FY 2024 Costa Rica Country Opinion Survey Report ECR Business Intelligence Team | August 2024 Acknowledgements The Costa Rica 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 Costa Rica country team and independent field agency, Instituto Ciudadano. In particular, BI is grateful for the support from Cynthia Flores Mora (External Affairs Officer), who coordinated the survey-related activities in 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 Costa Rica World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Costa Rica 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 Costa Rica 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 Costa Rica’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 Costa Rica? Are opinions improving or declining? 5. Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work: What do key stakeholders value the most regarding the WBG’s work in Costa Rica? What opinion do key stakeholders have of WBG financial instruments and knowledge products? Are opinions improving or declining? What are stakeholders’ suggestions for improving WBG’s effectiveness? 6. Communication and Outreach: What are the preferred communication channels? Are there differences among stakeholder groups in terms of preferred channels? 7. Message Recall: What key topics that the WBG communicates do stakeholders recall? Is there a relationship between message recall and views of the WBG’s work? 4 Methodology Overview Government Institution 22% ▪ Fielded February – May 2024 ▪ 647 potential participants were asked to complete a mostly Private Sector 17% quantitative survey ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online Civil Society Organization 13% ▪ List of names provided by the WBG country team and supplemented by the fielding agency ▪ Process managed on the ground by the fielding agency Academia / Research Centers 12% ▪ 225 participants (35% response rate) Office of a Parliamentarian (Legislative Assembly) 9% ▪ 9% currently collaborate with the WBG ▪ 26% aged 46-55 Bilateral or Multilateral Agency 8% ▪ Compared to FY21 Country Survey Local Government Office or Staff 8% ▪ 242 participants (18% response rate) ▪ 8% collaborated with the WBG Media 7% ▪ 25% aged 46-55 Office of the President, Vice- 5% President, Minister 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=225) 5 6 Overall Context “Greater dissemination and accessibility to studies and reports, promoting training programs, greater rapprochement with the academy. In the case of dissemination of training activities, it seems to me that they do not reach Costa Rica in time…” (Academia Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Costa Rica? (N=145) Increased Familiarity with the World Bank ▪ Comparison of FY21 and FY24: Respondents in this year’s All Respondents 6.5 Country Survey reported significantly higher levels of familiarity with the World Bank compared to respondents in Office of a Parliamentarian 8.2 the FY21 Survey: Mean familiarity: FY24 = 6.5 Media 8.1 FY21 = 5.7 Office of the President/ 7.3 PM/Minister ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who indicated Bilateral/Multilateral Agency 7.1 that they collaborate with the WBG reported significantly higher levels of familiarity with the institution’s work: Civil Society 6.6 Mean familiarity: Collaborate with WBG = 8.8 Local Government 6.5 Do not collaborate = 6.3 Academia 6.3 ▪ Stakeholders: Respondents from the office of a parliamentarian and the media indicated the highest levels of Government Institutions 6.1 familiarity with the WBG, whereas respondents from the private sector had significantly lower familiarity ratings. Private Sector 5.0 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 Costa Rica? 7 Q Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Very familiar Significant difference between stakeholder groups Stakeholders Most Familiar with the UN and IDB ▪ Respondents in this year’s Country Survey were asked to United Nations 7.4 indicate their familiarity with the work of several international organizations in addition to the World Bank Group. Of these organizations, respondents in Costa Rica indicated the Inter-American Development 7.1 highest levels of familiarity with the work of the United Bank (IDB/BID) Nations, followed by the Inter-American Development Bank. Respondents were least familiar with the work of the World European Union 6.8 Bank Group and Latin American Development Bank (CAF). ▪ Comparison of FY21 and FY24: It should be noted that Central American Bank for respondents in this year’s Country Survey reported Economic Integration 6.8 statistically similar levels of familiarity with the Inter-American (CABEI/BCiE) Development Bank, the Latin America Development Bank, and the Central American Bank for Economic Integration International Monetary Fund 6.6 compared to respondents in FY21. World Bank Group 6.5 Latin American Development 5.2 Bank (CAF) 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 Costa Rica? Q Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Very familiar 8 Respondents Trust More Academia / research centers 7.7 Academia, Civil Society, and Civil society (e.g., NGOs, CBOs) * 7.5 6.7 the UN United Nations* 7.4 6.9 Respondents gave the highest trust ratings for academia, Bilateral organizations (e.g., JICA, 7.1 followed by civil society and the UN (both significantly GIZ, USAID) 6.8 improved since FY21). The WBG experienced slightly lower, Regional development banks 7.1 though not significantly lower, levels of trust, primarily (e.g., CABEI, IDB) 6.8 influenced by respondents from civil society and the private sector. 6.9 Private sector * 6.3 Despite notably improving trust ratings for the media and 6.8 Central Bank of Costa Rica FY24 national government since FY21, these institutions received 6.8 FY21 the lowest ratings this year. 6.8 World Bank Group 7.1 6.7 Local government 6.6 Legislative Assembly* 4.7 6.6 International Monetary Fund 6.5 6.4 Media* 5.3 6.1 National government* 5.3 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 Costa Rica? 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 “1. Better communication of the WB's actions for a better assessment of its contributions. 2. Ensure effective results-based management in the implemented projects and communicate progress and challenges. 3. Link much more closely with sectoral civil networks to respond to their technical and financial needs. 4. Focus efforts on rural areas.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Costa Rica? (N=145) Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Consistent with FY21 In FY24, respondents rated the WBG slightly higher Relevant role 7.0 regarding its relevance in Costa Rica, effectiveness in in development 6.9 achieving development results, and alignment with the country's development priorities than the FY21 Survey. However, this increase was not statistically significant. 7.0 Effectiveness in helping Costa Rica achieve results 6.7 Aligned with development 6.8 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the priorities FY24 WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Costa 6.5 FY21 Rica? “Adapting culturally and understanding the needs of the 6.8 Positive influence on shaping local market. This involves not only understanding cultural development policy^^ 6.9 and social differences but also adapting your products, services, and business strategies to meet the specific demands of Costa Rican consumers.” (Office of a Parliamentarian Respondent) 5.9 Helps end poverty in Costa Rica 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Costa Rica. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in Costa Rica. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Costa Rica. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work helps end poverty in Costa Rica. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree How effective is the WBG in helping Costa Rica 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 Costa Rica. Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective; To what extent does the WBG’s work help to achieve development results in Costa Rica? Scale: 1 To no degre e 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 Costa Rica?* (1-To no degree at all, 10-To a very significant degree)". Local Government 7.0 7.1 7.6 Stakeholders Trust the WBG to do what is right for Costa Rica 6.2 7.7 7.5 More Positive 6.2 6.5 6.6 about WBG 6.9 7.0 7.3 Effectiveness in helping Costa 8.1 7.0 Comparisons of ratings for key Rica achieve results 6.6 performance indicators among 6.4 Office of the President/ 7.1 PM/Minister stakeholder groups reveal that 6.6 Office of a respondents from local government, 7.2 Parliamentarian 7.4 Government government institutions, and the Office of 7.6 Institutions the President/Prime Minister tend to 7.4 Local Government Relevant role in development 7.1 provide the highest ratings for the WBG 6.7 6.2 Bilateral/Multilateral across these KPIs. In contrast, 6.7 Agency 6.7 Civil Society respondents from the private sector, 7.3 media, and civil society generally gave 7.1 Private Sector lower ratings. However, these differences 7.3 7.5 Academia Alignment with development between stakeholder groups were not priorities 7.2 6.4 Media statistically significant. 6.1 6.4 6.3 The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Costa Q Rica. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 7.2 7.2 The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy 7.4 in Costa Rica. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 7.7 Positive influence on shaping The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development 6.9 priorities for Costa Rica. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly development policy 6.2 agree 6.1 How effective is the WBG in helping Costa Rica achieve development 6.0 6.1 results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective How much do you trust the WBG to do what is right for Costa Rica? 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much Mean Rating 12 Familiarity Leads to More Positive Perceptions 8.0 Comparing ratings of key performance indicators among Trust the WBG to do what 6.4 respondents highly familiar with the WBG (ratings of 8- is right for Costa Rica* 5.0 10 on a 10-point scale) and those with little familiarity with the WBG (ratings of 1-4 on a 10-point scale), one 7.8 can see that the more familiar stakeholders are with the Alignment with development 6.7 priorities* WBG, the more positive perceptions they have of the 5.5 WBG and its work. 7.7 Effectiveness in helping Costa Rica 6.7 Meaningful engagement and outreach can continue to achieve results* 4.9 to increase positive perceptions. 7.6 Relevant role in development* 6.3 5.5 7.6 Positive influence on shaping 6.4 development policy* 5.3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating How familiar are you with the work of the WBG in Costa Rica? 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 Costa Rica? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much Q The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in Costa Rica. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree *Significant difference between levels of familiarity The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Costa Rica. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Costa Rica. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree How effective is the WBG in helping Costa Rica achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective 13 Costa Rica is Nearly On Par with Other Latin America and the Caribbean Countries on KPIs 7.0 Relevant role in development 6.9 Effectiveness in helping to achieve 7.0 results 6.8 Costa Rica FY24 6.8 Latin America Trust the WBG to do what is right & the Caribbean 7.1 FY22-FY23 6.8 Alignment with development priorities 6.7 Positive influence on shaping 6.8 development policy 6.6 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating Q FY22-FY23 Latin America and the Caribbean countries: Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, Jamaica, Honduras, Panama, and Peru. 14 Stakeholder Trends Across Performance Indicators Respondents from the Office of the President, Vice All Respondents 6.9 President, and Minister had the highest mean ratings across the aggregated responses to the nineteen COS indicator Office of the President, Vice- 7.9 questions. In contrast, respondents from the private sector President, Minister and academia had significantly lower ratings. Local Government Office or Staff 7.4 ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who Government Institution 7.3 indicated that they collaborate with the WBG gave significantly higher ratings across the aggregated Office of a Parliamentarian indicator questions compared to respondents who 7.2 (Legislative Assembly) did not collaborate with the WBG: Bilateral or Multilateral Agency 7.0 Mean rating: Collaborate with WBG = 8.1 Do not collaborate = 6.7 Media 6.5 Civil Society Organization 6.5 Academia / Research Centers 6.4 Private Sector 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. A significant difference between stakeholder groups. 15 16 World Bank Group’s Support for Development Areas “Greater involvement and support for local governments. Greater coordination with public universities to carry out joint activities in favor of the development of communities, territories and the country in general. Joint work could have a greater impact on the definition and approval of public policies.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Costa Rica? (N=145) Development Areas Education 52% for WBG Focus Transport infrastructure 43% Crime and violence 40% As in FY21, education was the top area where stakeholders Jobs 35% would like the WBG to focus its resources in FY24. This year, Climate change 31% there was a significant increase in the prioritization of transport infrastructure, rising from 9% in FY21 to 43% in FY24 and in the Debt management 24% focus on crime and violence, jumping from 1% in FY21 to 40% in FY24. Public sector governance 24% Jobs, the second-highest priority in FY21, remain a top priority for Digital infrastructure development 22% respondents in FY24. Social protection 21% Environment / natural resource 21% management In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Private sector development 20% could do to increase its effectiveness in Costa Rica? Agriculture / food security 19% “Focus more fully on investments that promote human development, specifically, on closing the socioeconomic gaps Water / sanitation 18% increasingly widening in our society. This will be achieved through a substantial improvement in all levels of education, Gender equity 14% particularly in primary and secondary education, recovering the quality of educational infrastructure, teaching skills, and related Urban development 14% services provided to students and families.” (Academia Respondent) Energy 10% Health / pandemic preparedness 10% Which areas should the WBG prioritize to have the most impact on development results in Costa 17 Q Rica? (Select up to 5) (Percentage of Respondents, N=221) Effectiveness of WBG’s Sectoral Support The WBG’s work in macroeconomic stability received the highest effectiveness ratings. However, it is notable that respondents’ ratings for most areas have declined compared to FY21, particularly in transport, climate change, and education. Respondents from civil society, the private sector, and the media consistently provided the lowest ratings for the WBG's sectoral effectiveness. Human Development Finance / Institutions / Economic Growth 6.6 7.0 Health 7.1 Macroeconomic stability Debt sustainability 6.9 6.5 Gender equity* 7.3 Trade* 6.6 7.4 6.2 FY24 FY24 Education* 7.1 Public sector governance 6.5 6.7 FY21 FY21 6.1 Private sector development 6.5 Social inclusion* 6.9 6.8 Regional integration* 6.4 7.1 6.0 Social protection 6.5 5.9 *Significant difference Job creation / employment 6.3 between years Infrastructure Environmental Sustainability Energy / extractives 6.6 Environment / natural resource 6.5 6.5 management* 7.1 Digital development Transport* 6.5 6.3 7.3 Climate change* 7.3 FY24 Urban development 6.3 FY24 FY21 6.2 FY21 6.0 Water supply and sanitation infrastructure Agriculture and food security 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Effectiveness 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Q How effective has the WBG been at achieving development results in each of these areas in Costa Rica? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective (If you have NO exposure to/experience in working in any of the sectors listed below, please respond “Don’t know”) Mean Rating of Effectiveness 18 19 World Bank Group’s Engagement on the Ground in Costa Rica “Greater involvement in the formulation, execution, monitoring, and evaluation of projects, in a timely manner and taking into account the needs and characteristics of Costa Rica.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Costa Rica? (N=145) The WBG is Seen as a Long-Term Partner In FY24, respondents continue to view the WBG as a long- 7.6 term partner to Costa Rica, recognizing its openness in Being a long-term partner to Costa Rica 7.8 sharing data and information. Perceptions of the institution’s responsiveness continue to be moderately positive. Openness (sharing data and 7.1 other information) 7.2 Responsiveness to needs in 6.8 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Costa Rica? Costa Rica FY24 6.8 FY21 “Communicate or give greater visibility to the projects carried out in Costa Rica and their importance in improving the socioeconomic conditions of its inhabitants. Coordinate efforts Access to WBG staff and 6.7 with various public and private organizations to achieve greater experts 6.2 impact and reach. Ensure that all projects carried out translate into tangible results for civil society..” (Media Respondent) “Expand the dissemination of studies and feedback with other Flexibility when circumstances 6.6 actors in civil society.” (Civil Society Respondent) change in Costa Rica 6.5 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? 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 Seen as Effectively Collaborating with the National Government and Other Donors and Partners In FY24, respondents perceived the WBG as most effective at 7.7 National government collaborating with the national government, followed by 7.7 other donors and development partners (ratings significantly improved since FY21). Although somewhat Other donors and 7.5 improved, the WBG’s collaboration with civil society was development partners* 6.8 rated the lowest. 7.1 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Academia / research centers could do to increase its effectiveness in Costa Rica? “The WBG should be closer to civil society groups, academics, 7.0 and local governments to learn about and benefit from the Private sector 6.7 FY24 areas of knowledge that the Group has. In this sense, it can follow the example of the IMF, which It convenes different civil FY21 society groups to hear about their work (accountability) and the 6.9 areas to be covered in future programs, twice a year.” Local government (Civil Society Respondent) “Opening dialogue with civil society, opening spaces for 6.7 "bottom-up" projects.” Legislative Assembly (Bilateral or Multilateral Respondent) “The design of more effective mechanisms for work in groups Civil society (e.g., NGOs, 6.5 that involve the private sector, public sector and civil society.” CBOs) 6.0 (Office of Parliamentarian Respondent) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Costa Rica, in terms of collaborating with the following Q groups? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree *Significant difference between years 21 Stakeholders Want the Bank to Collaborate More with Local Government, Civil Society, and Private Sector A majority of respondents in this year’s survey indicated that the WBG should collaborate more with local government in Local government 41% addition to its partnership with the national government. Respondents also wanted to see the WBG collaborate more with civil society, the private sector, and academia. Civil society (e.g., NGOs, 37% CBOs) Outreach to the private sector is also recommended because respondents from these stakeholder groups reported the lowest levels of familiarity with the Bank. Private sector 34% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the Academia / research WBG could do to increase its effectiveness 33% centers in Costa Rica? “Working directly with local governments, which is the basis for territorial development of national governments. Local Legislative Assembly 26% governments are the ones that really know the specific territorial needs of the population, and they also have a greater capacity to evaluate and supervise public investment, Other donors and reducing public spending […] The WBG bank should invest in development partners / strengthening the management capacities of local 16% regional development governments and thus be able to improve their capacity to banks execute public budgets.” (Local Government Respondent) Other 1% In addition to its partnership with the National government, which of the following should the WBG collaborate Q with more to have greater impact in Costa Rica? (Select up to 2) (Percentage of Respondents, N=203) 22 23 World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work “I believe there are many opportunities for a greater presence of IFC in the country.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent) “Greater linkage of its financing to national needs, jointly using the bank's global knowledge with the local knowledge of actors such as the State of the Nation Program (PEN) and its different specific studies (State of the Nation/State of Education/State of Justice / Hypatia/ State of the Region).” (Academia Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Costa Rica? (N=145) Respondents Identify Financial Resources, Technical Assistance, and Implementation Support as the Bank's Most Valuable Activities in Costa Rica Financial resources 55% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the Technical assistance and 43% WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Costa implementation support Rica? “Provide technical and financial cooperation to make public Knowledge and analytical products 26% management more technical through management instruments and performance by results.” (Office of Parliamentarian Respondent) Mobilizing third party financial 22% resources “Technical cooperation for project development.” (Government Institution Respondent) Capacity development and training 22% “Generate lower interest rates. Better supervise the operation of resources in the Government. Provide more aid for culture, education, and the environment. Provide Convening / bringing together 8% more financial resources for culture, education, the different groups of stakeholders environment, and scientific and technological research. Donate more to research, culture, the environment, and education.” (Media Respondent) Development partner coordination 6% Other 4% Which WBG activities do you VALUE the most in Costa Rica? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=223) 24 WBG Seen as Insisting on Accountability Through its Lending Respondents generally hold positive views of the WBG’s financial instruments, with particular appreciation for the strong The WBG insists on 7.6 emphasis on accountability in the WBG’s lending practices. accountability through its lending 7.8 Additionally, there was broad agreement that the WBG’s Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) requirements The WBG’s Environmental and 7.6 are reasonable. Social Framework requirements are reasonable 7.2 ▪ Respondents from civil society had the lowest levels of agreement that the WBG insists on accountability through its lending (mean = 6.1). In contrast, respondents from the office of the The WBG effectively monitors 7.4 President/VP/Minister and academia had the highest ratings and evaluates the projects it supports in Costa Rica 7.4 (mean = 8.7 and 8.4, respectively). ▪ Respondents from the Office of the President/VP/Minister, FY24 academia, and government institutions had the highest ratings for The conditions of the WBG’s 7.2 FY21 the WBG's effectiveness in monitoring and evaluating projects in financing are competitive compared to markets Costa Rica (means = 8.9, 8.3, and 8.2, respectively). In contrast, respondents from the private sector had the lowest ratings (mean = 6.3). The WBG provides financial 7.2 support in a timely manner 6.7 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Costa Rica? “Be more demanding with public entities in charge of executing The WBG’s financial 7.1 instruments meet the needs of World Bank loans (for example, INCOPESCA's capacity to 6.9 Costa Rica execute the loan from the Sustainable Fisheries Program in accordance with the agreed conditions should be studied).” 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 (Civil Society Respondent) 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 32% of Respondents Have Used the WBG’s Knowledge Work; Those Who Have Were Significantly More Satisfied The WBG brings global expertise to Costa 8.4 Rica as part of its knowledge work* 7.1 Working with the WBG increases Costa 8.3 Yes Rica’s institutional capacity* 7.0 32% Have you ever Have you I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s 8.2 ever used used the WBG’s knowledge work in Costa Rica* the WBG’s knowledge work? 6.3 knowledge work? No Yes 68% The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to 7.8 No Costa Rica’s context* 6.5 When I need to consult the WBG’s 7.4 knowledge work, I know how to find it* 6.3 *Significant difference 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 between usage Mean Rating Have you ever used the WBG’s knowledge work, including participating in workshops or training programs? (Percentage of Respon dents, N=201) Q To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 26 Working with the WBG Increases Costa Rica’s Institutional Capacity Respondents had the highest levels of agreement that The WBG brings global expertise to Costa 7.7 the WBG brings global expertise to Costa Rica, and Rica as part of its knowledge work^ 7.8 working with the WBG increases Costa Rica’s institutional capacity. Fewer respondents agreed that they know how to find the WBG’s knowledge work, with Working with the WBG increases Costa 7.5 respondents from civil society and the office of a Rica’s institutional capacity 7.1 parliamentarian showing the lowest levels of awareness. Significance of contribution WBG’s 7.2 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the knowledge work makes to development results in Costa Rica 7.1 WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Costa Rica? FY24 “Generating strategic alliances with other national and I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s 7.2 FY21 sub-national, public and private actors. Promoting a knowledge work in Costa Rica culture of rigorous review and accountability, implementing performance measurement instruments, and impact assessment of projects managed or 7.0 The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to supported by the Group. Expanding its communication Costa Rica’s context^^ channels and target audiences. 7.5 Strengthening training and awareness-raising lines on the GBM, its purposes, objectives, strategic lines of work, When I need to consult the WBG’s 6.8 methodologies, and project portfolio, aimed at more knowledge work, I know how to find it social actors.” (Civil Society Respondent) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q How significant a contribution do you believe the WBG’s knowledge work makes to development results in Costa Rica? Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant ^Compared to “Source of relevant information on global good practices" asked in FY21. 27 ^^Compared to “Adaptable to Costa Rica’s specific development challenges and country circumstances" in FY21 28 The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Costa Rica “To have greater ideological openness and understand that there are solutions that must be shared between the private sector, civil society, and the State, without opening the way to institutional weakening by confusing it with modernity.” (Private Sector Respondent) “Promote the opening of data, access to public information regulated by law and real transparency, focused on promoting informed participation and the capacity for deliberation, from citizens and civil servants. In addition, it should approach civil society organizations and organized groups to have a clear and complete picture of reality beyond what they can contribute from the state apparatus.” (Civil Society Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Costa Rica? (N=145) How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses More engagement with stakeholders, capacity building, and investment to better align with Costa Rica’s needs, context, and capacity. Knowledge 12% • More training/capacity building, particularly at the local level Focus Area • Education, innovation, skills development • More long-term technical assistance • Infrastructure development 23% • Public sector efficiency and effectiveness • Supporting local research initiatives • Greater dissemination and accessibility to studies, reports, • Social inclusion and inequality reduction and training programs Knowledge Focus Area • Better credit conditions Engagement • Collaboration with civil society and Financial Financial • More non-reimbursable funding 18% academic institutions Support Support (grants or aid) • Work more closely with local • Streamline the mechanisms for governments 10% approving and disbursing funds • Utilizing local expertise in the design and implementation of Results • Enhanced monitoring of resource projects Results usage, with an emphasis on Engagement 10% transparency Communi • Long-term monitoring and follow-up Operational • Be more flexible and responsive to the cation of projects actual conditions on the ground Operational Effectiveness • Adapt WBG products, services, and Effectiveness • Greater visibility of the project’s impacts, Communication 17% strategies to the local cultural and audit results economic context 10% • Broader dissemination of research, • Be more transparent and ensure that educational programs, etc. information is readily available to civil • Better communication with partners and society and other stakeholders about partnership opportunities In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Q could do to increase its effectiveness in Costa Rica? (N=145) 29 How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses Enhance collaboration with local governments and civil society, prioritize investments in education and infrastructure, and strengthen public sector capacity to effectively manage resources and reduce socio-economic inequalities. Focus Area Engagement “Influence institutional capacities so that the State operates efficiently, effectively and with “In many cases, it finances processes that are carried out with civil society and which are much greater emphasis on supporting the most vulnerable groups, since inequality in CR then not considered. In addition, it should respect and listen more to the actions that the continues to grow and poverty stagnates, despite solid economic growth.” government carries out with the actors or civil society to promote other activities and not (Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent) impose other processes.” (Government Institution Respondent) “1. Infrastructure development: Prioritize projects that improve connectivity, energy “…Greater contact with civil society, which allows for the formulation of projects that are efficiency, and environmental sustainability. 2. Investment in education and training: more in line with the socio-economic reality that is not always represented by the position of Improve the quality of education and technical training to meet the demands of the global national governments. Greater efforts in dissemination and training, especially for civil market, especially in technological areas. 3. Prioritize projects that reduce socioeconomic society..” (Civil Society Respondent) inequality and promote social inclusion, including initiatives to empower women and improve access to basic services for marginalized communities. 4. Facilitate private sector “Get more involved with NGOs by providing non-reimbursable financial aid so that they can growth with increased financing and assistance to small and medium-sized develop important projects for vulnerable communities. (Office of the President/VP/Minister) enterprises (Office of Parliamentarian Respondent) Operational Effectiveness “Improve the selection of beneficiaries in terms of proposals for the use of funds and capacity for implementation. Periodic follow-up evaluations to avoid waste or underutilization of funds.” (Office of Parliamentarian Respondent) “Being more flexible and accessible, taking into account the reality of the country, not what they want to show, but taking into account the socioeconomic reality of the people and the government's finances, which are a disaster, not allowing some to waste money on colts made by those who govern and favoring their cronies, but rather supervising investments with a magnifying glass and the destination of the money.” (Private Sector Respondent) “Studies adjusted to the situation of the country, where the points of comparison are not other countries, but historical studies carried out in the country.” (Government Institution Respondent) In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Q could do to increase its effectiveness in Costa Rica? (N=145) 30 How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses Focus on increasing transparency and monitoring of funded projects and improving the dissemination and visibility of its objectives and actions across various sectors. Knowledge Financial Support “Train human talent to improve public management.” (Local Government Respondent) “Have more non-reimbursable resources to invest in areas of little political value but necessary (governance, best practices, modernization of the state, etc.) that are otherwise difficult to carry out with public funds.” (Office of the President, Vice-President, Minister) “…The WBG should invest in strengthening the management capacities of local governments to enhance their ability to execute public budgets.” (Local Government Respondent) “Streamline mechanisms for approving and disbursing funds for priority projects.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent) “By providing more training, that is, teaching how to do things, and less credit, which ultimately results in greater impoverishment of the country due to the need to adopt measures “…More non-reimbursable financial support” (Local Government Respondent) that worsen the quality of life of the country's inhabitants so that it can meet its financial commitments.” (Government Institution Respondent) “Get more involved with NGOs by providing non-reimbursable financial aid so that they can develop important projects for vulnerable communities.” “Greater dissemination and accessibility of studies and reports, promotion of training (Office of the President, Vice-President, Minister) programs, and closer engagement with academia. Regarding the dissemination of training activities, it seems that they do not reach Costa Rica in a timely manner. I mention this because, in the field of maritime law, I found out about a course through an Argentine colleague. In the end, I was not selected due to a communication issue. However, I know that Results the course they are currently offering is a good one.” (Academia Respondent) “Greater follow-up and monitoring of the projects carried out, in the long term. Conduct longitudinal studies of the social impact of the project carried out.” “Study programs, information.” (Private Sector Respondent) (Government Institution Respondent) Communication “Strengthen training and awareness initiatives regarding the WBG, its purposes, objectives, strategic lines of work, methodol ogies, and project portfolio, aimed at a broader range of social actors.” (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) 31 32 Communication and Outreach “Make the WBG’s objectives, plans, and activities better known beyond the central government.” (Government Principal Respondent) “Develop processes for greater dissemination of the scope of the work carried out by the entity.” (Academia Respondent) “To make the contributions it makes to our country more widely known and to make known what it is for or what its functions and contacts are.” (Private Sector Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Costa Rica? (N=145) Events, e-Newsletters, and Direct Messaging were Most Preferred for Receiving WBG Communication Respondents most preferred to receive Bank communications through events/conferences/seminars/workshops (in person or online), e-newsletters, and direct messaging. Significant differences exist between stakeholder groups in their preferences for social media (much more preferred among the private sector) and direct contact (much more preferred among those from the Office of the President/PM/Minister and bilateral/multilateral agencies). Preferred WBG Channel Office of the Bilateral/Mult All President/ Office of a Government Local ilateral Respondents PM/Minister Parliamentarian Institutions Government Agency Civil Society Private Sector Academia Media Event / conference / seminar / 49.0% 33.3% 61.1% 62.8% 56.3% 42.9% 50.0% 25.0% 65.2% 23.1% workshop (in person or online)* e-Newsletters 39.8% 22.2% 22.2% 41.9% 31.3% 35.7% 46.4% 43.8% 43.5% 53.8% Direct messaging (e.g., WhatsApp, 37.2% 33.3% 38.9% 14.0% 6.3% 14.3% 17.9% 21.9% 13.0% 30.8% Telegram, Viber) Social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter)* 29.6% 0.0% 11.1% 18.6% 31.3% 21.4% 32.1% 53.1% 39.1% 38.5% Direct contact with staff (e.g., in 19.4% 77.8% 38.9% 39.5% 43.8% 64.3% 32.1% 18.8% 26.1% 38.5% person, virtually, phone, email)* How would you prefer to receive communication from the WBG? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=196) *Significant difference between stakeholder groups 33 More than Half Engaged with the WBG Recently, Most Often through Newspapers, Social Media, and Direct Contact 55% of respondents recalled hearing or seeing something about the WBG recently. Respondents most often reported seeing/hearing about the WBG in the newspapers, social media, and through direct contact with staff. Newspapers 40% Social media 36% Direct contact with WBG staff 35% Television (TV) 28% WBG websites 26% No Do you recall e-Newsletters 22% 45% seeing or hearing anything about Yes Event / conference / seminar 18% the WBG 55% recently? Radio 9% Direct messaging 8% Other 4% Blogs 4% Podcasts 2% Do you recall seeing or hearing anything about the WBG recently? (N=197) Q Where do you recall seeing or hearing this information? (Select all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=108) 34 WBG Economic Forecasts and Work on Climate Change were the Most Commonly Recalled Topics Respondents most frequently recalled WBG’s economic forecasts and its work or research on climate change. WBG economic forecasts 44% Climate change 43% Debt relief for developing countries 29% Human capital (education, health) 22% Digital economy 22% Ending poverty in developing countries 21% Women empowerment 18% Changes to the WBG financial and operational model 16% Other 16% Job creation / employment 15% Food security 15% Pandemic preparedness 12% Youth development 4% If you answered “Yes” for E3, 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=109) Climate Change Communications can be More Impactful when Related to Decrease in Water Availability, Droughts, and Heatwaves Eight out of ten respondents expressed deep concern about the potential impacts of climate change in Costa Rica, particularly regarding decreased water availability and quality and the increasing frequency and severity of droughts. Additionally, respondents highlighted increased heatwaves as a significant area of concern. 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 Decreased water availability / quality 81% More frequent and severe droughts 77% More frequent and severe heatwaves 71% Decreased crop yields / increased food insecurity 69% Land and forest degradation 67% Loss of jobs 67% Extinction of plant / animal species 66% More frequent and severe floods 66% More frequent and intense wildfires 64% Coastal flooding due to sea level rise 54% Air pollution 53% Increased erosion of shoreline 46% Climate-driven migration 45% How concerned are you about the following potential impacts of climate change in Costa Rica? Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=~225) 36 37 Sample Demographics and Detailed Methodology Sample Demographics What is the primary specialization Do you Yes of your work? (N=195) collaborate/work 9% Generalist (specialize in multiple 14% with the World Bank sectors) Group (WBG) Other 14% in Costa Rica? (N=225) Education 13% Public sector governance 13% Private sector development / trade 10% No 91% Agriculture and food security 5% Legal / human rights 5% Environment / natural resource management 4% Which of the Social protection 4% following WBG agencies do you World Bank (IBRD) 90% Transport 4% collaborate/work Health / pandemic preparedness 3% with in Costa Rica? (N=20) International Finance Digital development 3% 10% Corporation (IFC) Macroeconomics, fiscal / debt 2% management International Centre for Climate change 2% Settlement of 10% Investment Disputes Energy 2% (ICSID) Gender equity 1% Percentages equal more than 100% because respondents could choose Water / sanitation 1% multiple agencies within the WBG. 38 Sample Demographics (continued) What is your gender? (N=196) What’s your age? (N=196) 25 or younger 4% Male 26-35 13% 56% 36-45 29% 46-55 26% Female 41% 56 and above 24% Prefer not to specify 4% Prefer not to specify, 4% 39 Detailed Methodology Percentage of Respondents FY 2021 FY 2024 From March to May 2024, a total of 850 stakeholders in Costa Rica were invited to provide Government Principals: Office of the President, Prime Minister, Minister, 13% 14% their opinions on the WBG’s work by participating in a Country Opinion Survey (COS). A list of Parliamentarian potential participants was compiled by the WBG country team and the field agency. Participants were drawn from the Offices of the President, Vice President, Minister, and office Government Institutions: Employee of a Ministry, Department, Project Implementation of parliamentarians; government institutions; local governments; bilateral or multilateral Unit, Independent Government Institution, 11% 22% agencies; the private sector; civil society; academia; and the media. Judiciary, State-Owned Enterprise Of these stakeholders, 225 participated in the survey (35% response rate). Respondents Local Government 16% 8% 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% 8% rate of 35% (N=162). Bank, UN Agency Comparing responses across Country Surveys reflects changes in attitudes over time as Civil Society Organization: Local and well as changes in respondent samples, changes in methodology, and changes to the survey regional NGOs, Community-Based Organization, Private Foundation, 10% 13% 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 had a broader distribution of Faith-Based Group, Youth Group respondents across stakeholder groups, with better outreach to and/or response from government institutions and civil society organizations. Any differences in stakeholder Private Sector: Private Company, Financial 16% 17% composition between the two years should be considered when interpreting the results of the Sector Organization, Private Bank past-year comparison analyses. Academia / Research Center 16% 12% Key statistically significant findings (tested at the research standard of p < .05) are noted throughout the report. Media 7% 7% Breakdowns for individual questions by stakeholder group can be found in the “Costa Rica 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 242 225 Q What is your primary professional affiliation? (Select only 1 response) N= 225 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 Costa Rica? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much A2. How effective is the World Bank Group in helping Costa Rica 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 Costa Rica? 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 Costa Rica. A5. The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Costa Rica. A6. The WBG has a positive influence on shaping development policy in Costa Rica. A7. The WBG’s work helps end poverty in Costa Rica 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 Costa Rica C1_2. Access to WBG staff and experts C1_3. Flexibility when circumstances change in Costa Rica C1_5. Being a long-term partner to Costa Rica To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Costa Rica, 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 Costa Rica. 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 Costa Rica. C6_4. The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to Costa Rica’s context. 41 Thank you For more information about this report or the Country Opinion Survey program, please contact: countrysurveys@worldbankgroup.org