FY 2024 El Salvador Country Opinion Survey Report ECR Business Intelligence Team | July 2024 Acknowledgements The El Salvador 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 El Salvador country team and independent fielding agency, AGA & Asociados. In particular, BI is grateful for the support from Cynthia Flores Mora (External Affairs Officer) who coordinated the survey-related activities from San Jose, Costa Rica. 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 El Salvador World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work The Future Role of the World Bank Group in El Salvador Communication and Outreach Sample Demographics 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 El Salvador perceive the WBG. The survey explored the following questions: 1. Overall Context: How familiar are stakeholders with the WBG? How much do they trust the WBG? 2. Key Indicators: What opinion do key stakeholders have of the WBG regarding its effectiveness, relevance, alignment with El Salvador’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 El Salvador? Are opinions improving or declining? 5. Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work: What do key stakeholders value the most regarding the WBG’s work in El Salvador? What opinion do key stakeholders have of WBG financial instruments and knowledge products? Are opinions improving or declining? What are stakeholders’ suggestions for improving WBG’s effectiveness? 6. Communication and Outreach: What are the preferred communication channels? Are there differences among stakeholder groups in terms of preferred channels? 7. Message Recall: What key topics that the WBG communicates do stakeholders recall? Is there a relationship between message recall and views of the WBG’s work? 4 Methodology Overview Civil Society Organization 21% ▪ Fielded January – April 2024 ▪ 384 potential participants were asked to complete a mostly Government Institution 19% quantitative survey ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online Bilateral or Multilateral Agency 15% ▪ List of names provided by the WBG country team and supplemented by the fielding agency ▪ Process managed on the ground by the fielding agency Private Sector 12% ▪ 201 participants (52% response rate) Media 10% ▪ 90% from Central Zone ▪ 26% currently collaborate with the WBG Academia / Research Centers 8% ▪ Compared to FY21 Country Survey Local Government Office or Staff 6% ▪ 165 participants (68% response rate) Office of the President, ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online or on paper Minister 5% ▪ 21% collaborated with the WBG Office of a Parliamentarian 3% (Legislative Assembly) 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=201) 5 6 Overall Context “To make its intervention in El Salvador more effective, the World Bank could design financing strategies that recognize and address the country's high debt burden. This could include implementing specific programs aimed at efficient debt management, restructuring liabilities with more favorable conditions, and promoting economic reforms that foster sustainable growth. In addition, the World Bank could work with other partners and not just public institutions to have more control over the use of resources.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in El Salvador?(N=148) Familiarity with the World Bank ▪ Comparison of FY21 and FY24: Respondents in this year’s Country Survey reported similar levels of familiarity with the All Respondents 6.9 World Bank as the respondents in the FY21 Survey: Mean familiarity: FY24 = 6.9 Government Institutions 7.9 FY21 = 6.9 Local Government 7.2 ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who indicated that they collaborate with the WBG reported significantly Media 7.0 higher levels of familiarity with the institution’s work: Mean familiarity: Collaborate with WBG = 8.2 Civil Society 6.5 Do not collaborate = 6.4 Bilateral/Multilateral Agency 6.4 ▪ Stakeholders: Respondents from government institutions indicated the highest levels of familiarity with the WBG, followed by respondents from local government, whereas Academia 6.3 respondents from the private sector and academia reported lower familiarity with the WBG’s work. Private Sector 6.1 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 El Salvador? 7 Q Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Very familiar Stakeholders Most Familiar with the UN and IDB ▪ Respondents in this year’s Country Survey were asked to 7.8 United Nations indicate their familiarity with the work of several international organizations and the World Bank Group. Of these organizations, respondents in El Salvador indicated the Inter-American Development 7.3 highest levels of familiarity with the work of the United Nations (UN), followed by the Inter-American Development Bank Bank (IDB/BID) 7.5 (IDB/BID). Respondents were least familiar with the Latin American Development Bank (CAF) work. 7.1 European Union 6.9 FY24 World Bank Group 6.9 FY21 Central American Bank for 6.6 Economic Integration (CABEI/BCIE)* 7.3 6.1 International Monetary Fund Latin American Development 5.4 Bank (CAF) 5.1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Familiarity Q How familiar are you with the work of these organizations in El Salvador? Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Very familiar 8 The WBG is the Most Trusted World Bank Group 8.1 7.9 Institution United Nations 7.8 7.7 Respondents in El Salvador rated the World Bank Group, 7.8 Academia / research centers United Nations, academia, and civil society as the most trustworthy institutions. 7.7 Civil society (e.g., NGOs, CBOs) 7.3 Despite significantly improved ratings compared to the FY21 Regional development banks 7.6 survey, the Legislative Assembly, El Salvador’s Central (e.g., CABEI, IDB) 7.3 Bank, the media, and the national government were among 7.5 the least trusted institutions studied. International Monetary Fund 7.4 ▪ Regarding trust in the WBG, respondents from Private sector* 7.1 FY24 6.6 government institutions had the highest ratings of trust FY21 in the WBG (mean = 9.0). In contrast, respondents from 6.8 Faith-based institutions academia, media, and civil society had significantly lower trust ratings (means = 7.0, 7.5, and 7.5, 6.8 respectively). Media* 6.1 6.8 National government* 5.7 6.8 El Salvador’s Central Bank* 6.2 6.4 Local government 6.0 Legislative Assembly* 4.8 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 El Salvador? 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 “I believe that given the national context, the WBG can have a greater influence in promoting public policies for human development, key issues for social and economic development, and transparency in the use of funds. [The WBG] should promote more knowledge management and the training of new officials. This is something that the WBG does well, but lately they have not been doing it systematically in the country, as well as sharing successful experiences from countries similar to El Salvador, as well as considering projects that favor regional integration.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in El Salvador? (N=148) Key Performance Indicators Remain Positive In FY24, respondents gave high ratings for the WBG’s 7.8 relevance to development in El Salvador and alignment Relevant role in development with their development priorities for the country. Slightly but 7.8 insignificantly improved the WBG’s positive influence on shaping development policy. Aligned with development 7.6 priorities 7.5 ▪ Respondents from academia gave the lowest mean ratings across all these indicators. Of note, respondents from academia were less familiar with the WBG work than other stakeholder groups. Effectiveness in helping El 7.5 Salvador achieve results^ FY24 7.6 FY21 Positive influence on shaping 7.5 development policy 7.4 7.0 Helps end poverty in El Salvador 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in El Salvador. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in El Salvador. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for El Salvador. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work helps end poverty in El Salvador. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree How effective is the WBG in helping El Salvador achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective ^Compared to a mean score of the two questions asked in FY21: "Overall, please rate your impression of the WBG’s effectivenes s in El Salvador. Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective; To what extent does the WBG’s work help to achieve development resu lts in El 11 Salvador? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree 9.0 Stakeholders from the 8.0 8.5 Trust the WBG to do what is Government Institutions right for El Salvador* 7.0 7.5 8.1 and Local Government 7.5 Government 8.8 Institutions Have More Positive Relevant role in 7.8 8.5 7.7 Local Perceptions of the WBG development* 6.2 7.0 Government 7.4 Bilateral/Multilate ral Agency Comparisons of ratings for key performance indicators 8.5 8.3 between stakeholder groups show that respondents 7.8 Civil Society Alignment with development from government institutions and local government priorities* 7.3 6.8 have the highest ratings for the WBG work across all 6.2 Private Sector KPIs. In contrast, respondents from academia, the 7.1 private sector, and the media had significantly lower 8.3 Academia ratings. 8.1 7.7 Effectiveness in helping El 7.3 Salvador achieve results* Media 7.2 5.9 7.1 8.5 8.1 Positive influence on 7.5 shaping 7.4 *Significant development policy* 6.4 difference between 6.4 stakeholder groups 6.7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Q For question wording and scales, please see the previous slide. Mean Rating 12 Familiarity Leads to More Positive Perceptions 8.8 Comparing ratings of key performance indicators among Trust the WBG to do what 7.6 respondents highly familiar with the WBG (ratings of 8- is right for El Salvador* 6.5 10 on a 10-point scale) and those with little familiarity with the WBG (ratings of 1-4 on a 10-point scale), one 8.5 can see that the more familiar stakeholders are with the Relevant role in development* 7.4 WBG, the more positive perceptions they have of the WBG and its work. 6.6 8.4 Meaningful engagement and outreach can continue Alignment with development 7.1 to increase positive perceptions. priorities* 6.0 8.2 Effectiveness in helping El Salvador 7.0 to achieve results 6.2 8.2 Positive influence on shaping 7.2 development policy* 5.7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating How familiar are you with the work of the WBG in El Salvador? High Familiarity (8-10) Some Familiarity (5-7) Low Familiarity (1-4) How much do you trust the WBG to do what is right for El Salvador? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much *Significant difference between Q The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in El Salvador. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree levels of familiarity The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in El Salvador. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for El Salvador. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree How effective is the WBG in helping El Salvador achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective 13 El Salvador’s Key Performance Indicators are Higher than those of Other IBRD Countries Surveyed in FY23 8.1 Trust the WBG to do what is right 7.4 7.8 Relevant role in development 7.1 El Salvador 7.6 FY24 Alignment with development priorities 7.2 Other IBRD FY23 Posititve influence on shaping 7.5 development policy 6.8 Effectiveness in helping to achieve 7.5 results 7.0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating FY23 IBRD countries included: Albania, Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Egypt, Jamaica, Malaysia, Mongolia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Q Romania, Serbia, South Africa, and Türkiye 14 Stakeholder Trends Across Performance Indicators Respondents from government institutions had the highest All Respondents 7.4 mean rating across the aggregated responses to the nineteen COS indicator questions, whereas respondents from academia had the lowest ratings. Government Institutions 8.2 Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who indicated that they collaborate with the WBG gave significantly higher Local Government 8.1 ratings across the aggregated indicator questions compared to respondents who did not collaborate with the WBG: Bilateral/Multilateral Agency 7.7 Mean rating: Collaborate with WBG = 8.1 Do not collaborate = 7.1 Civil Society 7.2 Media 7.0 Private Sector 6.7 Academia 6.0 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 on these Indicator Questions. 15 16 World Bank Group’s Support for Development Areas “Promote spaces for dialogue and evidence -based analysis to seek comprehensive solutions that address the structural causes of poverty and reach the most disadvantaged sectors of the country. Job creation is required for families in rural areas and sustainable food systems that preserve the environment.” (Civil Society Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in El Salvador? (N=148) Development Areas Education 59% for WBG Focus Jobs 48% In FY24, stakeholders wanted the WBG to focus its resources on Agriculture / food security 36% High for academia education, jobs, agriculture/food security, and water/sanitation. (69%) and media (52%) Water / sanitation 31% Jobs, agriculture/food security, water/sanitation, and climate change have elevated notably since FY21. Specifically, the water sector grew Climate change 26% as a priority, with 3.7% of respondents in FY21 and 31% of respondents recognizing its importance in FY24. Environment / natural resource management 25% Digital infrastructure development 24% High for private In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG sector (52%) could do to help increase its effectiveness in El Salvador? Social protection 24% High for “Improve transparency in government management and ensure bilateral/multilateral agency (43%) effective accountability. Create an enabling environment for Debt management 23% investment, as well as promote policies that foster sustainable Social inclusion 20% High for economic development. Develop policies that address food bilateral/multilateral insecurity.” (Government Institution Respondent) agency (40%) and Public sector governance 20% civil society (38%) “Understanding and aligning with the priorities of the country's public Transport infrastructure 19% agenda, having a technical and political agenda that is truly based on the will of the country. In education, too, not only focusing on quality, Gender equity 15% but on equity and inclusion. The recovery of learning is not everything, its strengthening is an even greater need today because Private sector development 15% when it is strengthened, student performance is accelerated. Likewise, having a systemic vision. Early childhood is a priority, but Health / pandemic preparedness 14% investment must also be made in education for young people and adults, without this, cycles of inequality, inequity and poverty are Energy 13% reproduced.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent) Urban development 13% Which areas should the WBG prioritize to have the most impact on development results in El 17 Q Salvador? (Select up to 5) (Percentage of Respondents, N=199) Effectiveness of WBG’s Support in Sectoral Areas The WBG’s work in public service infrastructure, transport, health, and Finance / Institutions / Economic Growth education received the highest effectiveness ratings. Of note, most of the indicators studied in both years have declined notably since FY21, especially for 6.9 Private sector development energy/extractives and social inclusion. 7.4 6.9 Trade Human Development 7.4 6.6 Macroeconomic stability 7.1 Health* 7.8 6.6 FY24 Public sector governance* 7.2 FY21 7.1 Education* 7.7 6.5 Job creation / employment 7.1 6.8 FY24 6.4 Gender equity* 7.5 Regional integration* 7.3 FY21 6.6 6.3 Social inclusion* Debt sustainability 7.8 Social protection* 6.2 Infrastructure 7.1 Public service infrastructure 7.2 Environmental Sustainability Transport 7.1 7.5 Environment / natural resource 6.7 management 7.3 Water supply and sanitation infrastructure 6.9 6.5 Digital development 6.9 Climate change* 7.4 FY24 FY24 FY21 Urban development 6.7 *Significant difference 7.1 FY21 6.2 Agriculture and food security 6.9 between years 6.5 Energy / extractives* 7.6 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Effectiveness Mean Rating of Effectiveness How effective has the WBG been at achieving development results in each of these areas in El Salvador? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective Q (If you have NO exposure to/experience in working in any of the sectors listed below, please respond “Don’t know”) 18 19 World Bank Group’s Engagement on the Ground in El Salvador “The WBG could generate projects that force intersectoral articulation and have comprehensive approaches to the country's social and economic problems. Generate spaces where academia, civil society, and the private sector contribute to the development of effective public policies and also promote spaces for the evaluation of public policies, where effectiveness and efficiency can be measured.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in El Salvador? (N=148) The WBG Seen as a Long-Term Partner In FY24, respondents perceived the WBG as a long-term partner with accessible staff and responsive to needs in El Salvador. Notably fewer respondents agree that WBG is Being a long-term partner to 7.9 open to sharing data and other information compared to El Salvador 8.2 the FY21. In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Access to WBG staff and 7.4 could do to increase its effectiveness in El Salvador? experts 7.0 “Work with more local actors and civil society. There is a lot of information that is disguised by state institutions. Also, better supervise the projects that are being executed with bank funds. Responsiveness to needs in 7.3 Some of them have been delayed or are used for things they were El Salvador FY24 not intended for, but the claim is not made public to the 7.7 government..” (Media Respondent) FY21 “The majority of the Salvadoran population lacks information about Openness (sharing data and 7.1 the intervention of financial institutions in the country […]There is no information on the existence of environmental, gender, disability, and other information)* 7.8 other safeguards, and if they exist, we do not know how to access them to question or denounce projects that in our opinion could be harmful to life. They should be made known to exercise social control Flexibility when circumstances 7.0 and have space to demand compliance with them. It is also to be expected that the benefits reach the low-income population. This is change in El Salvador^ 7.1 not happening, especially if we address the issue of women's access to basic services, land, housing, health, education, among others.” 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 (Civil Society Respondent) Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in terms of the following? Q Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree ^Compared to the mean of institutional flexibility 20 and flexibility to changes in the country context asked in FY21. *Significant difference between years The WBG Collaborates Effectively with National Government and Development Partners 7.9 In FY24, respondents believed that WBG effectively National government 8.1 collaborates with the national government and other development partners. Respondents believe WBG collaborates less effectively with faith-based institutions, the Other donors and 7.4 Legislative Assembly, and civil society. development partners 7.2 7.0 Private sector 7.3 . In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG 6.9 could do to increase its effectiveness in El Salvador? Academia / research centers “[The WBG ] should involve civil society more and better in the design, implementation, and evaluation of projects. [The WBG ] FY24 6.9 should improve the presentation of the information it publishes Local government FY21 regarding the implementation of projects because they are not usually user-friendly documents. [The WBG ] should facilitate more spaces for dialogue between interested parties and public Civil society (e.g., NGOs, 6.9 institutions implementing projects. .” (Civil Society Respondent) CBOs) 6.5 “Working in a coordinated manner with local governments. 6.3 Integrating more sectors, such as private companies and NGOs. Legislative Assembly Betting on support for urgent needs in El Salvador, unemployment, access to education and support for agriculture and food security“ .” (Office of Parliamentarian Respondent) Faith-based institutions 5.5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in El Salvador, 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 Civil Society, Academia, and Private Sector Respondents in this year’s survey indicated that, besides its partnership with the National government, the WBG should Civil society (e.g., NGOs, 50% collaborate more with civil society, academia, and the private CBOs) sector. Academia / research 35% centers In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in El Salvador? Private sector 34% “Although the Bank already has a mechanism to monitor the results and execution of disbursements in the country, it may be necessary to involve other actors in this process to better legitimize the Bank's Local government 30% actions in the country. Also, in the elaboration of the country strategy, consultation depends largely on the actors who are largely in tune with the development vision of the government and the bank, Other donors and 28% but to the extent possible, it would also be convenient to establish development partners communication channels that provide alternative development paths.” (Civil Society Respondent) Legislative Assembly 6% “Greater coordination with civil society organizations at the local level and contributing to the demand for accountability, transparency and the participation of diverse civil society in financing the central Other 4% government, to ensure that resources are used in those public spending priorities that are required for inclusive, democratic and sustainable development.” (Civil Society Respondent) Faith-based institutions 3% In addition to its partnership with the national government, which of the following Q should the WBG collaborate with more to have greater impact in El Salvador? (Select up to 2) (Percentage of Respondents, N=186) 22 23 World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work “In terms of knowledge, speed up publications to have more recent data that can be more useful. In terms of projects and financing, share progress or increase accountability to ensure that funds are well invested.” (Civil Society Respondent) “Focus part of the resources on training and capacity building in government institutions at a technical level. In addition, increase the support of resources for the productive sector of the country both at the level of the financial system and private sectors.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in El Salvador? (N=148) Financial Resources Considered the Bank’s Greatest Value Financial resources 60% Technical assistance and 42% implementation support In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in El Salvador? Knowledge and analytical products 28% Of more value to bilateral / “Ensure that funding and technical support is provided directly multilateral to organizations working in the communities that need help the agencies (57%) most and not through the government. Put more controls on the Mobilizing third party financial 21% use of the money they lend and demand accountability for the resources funds.” (Media Respondent) Capacity development and training 19% “1. Strengthen the technical staff in institutions where the World Bank has any of its various financial products. 2. Offer attractive financial solutions in the areas where the Convening / bringing together 13% country has prioritized its needs.” different groups of stakeholders (Government Institution Respondent) “Continue to contextualize its interventions, providing timely Donor coordination 8% technical assistance and sharing resources from the global knowledge management they carry out.” (Civil Society Respondent) Other 3% Which WBG instruments do you VALUE the most in El Salvador? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=200) 24 WBG Seen as Insisting on Accountability, with Reasonable ESF Requirements, and with its Financing Conditions Competitive to Market Regarding the WBG’s financial instruments, respondents The WBG insists on accountability 7.7 agreed that the WBG insists on accountability through its through its lending 7.6 lending, that the WBG’s Environmental and Social Framework requirements are reasonable, and that financing conditions are The WBG’s Environmental and 7.7 competitive to markets. Social Framework requirements ▪ Of note, academia and private sector respondents gave the are reasonable 7.8 lowest overall ratings across these indicators (overall means = 6.5 and 7.1, respectively). The conditions of the WBG’s 7.7 financing are competitive compared to markets FY24 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG The WBG effectively monitors and 7.6 could do to increase its effectiveness in El Salvador? evaluates the projects it supports in FY21 El Salvador 7.7 “Accountability, monitoring of programs and projects. Support NGOs that invest directly in education and research. Promote transparency in government and local governments.” The WBG provides financial 7.4 (Civil Society Respondent) support in a timely manner^ 7.2 “Strengthen opportunities for non-reimbursable financing or soft loans, as well as debt restructuring/debt relief for each sector of 7.3 The WBG’s financial instruments the State.” (Government Institution Respondent) meet the needs of El Salvador 7.4 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 39% of Respondents Have Used the WBG’s Knowledge Work; Those Who Did were Satisfied with the Quality The WBG brings global expertise to El 8.1 Salvador as part of its knowledge work 7.9 I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s 7.9 knowledge work in El Salvador 7.0 Yes 39% Have you ever used the WBG’s knowledge work, including 7.8 Working with the WBG increases El participating in Salvador’s institutional capacity workshops or training 7.9 No Have you ever programs? 61% used the WBG’s knowledge 7.4 work? The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to El Salvador’s context Yes 7.2 No When I need to consult the WBG’s 7.2 knowledge work, I know how to find it 6.7 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=185) Q To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 26 WBG Knowledge Work is Perceived as Bringing Global Expertise and Increasing Institutional Capacity Respondents had the highest levels of agreement that the WBG brings global expertise to El Salvador, and that 8.0 working with the WBG increases El Salvador’s The WBG brings global expertise to El Salvador as part of its knowledge work^ 8.3 institutional capacity (slightly improved), and that the WBG’s knowledge work contributes to development results in the country. 7.8 Working with the WBG increases El Salvador’s institutional capacity 7.5 Of note, fewer respondents agreed that they know how to find the WBG’s knowledge work, with respondents from civil society and academia showing the lowest levels of Significance of contribution to development 7.7 FY24 awareness. results in El Salvador FY21 7.8 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase 7.4 I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s its effectiveness in El Salvador? knowledge work in El Salvador “… I think it would be important to hold workshops for journalists in order to cover the work of the World Bank to the new generations. And also, to have closer communication.” The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to El 7.3 (Media Respondent) Salvador’s context 7.8 “Increase the communication of all its work through conventional and digital media. Make known more about the work carried out When I need to consult the WBG’s 6.9 in the country and the alliances with the different actors in the knowledge work, I know how to find it country. Greater presence and image in relevant events, whether its own or by invitation.” 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) Mean Rating To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q How significant a contribution do you believe the WBG’s knowledge work makes to development results in El Salvador? 27 Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant ^Compared to “Source of relevant information on global good practices" asked in FY21. 28 The Future Role of the World Bank Group in El Salvador “Submit to the public opinion the results of the projects financed with Bank funds, especially if it is debt acquired by the Salvadoran State. In addition, establish more rigorous requirements for the execution of public investment projects.” (Office of Parliamentarian Respondent) “Better control and audit of the funds being disbursed to El Salvador. Publish these reports periodically or disclose where they can be accessed, make known your work plan, whether annual, five-year, as the case may be. Work with more organizations and not just with the central government. In short, make the information more accessible to citizens.” (Media Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in El Salvador? (N=148) How can the WBG increase its effectiveness? Open Ended Responses Collaborate w/ local stakeholders, monitor and supervise projects, and greater dissemination of work. • Public sector governance, modernization, transparency and anti-corruption Engagement • Active collaboration with civil society, private sector Focus Area • Private sector development, public spending supervision academia 21%* • Education, including education coverage 19% • Inclusion of groups outside government in • Climate change adaptation consultations, project monitoring • Agricultural diversification Engagement, Focus 19% Area, 21% Knowledge • More capacity building and technical assistance 12% Results • Active supervision of project/policy • Rely more on local expertise implementation and M&E 18% • Communication of results Results, Communication • Engage with the media to Knowledge, 18% promote WBG’s results 12% 11% across audiences • Increasing the Bank’s • Direct engagement at the local level Communi Operational Operational visibility in El Salvador cation, Financial • Streamline procedures and reduced time 11% Support, Effectiveness, Effectiveness • Implementation support 14% Financial • Performance-based financial support 6% 14% • Results-based financing • Financial support on favorable and • Better understanding of the processes in Support competitive terms the country 6% • Broadening the scope of groups involved in • Adapt projects to the El Salvador needs the financial support In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to increase its effectiveness in El Salvador? (N=148) Q *All percentages are counted based on the total number of topics mentioned by the respondents; individual comments could be counted multiple times depending on the number of topics they cover. 29 How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses Engage with more non-government stakeholders, build capacity, and better align with El Salvador’s needs, context, and capacity. Focus Area Engagement “1. Promote accountability and transparency in the use of public funds 2. Promote the “More relations with civil society and think tanks on strategic and country issues. For organization of public finances based on social development objectives and the reduction of example, some consultation mechanism, like the CONSOC that the IDB had. This would inequalities.” (Civil Society Respondent) allow the programs to be evaluated from a bottom-up perspective. At the moment, loans and projects are perceived from a vertical perspective, from top to bottom, which would allow a “Focus on reducing the digital divide by working directly with educational institutions and systemic approach. This means that opportunities are lost for innovation that can come from private foundations. -Focus on increasing educational coverage. -Focus on providing the below, especially in social issues, such as education and health.” government with technical assistance to find permanent and sustainable solutions to the (Civil Society Respondent) public transportation problem.” (Private Sector Respondent) “Coordination with the United Nations and all the programmatic areas that are developed “I consider that currently, due to the changes in the municipal composition, it is important to within each organization. I understand the prioritization, but in health issues there are several collaborate with the municipalities to improve financial and service management.” agencies, funds and programs that contribute, such as PAHO, UNICEF, UNFPA, and (Local Government Respondent) sometimes only one of these is considered. It would be more robust to have the experience and work of all of them.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) Knowledge Results “The WB could articulate the MAP with the United Nations Development Framework to coordinate development efforts in the country. Specifically, the WB could leverage the “Greater coordination with civil society organizations at the local level and contributing to the knowledge and territorial presence of some of the UN agencies, which would serve to demand for accountability, transparency and the participation of diverse civil society in objectively and with a focus on protection, including the most vulnerable populations in the financing the central government, to ensure that resources are used in those public spending country. The lack of external financing for a broad social policy generates the need to better priorities that are required for inclusive, democratic and sustainable development.” coordinate humanitarian aid with development efforts.” (Civil Society Respondent) (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) “Channeling funds to local governments or project executing agencies to achieve greater “Strengthen the capacities and knowledge of civil society organizations on issues of impact. Improving accountability in the country, demanding greater transparency and use of sustainability, environmental care, search for social investment and good practices applicable public resources.” (Academia Respondent) to the Salvadoran context.” (Civil Society Respondent) In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Q could do to increase its effectiveness in El Salvador?(N=148) 30 How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses Engage with more non-government stakeholders, build capacity, and better align with El Salvador’s needs, context, and capacity. Operation Effectiveness Results “Know more and better the reality of the country in terms of education, to be more flexible in “Greater coordination with civil society organizations at the local level and contributing to the way of conceiving the requirements and terms of the loans, in addition to hiring local, non- the demand for accountability, transparency and the participation of diverse civil society in foreign consultants. Require the holders to faithfully comply and commit to the execution of financing the central government, to ensure that resources are used in those public funds.” (Office of the President, Minister Respondent) spending priorities that are required for inclusive, democratic and sustainable development.” (Civil Society Respondent) “*Streamline the processes in the negotiation and disbursement of loans. *Streamline the purchasing and bidding processes, for the proper execution of loans. *Improve the validation “Channeling funds to local governments or project executing agencies to achieve greater and approval processes of products. *Expand the eligibility of the use of the bank's funds for impact. Improving accountability in the country, demanding greater transparency and use of the needs and priorities of the institution. *Optimize the use of the Bank's online systems for public resources.” (Academia Respondent) the approval of processes. *Avoid high turnover of project managers and timely notification of changes.” (Government Institution Respondent) “WBG might consider trying innovative approaches to trigger El Salvador's enabling environment for prosperity. For example, robust, systemic and all hands-hearts-minds Communication interventions, even in limited locations for proof of concept, as a pilot to scale. As important as it may be to address internal stakeholders and dynamics, outsiders are key to breaking “Strengthen the management and communication of programs, projects, and initiatives.” away from the country's stagnation (organizing the diaspora, setting up special investment (Government Institution Respondent) zones based on next level product space, promote Central America infrastructure as a development system).” “Talk with the central government and make the country's economic information (Academia Respondent) transparent.” (Media Respondent) In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Q could do to increase its effectiveness in El Salvador?(N=148) 31 32 Communication and Outreach “Approaching the private sector in the region to explore the possibility of forming alliances to develop projects that benefit underserved populations in areas affected by private sector investments. More strategic communications work, so that different stakeholders are aware of the work of the WBG, more visibility, specific communications actions with different audiences.” (Private Sector Respondent) “Disclosure of achievements and/or accountability in national media.” (Civil Society Respondent) “Provide better follow-up, comply with the execution of the projects and provide more information to those involved on the progress of the efforts.” (Local Government Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in El Salvador? (N=148) Direct Contact and Events were the Most Preferred for Receiving WBG Communication Respondents most preferred to receive the Bank communications through direct contact and events/conferences/seminars/workshops (in person or online), followed by e-newsletters. Preferred WBG Channel All Government Bilateral/Multilatera Respondents Institutions Local Government l Agency Civil Society Private Sector Academia Direct contact with staff (e.g., in person, 56.3% 66.7% 54.5% 54.2% 67.5% 45.0% 50.0% virtually, phone, email) Event / conference / seminar / workshop 55.7% 71.1% 36.4% 54.2% 60.0% 35.0% 50.0% (in person or online) e-Newsletters 36.1% 26.7% 27.3% 37.5% 30.0% 50.0% 43.8% Social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter) 20.2% 20.0% 36.4% 25.0% 15.0% 15.0% 6.3% Direct messaging (e.g., WhatsApp, 15.3% 11.1% 36.4% 12.5% 20.0% 10.0% 18.8% Telegram, Viber) How would you prefer to receive communication from the WBG? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=183) 33 6 in 10 Engaged with the WBG Recently, Most Often Through Social Media and Direct Contact 64% of respondents recalled hearing or seeing something about the WBG recently. Respondents most often reported seeing/hearing about the WBG through social media, direct contact with WBG staff, and the WBG websites. Social media 41% Direct contact with WBG staff 36% WBG websites 34% Event / conference / seminar (in No 27% person or online) 36% Do you recall Newspapers (print or online) 24% seeing or hearing anything about e-Newsletters 20% the WBG recently? Yes Television (TV) 9% 64% Direct messaging (e.g., WhatsApp, 9% Telegram, Viber) Blogs 6% Podcasts 5% Other 4% Radio 3% Do you recall seeing or hearing anything about the WBG recently? (N=183) Q Where do you recall seeing or hearing this information? (Select all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=116) 34 WBG Work on Ending Poverty and Human Capital were the Most Commonly Recalled Topics Respondents most frequently recalled WBG work or research Ending poverty in developing 39% on ending poverty in developing countries and human countries education, followed by WBG economic podcasts and Human capital (education, health) 35% climate change. WBG economic forecasts 28% ▪ Respondents from the media and private sector were the Climate change 27% most likely to recall WBG economic forecasts (78% and 60%, respectively). Women empowerment 24% Job creation / employment 20% Food security 19% Youth development 19% Other 16% Digital economy 14% Pandemic preparedness 13% Debt relief for developing countries 10% Changes to the WBG financial and 10% operational model If you answered “Yes” for E2, what topics were included in what you saw or heard about WBG’s work or research? 35 Q (Select all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=116) Climate Change Communications can be More Impactful when Related to Stakeholders’ Top Concerns: Food Security and Water Availability Nearly all respondents were very concerned about the decreased water availability/quality and decreased crop yields/ increased food insecurity regarding the potential impacts of climate change in El Salvador. More frequent and severe droughts and heatwaves were also of great concern to respondents. These key areas of concern should be considered to make communications about climate change more impactful. Very concerned Somewhat concerned A little concerned Not concerned at all Decreased crop yields / increased food insecurity 86% Decreased water availability / quality 86% More frequent and severe droughts 79% More frequent and severe heatwaves 75% Land and forest degradation 71% Loss of jobs 71% More frequent and severe floods 66% Extinction of plant / animal species 62% Air pollution 60% Coastal flooding due to sea level rise 53% More frequent and intense wildfires 50% Increased erosion of shoreline 50% Climate-driven migration 46% Q How concerned are you about the following potential impacts of climate change in El Salvador? (Percentage of Respondents, N=~168) 36 37 Sample Demographics and Detailed Methodology Sample Demographics What is the primary specialization Do you of your work? (N=181) collaborate/work Yes Other 20% with the World Bank 26% Education 17% Group (WBG) in El Salvador? Generalist (specialize in multiple (N=201) 12% sectors) Public sector governance 11% No Macroeconomics, fiscal / debt 74% 6% management Private sector development / trade 6% Gender equity 5% Agriculture and food security 5% Which of the Social protection 4% following WBG World Bank (IBRD) 94% agencies do you Legal / human rights 3% collaborate/work with in El Salvador? International Finance Urban development 3% 17% Corporation (IFC) (N=53) Health / pandemic preparedness 2% Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency 4% Energy 2% (MIGA) International Centre for Digital development 2% Settlement of Investment 2% Disputes (ICSID) Water / sanitation 1% Environment / natural resource 1% management 38 Sample Demographics(continued) What’s your age? (N=181) 25 or younger 1% What is your gender? (N=180) 26-35 10% 36-45 31% Prefer not to specify, 4% Other, 1% 46-55 24% 56 and above 31% Prefer not to specify 2% Female 41% Which best represents your geographic location? (N=178) Male 54% Central Zone 90% East 4% North Zone 3% West 2% South Zone 1% 39 Detailed Methodology Percentage of Respondents FY 2021 FY 2024 From January to April 2024, a total of 384 stakeholders in El Salvador were invited to Government Principals: Office of the President, Prime Minister, Minister, 12% 8% provide their opinions on the WBG’s work by participating in a Country Opinion Survey (COS). Parliamentarian A list of potential participants was compiled by the WBG country team and the fielding agency. Participants were drawn from the Offices of the President, Prime Minister, Minister, and Government Institutions: Employee of a Ministry, Department, Project Implementation Parliament, government institutions, local governments, bilateral or multilateral agencies, the Unit, Independent Government Institution, 25% 19% private sector, civil society, academia, and the media. Judiciary, State-Owned Enterprise Of these stakeholders, 201 participated in the survey (52% response rate). Respondents Local Government 6% 7% completed the questionnaire via an online platform. Bilateral/Multilateral Agency: Embassy, This year’s survey results were compared to the FY21 Survey, which had a response Development Organization, Development 10% 15% rate of 68% (N=165). Bank, UN Agency Comparing responses across Country Surveys reflects changes in attitudes over time, but Civil Society Organization: Local and also changes in respondent samples, changes in methodology, and changes to the survey regional NGOs, Community-Based Organization, Private Foundation, 12% 21% instrument itself. To reduce the influence of the latter factor, only those questions with similar Professional/Trade Association, response scales/options were analyzed. This year’s survey saw a much better distribution of Faith-Based Group, Youth Group respondents across stakeholder groups with greater outreach to and/or response from local governments and academia but a decrease from government institutions. These differences in Private Sector: Private Company, Financial 14% 12% Sector Organization, Private Bank stakeholder composition between the two years should be considered when interpreting the results of the past-year comparison analyses. Academia / Research Center 12% 8% Key statistically significant findings (tested at the research standard of p < .05) are noted throughout the report. Media 8% 10% Breakdowns for individual questions by stakeholder group can be found in the “El Salvador Other 1% 1% 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 164 201 Q What is your primary professional affiliation? (Select only 1 response) N= 201 40 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 El Salvador? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much A2. How effective is the World Bank Group in helping El Salvador 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 El Salvador? 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 El Salvador. A5. The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for El Salvador. A6. The WBG has a positive influence on shaping development policy in El Salvador. A7. The WBG’s work helps end poverty in El Salvador 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 El Salvador C1_2. Access to WBG staff and experts C1_3. Flexibility when circumstances change in El Salvador C1_5. Being a long-term partner to El Salvador To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in El Salvador, 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 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 El Salvador 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 El Salvador. C6_4. The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to El Salvador’s context. 41 Thank you For more information about this report or the Country Opinion Survey program, please contact: countrysurveys@worldbankgroup.org