its effectiveness in Maldives? (N=74) 28 How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses Enhance collaboration with existing partners, civil society, and the private sector, leveraging local experts, focusing on sustainable development, and improving WBG’s flexibility and visibility Operational • Adapt WBG products, services, and strategies to Effectiveness the country’s priorities and needs • Be more flexible and transparent 16% Engagement Financial Support Knowledge • More training/capacity building, strengthening institutional framework in technical areas 14% • Long-term operation assistance for the sustainability of projects • Invest in national statistics development and provide better data Communication Focus Area • Enhanced monitoring of resource usage, with an Results Results emphasis on transparency 7% • Better performance monitoring Operational Knowledge Effectiveness • Greater visibility of the project’s impacts and improving Communication awareness of WBG’s work 7% • Share information with partners and create more engagement opportunities with the audiences In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Q could do to increase its effectiveness in Maldives? (N=74) 29 30 Communication and Outreach “Increase the visibility of the World Bank country office in Maldives and ensure the information on its activities is up-to-date and easily accessible. Strengthen institutional framework in technical areas such as data management, monitoring, evaluation, and impact assessment to provide training for enhancing project development and implementation.” (Government Institution Respondent) “Share information, convene donors, encourage joint messaging across the MDB and donor community.” (Bilateral or Multilateral Agency Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Maldives? (N=74) Direct Contact with Staff and Events were the Most Preferred Ways for Receiving WBG Communication Respondents most preferred receiving WBG communications through direct contact with staff or by attending events, conferences, seminars, and workshops (in person or online). However, preferences varied significantly between stakeholder groups: most respondents from bilateral/multilateral agencies favored direct contact with staff, while about two-thirds of government respondents preferred events. Notably, civil society respondents preferred direct messaging. Preferred WBG Channel All Government Bilateral/Multilateral Respondents Institutions Agencies Broader Civil Society Private Sector Direct contact with staff (e.g., in person, 49.6% 45.5% 91.7% 52.2% 37.5% virtually, phone, email)* Event / conference / seminar / workshop (in 47.8% 63.6% 33.3% 21.7% 43.8% person or online)* Direct messaging (e.g., WhatsApp, 31.9% 18.2% 25.0% 60.9% 31.3% Telegram, Viber)* Social media (e.g., Facebook, X (previously 31.0% 27.3% 8.3% 34.8% 43.8% Twitter)) e-Newsletters 25.7% 30.9% 16.7% 17.4% 31.3% Other* 0.9% 0.0% 8.3% 0.0% 0.0% How would you prefer to receive communication from the WBG? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=113) *Significant difference between stakeholder groups 31 Two-thirds of Respondents Recalled Information about the WBG Recently, Most Often through Direct Contact and Social Media Direct contact with WBG staff (e.g., in 58% person, virtually, phone, email) Social media 57% Event / conference / seminar (in person 53% or online) Newspapers (print or online) 35% No 35% Do you recall WBG websites 30% seeing or hearing anything about Television (TV) 22% the WBG Direct messaging (e.g., WhatsApp, 22% recently? Telegram, Viber) Yes 65% e-Newsletters 4% Other 4% Radio 3% Blogs 3% Podcasts 1% Do you recall seeing or hearing anything about the WBG recently? (N=114) Q Where do you recall seeing or hearing this information? (Select all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=74) 32 WBG’s Work on Climate Change was the Most Commonly Recalled Topic Respondents most frequently recalled WBG’s work or research on climate change. About half of respondents also recalled WBG economic forecasts. Climate change 59% WBG economic forecasts 49% Debt relief for developing countries 34% Digital economy 32% Changes to the WBG financial and operational model 30% Human capital (education, health) 26% Women empowerment 25% Youth development 23% Ending poverty in developing countries 22% Job creation / employment 21% Food security 14% Pandemic preparedness 10% Other 8% If you answered “Yes” for E3, what topics were included in what you saw or heard about WBG’s work or research? 33 Q (Select all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=73) Climate Change Communications can be More Impactful when Related to Coral Bleaching, Increased Erosion of Shoreline The majority of respondents expressed deep concern about coral bleaching regarding the potential impacts of climate change in Maldives. Additionally, more than 8 in 10 respondents expressed that they are vey concerned about increased erosion of shoreline, extreme weather events, and coastal flooding. These critical issues should be prioritized in communications to ensure that messaging about climate change resonates effectively. Very concerned Somewhat concerned A little concerned Not concerned at all Coral bleaching 90% Increased erosion of shoreline 84% Extreme weather events (more frequent and severe floods / droughts / heatwaves) 83% Coastal flooding due to sea level rise 81% Decreased crop yields / increased food insecurity 72% Extinction of marine resources 68% Decreased water availability / quality 66% Health risks (waterborne diseases due to access rain) 63% Air pollution 63% Climate-driven migration 62% Ocean acidification 61% Loss of jobs 60% Land and forest degradation 56% How concerned are you about the following potential impacts of climate change in Maldives? Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=~112) 34 35 Sample Demographics and Detailed Methodology Sample Demographics What is the primary specialization Do you of your work? (N=114) collaborate/work Public sector governance 16% with the World Bank Group (WBG) Other No 13% in Maldives? 44% Environment / natural resource (N=128) Yes 11% management 56% Private sector development / trade 10% Generalist (specialize in multiple 8% sectors) Macroeconomics, fiscal / debt 7% management Climate change 7% Education 5% Digital development 5% World Bank (IDA) Which of the 94% Urban development 4% following WBG International Finance Agriculture and food security 4% agencies do you Corporation (IFC) 36% Legal / human rights 4% collaborate/work with in Maldives? Multilateral Investment Social protection 2% 15% (N=72) Guarantee Agency (MIGA) Water / sanitation 2% International Centre for Settlement of Investment 11% Energy 2% Disputes (ICSID) Gender equity 1% Percentages equal more than 100% because respondents could choose Transport 1% multiple agencies within the WBG. 36 Sample Demographics (continued) What is your gender? (N=114) What’s your age? (N=114) 26-35 25% Female 32% 36-45 25% 46-55 22% Male 51% Prefer not to specify 19% Prefer not to 56 and above 7% specify, 18% 25 or younger 2% 37 Detailed Methodology Percentage of Respondents FY 2021 FY 2024 From April to July 2024, a total of 355 stakeholders in Maldives were invited to provide Government Principals: Office of the 1% 5% their opinions on the WBG’s work by participating in a Country Opinion Survey (COS). A list of President, Minister, Parliamentarian potential participants was compiled by the WBG country team and the field agency. Government Institutions: Employee of a Participants were drawn from the Offices of the President, Minister, and office of Ministry, Department, Project Implementation 44% 46% parliamentarians; government institutions; local governments; bilateral or multilateral Unit, Independent Government Institution, Judiciary, State-Owned Enterprise agencies; the private sector; civil society; academia; and the media. Local Government 9% 5% Of these stakeholders, 128 participated in the survey (36% response rate). Respondents completed the questionnaire via an online platform. Bilateral/Multilateral Agency: Embassy, Development Organization, Development 9% 10% This year’s survey results were compared to the FY21 Survey, which had a response Bank, UN Agency rate of 35% (N=86). Civil Society Organization: Local and Comparing responses across Country Surveys reflects changes in attitudes over time, as regional NGOs, Community-Based Organization, Private Foundation, 9% 16% well as differences in respondent samples, methodology, and survey instruments. To minimize Professional/Trade Association, the impact of these factors, only questions with consistent response scales and options were Faith-Based Group, Youth Group analyzed. This year’s survey achieved better outreach to and response from civil society Private Sector: Private Company, Financial organizations. Any differences in stakeholder composition between the two years should be Sector Organization, Private Bank 17% 14% considered when interpreting the results of the year-over-year comparison analyses. Key statistically significant findings (tested at the research standard of p < .05) are noted Academia / Research Center 7% 2% throughout the report. Media 1% 2% Breakdowns for individual questions by stakeholder group can be found in the “Maldives Other 1% 0% COS FY24 Appendices with data breakdowns.xlsx” file published in the WBG Microdata Library, along with the survey microdata and this report. Total Number of Respondents 86 128 What is your primary professional affiliation? (Select only 1 response) Q 38 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 Maldives? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much A2. How effective is the World Bank Group in helping Maldives 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 Maldives? 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 Maldives. A5. The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Maldives. A6. The WBG has a positive influence on shaping development policy in Maldives. A7. The WBG’s work helps end poverty in Maldives 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 Maldives C1_2. Access to WBG staff and experts C1_3. Flexibility when circumstances change in Maldives C1_5. Being a long-term partner to Maldives To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Maldives, 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_4. Private sector C2_5. Civil society C2_6. Other donors 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 Maldives. 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 Maldives. C6_4. The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to Maldives’ context. 39 Thank you For more information about this report or the Country Opinion Survey program, please contact: countrysurveys@worldbankgroup.org