FY 2024 Việt Nam Country Opinion Survey Report ECR Business Intelligence Team | September 2024 Acknowledgements The Việt Nam 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 Việt Nam country team and independent field agency, Development and Policies Research Center (DEPOCEN). In particular, BI is grateful for the support from Ngan Hong Nguyen (Senior External Affairs Officer) and Anh Thi Quynh Le (External Affairs Officer), who coordinated the survey-related activities from Hanoi, Việt Nam. 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 Work and Engagement on the Ground in Việt Nam World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Việt Nam Communications 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 Việt Nam 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 Việt Nam’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 four years? How effective is the WBG perceived to be in these areas? 4. Engagement and Work on the Ground: What do key stakeholders value the most and the least about the WBG’s work in Việt Nam? How is the WBG perceived as a development partner? Are opinions improving or declining? 5. Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work: What are key stakeholders’ opinions of WBG financial instruments and knowledge products? Are opinions improving or declining? What are stakeholders’ suggestions for improving WBG’s effectiveness? 6. Communication and Outreach: What are the preferred communication channels? Are there differences among stakeholder groups in terms of preferred channels? 7. Message Recall: What key topics do stakeholders recall when the WBG communicates? Is there a relationship between message recall and views of the WBG’s work? 4 Methodology Overview Local Government Office or Staff 24% ▪ Fielded May – August 2024 ▪ 985 potential participants were asked to complete a mostly Government Institution 19% quantitative survey ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online and on paper Academia / Research Centers 15% ▪ List of names provided by the WBG country team and Central Government (Office of supplemented by the field agency Prime Minister, Minister, Central 12% ▪ Process managed on the ground by the field agency Agencies) Civil Society Organization 10% ▪ 389 participants (39% response rate) ▪ 62% from Hanoi Media 7% ▪ 78% currently collaborate with the WBG Private Sector 7% ▪ Compared to FY20 Country Survey ▪ 580 participants (56% response rate) Bilateral or Multilateral Agency 6% ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online and on paper ▪ 58% collaborated with the WBG National Assembly, legislative 1% body Click here for details of the Respondent Sample and Methodology. What is your primary professional affiliation? Q (Select only 1 response) (Percentage of Respondents, N=389) 5 6 Overall Context “In recent years, the World Bank Group has operated very effectively in Việt Nam. But in my opinion, the most important thing the World Bank Group can do to further improve operational efficiency in Việt Nam is to prioritize cooperation and funding in the Education and Health sectors. This is an investment in people. People in any era, in any political regime (of which Việt Nam is no exception), are always the subject, the important factor in creating, building, developing, and having decisive significance. [They] determine the survival of each nation...” (Central Government Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to increase its effectiveness in Việt Nam? (N=232) Stakeholders Most Familiar with the WBG, UN and ADB ▪ Respondents in this year’s Country Survey were asked to 7.7 World Bank Group* indicate their familiarity with the work of several 6.7 international organizations and the World Bank Group (WBG). Of these organizations, respondents in Việt Nam 6.9 indicated the highest levels of familiarity with the work of United Nations the World Bank Group, followed by the United Nations and Asian Development Bank. Respondents were least familiar with the work of the Asian Infrastructure 6.8 Investment Bank (AIIB). Asian Development Bank (ADB) ▪ Respondents’ familiarity with the WBG in this year’s FY24 survey was significantly higher than in FY20. 6.4 FY20 European Union 5.8 International Monetary Fund Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank 4.3 (AIIB) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Familiarity How familiar are you with the work of these organizations in Việt Nam? Q Scale: (1-"Not familiar at all", 10-"Extremely familiar") 7 Familiarity with the World Bank Group ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who indicated All Respondents 7.7 that they collaborate with the WBG reported significantly higher levels of familiarity with the institution’s work: Central Government 8.2 Mean familiarity: Collaborate with WBG = 8.1 Do not collaborate = 6.6 Academia 8.2 ▪ Stakeholders: Respondents from across stakeholder groups Government Institutions 8.1 reported statistically similar levels of familiarity, with respondents from the central government and academia Local Government 7.8 slightly more familiar with the work and respondents from civil society less familiar. Media 7.6 Private Sector 7.3 Bilateral /Multilateral Agency 7.2 Civil Society 6.2 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 Việt Nam? (World Bank Group) Q Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Extremely familiar (N=387) 8 Trust in WBG Remains High National Assembly / legislative 8.4 branch and Stable 8.4 National government* 7.7 In FY24, respondents in Việt Nam gave the highest trust 8.1 ratings for the National Assembly and national and local Local government government, followed by the WBG. 8.0 World Bank Group 8.1 ▪ While most stakeholders expressed high trust in the WBG, civil society, and the private sector respondents had 7.7 United Nations significantly lower ratings than other stakeholder groups 7.6 (mean = 7.1 and 7.4, respectively). Regional Development Banks 7.6 (ADB)* 7.2 ▪ Trust ratings for the national government, private sector, FY24 regional development banks, and media have significantly 7.4 Bilateral organizations FY20 7.5 increased since FY20, while the IMF's trust ratings have decreased. International Monetary Fund* 7.2 7.6 7.1 Academia / research centers 7.1 Private sector * 6.6 6.8 Civil society 6.6 *Significant difference 6.7 between years Media* 6.1 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 Việt Nam? Mean Rating of Trust Q Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much (FY24 N=~342; FY20 N=~460) 9 10 Overall Attitudes toward the World Bank Group “…It is recommended to mobilize and use experts with a practical understanding of development needs in regions and localities of Việt Nam to consider proposals and recommendations on urgent and necessary contents to serve development. It is better to use foreign experts who do not have a deep understanding of the actual conditions in Việt Nam or consider only on a theoretical and academic basis.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to increase its effectiveness in Việt Nam? (N=232) Key Performance Indicators In FY24, a majority of respondents agreed with the Ending poverty and reducing 7.9 statement that the WBG ends poverty and reduces inequality inequality. Fewer respondents this year reckon that WBG aligns Alignment with development 7.8 with the development priorities and plays a relevant priorities* role in development compared to FY20 results. 8.1 However, despite the decreased ratings, the perception of these KPIs remains high. Effectiveness in helping Việt 7.8 Nam achieve results^^ FY24 7.7 FY20 The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Việt Q Nam. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 7.8 The WBG has a positive influence on shaping development policy in Việt Nam. Relevant role in development* Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree 8.0 The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Việt Nam. Scale: 1Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree How effective has the WBG been in achieving development results in Việt Nam? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective The WBG’s work helps end poverty and reduce inequality in Việt Nam. Positive influence on shaping 7.5 Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree development policy^ 7.5 ^In FY20, the question was: “To what extent does the World Bank Group influence the development agenda in Việt Nam? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating ^^Compared to a mean score of the two questions asked in FY20: "Overall, please rate your impression of the WBG’s effectiveness in Việt Nam. Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective; To what extent does the WBG’s work help to *Significant difference between years achieve development results in Việt Nam? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a 11 very significant degree Stakeholders from the 8.2 7.9 8.0 Effectiveness in helping Việt Central Government and Nam achieve results* 6.8 6.8 7.2 8.1 Academia Have More 7.8 8.1 Positive Perceptions of 7.8 7.9 Alignment with development 8.1 the WBG priorities* 7.1 6.8 8.2 8.1 Comparisons of ratings for key performance indicators 8.1 8.1 between stakeholder groups show that respondents 8.2 Trust the WBG to do what is 8.0 from central government and academia have the right for Việt Nam* 7.1 highest ratings for the WBG work across all KPIs. In 7.4 8.4 contrast, private sector and civil society respondents 7.9 had significantly lower ratings. 8.0 Central Government 7.3 7.5 Government Institutions Positive influence on shaping 7.8 Local Government development policy 7.1 7.2 Bilaterals/ Multilaterals 7.9 7.5 Civil Society Private Sector 7.9 7.8 Academia 7.9 7.8 Media Relevant role in development* 7.2 6.9 *Significant 8.1 difference between 8.0 stakeholder groups 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 Comparing ratings of key performance indicators 8.5 among respondents highly familiar with the WBG Trust* 7.5 (ratings of 8-10 on a 10-point scale) and those with 5.5 little familiarity with the WBG (ratings of 1-4 on a 10- point scale), one can see that the more familiar 8.1 stakeholders are with the WBG, the more positive their Relevance* 7.4 perceptions of it and its work are. 6.0 8.1 Meaningful engagement and outreach can Effectiveness in achieving results* 7.4 continue to increase positive perceptions. 6.0 8.1 Alignment* 7.5 6.0 7.9 Influence* 7.1 5.9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Việt Nam. Q Scale: 1Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Mean Rating To what extent do you trust the WBG to do what is right? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree How familiar are you with the work of the WBG in Việt Nam? The WBG has a positive influence on shaping development policy in Việt Nam? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree High Familiarity (8-10) Some Familiarity (5-7) Low Familiarity (1-4) How effective has the WBG been in achieving development results in Việt Nam? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective *Significant difference between The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities levels of familiarity for Việt Nam. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 13 Việt Nam’s Key Performance Indicators are Notably Higher than those of other EAP and IBRD Countries Surveyed in FY24 8.0 Trust the WBG to do what is right 7.7 7.3 7.8 Effectiveness in helping Việt Nam 7.4 achieve results 7.2 Vietnam FY24 7.8 EAP FY24 Alignment with development 7.6 IBRD FY24 priorities 7.1 7.8 Relevant role in development 7.8 7.0 7.5 Positive influence on shaping 7.6 development policy 7.1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating FY24 EAP countries: Cambodia, Lao PDR, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands Q FY24 IBRD countries: Equatorial Guinea, Georgia, Moldova, Poland, Croatia, Chile, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Paraguay, Gulf 14 Cooperation Council, Morocco, Tunisia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Brazil, Seychelles, Uruguay, Namibia Stakeholder Trends Across Performance Indicators Respondents from academia, central government, and media had the highest mean rating across the aggregated All Respondents 7.7 responses to the nineteen COS indicator questions. In contrast, respondents from the private sector and civil society had significantly lower ratings. Academia 8.0 ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who Central Government 7.9 indicated that they collaborate with the WBG gave significantly higher ratings across the aggregated indicator Media 7.9 questions compared to respondents who do not collaborate with the WBG: Bilateral /Multilateral Agency 7.8 Mean rating: Collaborate with WBG = 8.2 Do not collaborate = 7.2 Government Institutions 7.8 Local Government 7.7 Private Sector 7.1 Civil Society 7.0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Aggregated Indicator Questions Q All Indicator Questions asked on a Scale from 1 to 10. Click here for details of these Indicator Questions. 15 16 World Bank Group’s Support for Development Areas “Focus on: (i) Climate change and enhanced adaptation; (ii) Effective management of natural resources; and (iii) Eliminate hunger and reduce poverty, narrow the gap between rich and poor.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to increase its effectiveness in Việt Nam? (N=232) Development Areas Climate change 51% for WBG Focus Transport infrastructure 42% Environment / natural resource 39% As in FY20, climate change was the #1 priority for the WBG’s management focus emphasized by respondents this year. The perceived Education 37% importance of transport infrastructure increased from 16% in FY20 to 42% in FY24 and became the #2 priority for stakeholders, Public sector governance 31% with particular emphasis placed by government officials. Digital infrastructure development 31% Urban development 28% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Private sector development 28% could do to increase its effectiveness in Việt Nam? Water / sanitation 27% “Increase capital funding for Việt Nam, focusing on national key, large-scale projects such as projects on green transformation, Agriculture / food security 26% digital transformation, strategic transport development, urban railways, and renewable energy. electricity generation and Health / pandemic preparedness 26% transmission, smart agriculture, low-carbon development, and response to climate change.” (National Assembly Respondent) Social protection 24% “Providing preferential loans and non-refundable funds for the Việt Energy 22% Namese government (Central and Local) to develop economic infrastructure, social security, enhance community capacity, and Jobs 12% protect the sustainable environment.” Gender equity 10% (Local Government Respondent) Debt management 8% Which areas should the WBG prioritize to have the most impact on development results in Việt Nam? (Select up to 5) 17 Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=386) Effectiveness of WBG’s Sectoral Support The WBG’s work in regional integration, climate change mitigation, water supply, and transport received the highest effectiveness ratings. However, perceptions of Finance / Institutions / Economic Growth effectiveness decreased notably for gender equity, agriculture and food security, water Regional integration 7.5 and sanitation, urban development, and social inclusion. 7.6 Macroeconomic stability 7.4 Human Development Public sector governance 7.2 7.3 7.4 Gender equity* 7.7 7.2 FY24 Private sector development 7.0 7.3 FY20 Education 7.5 Debt sustainability 7.1 7.2 FY24 Health 7.5 7.1 FY20 Trade 7.4 7.1 Social inclusion* 7.0 7.5 Job creation / employment 7.3 7.0 Social protection 6.9 Infrastructure 7.5 Climate change mitigation 7.8 Environmental Sustainability Water supply and sanitation 7.5 infrastructure* 8.0 7.4 Agriculture and food security* 7.5 7.9 Transport 7.9 FY24 7.1 FY24 7.3 FY20 Urban development* 7.7 Environment / natural resource FY20 management 7.5 7.0 Digital development *Significant difference 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 between years Mean Rating of Effectiveness 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Effectiveness How effective has the WBG been at achieving development results in each of these areas in Việt Nam? 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 Work and Engagement on the Ground in Việt Nam “The World Bank analytical work and project design are very good. I believe the effectiveness of delivering outputs and outcomes might be strengthened by establishing partnerships with development partners and other stakeholders for the actual project implementation.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent) “Collaborate more with non-governmental organizations as well as the private sector and survey people to come up with more effective projects.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to increase its effectiveness in Việt Nam? (N=232) The WBG Seen as a Long-Term Partner In FY24, respondents continued to see the WBG as a long- Being a long-term partner to 8.4 term partner that openly shares the data with accessible Việt Nam* 8.6 staff and experts. This year, stakeholders perceived the WBG as significantly more flexible when circumstances change in Việt Nam than in FY20. 7.8 Openness (sharing data and ▪ Of note, respondents from civil society have significantly other information) 7.8 lower perceptions of access to WBG staff and experts than other stakeholder groups (mean = 6.3). 7.6 Access to WBG staff and experts 7.7 FY24 FY20 7.4 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Responsiveness to needs in could do to increase its effectiveness in Việt Nam? Việt Nam 7.5 “Strengthen cooperation with the private sector to promote and support the development of projects implemented in Việt Nam.” (Private Sector Respondent) Flexibility when circumstances 7.3 change in Việt Nam^* 6.9 “Strengthen links with local authorities, grasp local realities to have the most effective activities that the World Bank Group is interested in.” (Government Institution Respondent) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Việt Nam, in terms of each of the following? Q Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree 20 ^Compared to the mean of institutional flexibility and flexibility to changes in country context asked in FY20. The WBG Seen as Effectively Collaborating with Stakeholders 8.0 National government In FY24, respondents continue to see the WBG collaborating well 8.0 with the national government, other donors and development partners, and the private sector. Perceptions of collaboration 7.6 Local government with civil society have gone down since FY20. However, the difference has not reached statistical significance. 7.5 Other development partners ▪ Respondents from bilateral/multilateral agencies and civil 7.6 society had the lowest rating of collaboration with civil society (both means = 5.5). Respondents from the local government 7.5 Academia / research centers gave the highest evaluations of the WBG’s collaboration with the local government (group means = 8.1). FY24 National Assembly / legislative 7.4 FY20 branch 7.1 Private sector In your opinion, what is the most important thing the 7.1 WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Việt Nam? 6.9 “Increase collaboration with other stakeholders and Civil society 7.1 development partners in Việt Nam to create synergies and avoid duplication.” 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 (Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent) Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Việt Nam, in terms of collaborating with the following groups? Q Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree 21 Half of All Stakeholders Want the Bank to Collaborate More with Local Government • Respondents from civil society would like the WBG to Local government 50% collaborate more with civil society (82%) and the private sector (42%). • Respondents from the media would like the WBG to Private sector 43% collaborate more with the private sector (75%) and local government (50%). Academia / research centers 30% • Respondents from government institutions would like the WBG to collaborate more with local government (75%) and private sector (46%). National Assembly / legislative 25% branch In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness Civil society (e.g., NGOs, CBOs) 22% in Việt Nam? “WBG needs to work more with NGOs and the private sector.” Other development partners 19% (Civil Society Respondent) “Understand Việt Nam's context, work with many parties from government, businesses to civil society to have a balanced and comprehensive view.” (Civil Society Respondent) In addition to its partnership with the national government, which of the following should the WBG collaborate Q with more to have a greater impact in Việt Nam? (Select up to 2) (Percentage of Respondents, N=372) 22 23 World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work “Reduce emphasis on lending and more on analytical work and consensus building with other stakeholders, including government, donors, academia, and NGOs. Collaboration with other actors would improve World Bank analytical work, which is high quality but would benefit from greater knowledge of/awareness of the local context.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Việt Nam? (N=232) Financial Resources and Technical Assistance Considered the Bank’s Greatest Values In FY24, financial resources were considered the Financial resources 62% WBG’s greatest value to Việt Nam, followed by technical assistance and implementation support. Technical assistance and 41% implementation support In your opinion, what is the most important thing the Knowledge and analytical 30% WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Việt products Nam? “In order to help improve the efficiency of the World Bank's Capacity development and operations, the World Bank Group is requested to have 29% training more cheap capital sources, with low lending interest rates and long loan terms.” (Government Institution Respondent) Convening / bringing together 10% different groups of stakeholders “Increase non-refundable grants to support educational development and digital transformation in education, especially for disadvantaged areas.” Development partner (Academia Respondent) 10% coordination “Lending at preferential interest rates for infrastructure construction projects in poor localities” Mobilizing third party financial 10% (Local Government Respondent) resources Which WBG instruments do you VALUE the most in Việt Nam? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=387) 24 The WBG is Seen as Effectively Monitoring and Evaluating Projects and Insisting on Accountability through Lending Regarding WBG’s financial instruments, the ratings in FY24 The WBG effectively monitors and 7.9 stayed consistently high. Respondents had the highest levels of evaluates the projects it supports agreement that the WBG effectively monitors and evaluates in Việt Nam 7.9 the projects it supports in Việt Nam and insists on accountability through its lending. The WBG insists on accountability 7.8 through its lending The WBG provides financial 7.6 support in a timely manner^ 7.3 The WBG’s Environmental and 7.5 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Social Framework requirements could do to increase its effectiveness in Việt Nam? are reasonable 7.6 FY24 “Increase the proportion of the budget to support local non - FY20 The WBG’s financial instruments 7.4 governmental organizations or use it as a lever to mobilize capital meet the needs of Việt Nam 7.6 from the private sector to increase investment efficiency.” (Local Government Respondent) The WBG’s conditions on its 7.1 “Greater and easier access to grant funding for specialist delivery lending are reasonable partners in areas of WBG focus enabling impactful projects to support targeted groups.” The conditions of the WBG’s 7.0 (Civil Society Respondent) financing are competitive compared to markets 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” asked in FY20. 25 Majority of Respondents Have Used the WBG’s Knowledge; Those Who Have Were Satisfied With its Quality I anticipate using the WBG’s knowledge 8.4 work in the future* 7.7 Have you ever used the WBG’s The WBG brings global expertise to Việt 8.2 knowledge work, including participating Nam as part of its knowledge work* 7.9 in workshops or training programs? Working with the WBG increases Việt Nam’s 8.1 institutional capacity* 7.5 No I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s 8.1 14% knowledge work in Việt Nam* 7.1 Have you used WBG advisory The WBG’s publications are translated 8.0 services and enough into local language* 7.5 analytics in the past? The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to 7.8 Việt Nam’s context* 7.2 7.7 Yes The WBG’s knowledge work is timely* 7.3 No Yes The WBG’s publications are adequately 7.7 86% disseminated* 6.9 When I need to consult the WBG’s 7.5 knowledge work, I know how to find it 7.3 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 Q programs? (Percentage of Respondents, N=375) *Significant difference between groups To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements? 26 Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree WBG Knowledge Work is Perceived as Bringing Global Expertise and Increasing Institutional Capacity I anticipate using the WBG’s knowledge 8.3 work in the future Ratings for WBG’s knowledge products remain stable The WBG brings global expertise to Việt 8.2 and high, with a significant increase in the perception of Nam as part of its knowledge work*^ 7.9 knowledge work contribution to the development results and bringing global expertise; knowledge Working with the WBG increases Việt Nam’s 8.1 work is timely and increasing the institutional capacity institutional capacity* 7.8 of Việt Nam. Respondents had the highest levels of I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s 8.0 agreement that they anticipate using the WBG’s knowledge work in Việt Nam knowledge work in the future. Knowledge work contribution to development 8.0 results* 7.7 ▪ Respondents from the private sector and civil FY24 society agree less that the WBG’s publications are The WBG’s publications are translated 7.9 enough into local language 7.8 FY20 adequately disseminated (means =6.8 and 7.1, respectively). The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to 7.8 Việt Nam’s context 7.7 In your opinion, what is the most important 7.7 thing the WBG could do to increase The WBG’s knowledge work is timely* 7.5 its effectiveness in Việt Nam? The WBG’s publications are adequately 7.7 “Capacity building for central and local officials in Việt disseminated 7.8 Nam. Share international experiences in areas that Việt Nam needs to learn.” (Central Government Respondent) When I need to consult the WBG’s 7.5 knowledge work, I know how to find it 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Mean Rating Q How significant a contribution do you believe the World Bank Group's knowledge work and activities make to development results in Việt Nam? Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant 27 ^Compared to "Are a source of relevant information on global good practices" asked in FY20. 28 The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Việt Nam How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses Provide training, build capacity, increase engagement with non-government agencies, and tailor operations to local contexts Knowledge • More training/capacity building Focus Area • Climate change 25% • More tailored analysis of Việt • Nam’s economy and Focus Area 22% Education • Governance / corruption development needs • Environmental sustainability Communications • More promotion/ Engagement Engagement • More engagement with civil awareness of the Knowledge society and the private sector 4% WBG’s work 22% • More collaboration with sub- • Greater partnership with national government the media • Coordination with other development partners Results 2% • Reduce bureaucracy Results Financial Support Operational • Tailor operations to the local Communications Ops. Effectiveness context Financial • More grants and Effectiveness • More flexibility to adapt to Support concessional lending 12% local circumstances • Private sector funding 11% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Q could do to increase its effectiveness in Việt Nam? (N=232) 29 How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses Knowledge Engagement “Increase training/open training classes/organize seminars/provide documents on “In the context of the increasingly clear division in Việt Nam, the World Bank needs related issues. Work and support to implement specific projects locally.” to cooperate more deeply with the civil society sector to have more complete and (Local Government Respondent) multi-dimensional information, especially about weak groups and areas.” (Civil Society Respondent) “Focus on training to improve the qualifications of policymakers in Việt Nam and localities, through open professional and skill classes on development priorities, expand the mobilization of local experts to participate in research activities of the “There needs to be a mechanism to expand further the participation of World Bank, and fund universities to upgrade policy training.” (Academia Respondent) stakeholders, especially beneficiaries and consultants.” (Academia Respondent) “Strengthen leadership and strategic management capacity and skills, especially “Listen to the actual needs of localities and units in designing intervention national governance capacity and regional linkage development” activities” (Central Government Respondent) (Central Government Respondent) “Cooperate directly with development organizations to reduce the influence of central agencies.” (Academia Respondent) Financial Support “Increase the proportion of the budget to support local non -governmental Results organizations or use it as a lever to mobilize capital from the private sector to increase investment efficiency.” “Try to push harsh accountability to make every Vietnamese state official, manager, (Civil Society Respondent) or recipient personally accountable for every dollar of funding they receive and use “Long-term preferential loans for infrastructure investment.” from WBG.” (Government Institution Respondent) (Local Government Respondent) “In addition to solution and financial support, there is a need to monitor and evaluate “To put the initiatives into practical use, the World Bank Group should have a the results and effectiveness of project implementation.” (Academia Respondent) separate budget to finance pilot projects.” (Local Government Respondent) In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Q could do to increase its effectiveness in Việt Nam? (N=232) 30 How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses Operation Effectiveness Focus Area “The most important thing to improve the effectiveness of World Bank “Stabilize the macro economy, promote physical infrastructure and general operations in Việt Nam is to ensure harmony between economic development institutions.” (Local Government Respondent) and environmental protection. For example, activities to support the application “Promote transparency in public administration, improve capacity to develop of clean technology and clean energy, ensuring sustainable policies and laws.” (National Assembly Respondent) development.” (Government Institution Respondent) “Support for institutional improvement; Support infrastructure development, “Harmonize processes, procedures , and regulations in accordance with especially transportation, health and education and training infrastructure.” Vietnamese regulations related to project management organizations as well as (Central Government Respondents) environmental and social fields.” (Central Government Respondent) “Increase resources for the education and health sectors.” (Academia Respondent) “Reorganizing and restructuring the organization, the World Bank at the center “Support Việt Nam in digital transformation and Green development.” needs to decentralize more power to the World Bank in other countries to be (Local Government Respondent) more flexible in meeting Việt Nam’s requirements. No need for any problem must go through the center, especially research to improve development institutions, focusing on warnings and challenges that need to overcome the middle-income trap.” (Central Government Respondent) Outreach “Coordinate with competent and specialized agencies to implement and handle “We respectfully request that the World Bank Group pay attention to communication the approval process and carry out procedures quickly, on time, and on activities so that officials, civil servants, public employees, workers in the public schedule.” sector, people, and businesses can easily access projects and documents of the (Central Government Respondent) World Bank Group. easily, thereby participating more deeply in related activities..” (Local Government Respondent) “Make its publications more frequent and more visible.” (Media Respondent) In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Q could do to increase its effectiveness in Việt Nam? (N=232) 31 32 Communication and Outreach “Strengthen cooperation with media agencies to further highlight the effectiveness of projects that the World Bank Group has been, is, and will implement.” (Media Respondent) “Invite the press to participate in media trips in the field, helping the media understand and promptly evaluate the effectiveness and efforts of the World Bank.” (Media Respondent) “A mechanism should be built to regularly share with associations/enterprises newly translated documents and updated information on activity programs. For example, newsletters, emails .” (Civil Society Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Việt Nam? (N=232) 8 in 10 Engaged With the WBG Recently, Most Often Through WBG’s Events and Newspapers 81% of respondents recalled hearing or seeing something about the WBG recently. Respondents most often reported seeing/hearing about the WBG through events/conferences/seminars (in person or online) or newspapers. Event / conference / seminar (in 67% person or online) No Newspapers (print or online) 54% 19% Direct contact with WBG staff 54% Do you recall Television (TV) 52% seeing or hearing anything about WBG websites 47% the WBG recently? Social media 43% Yes e-Newsletters 23% 81% Radio 16% Direct messaging 10% Blogs 4% Podcasts 2% Do you recall seeing or hearing anything about the WBG recently? (N=371) Q Where do you recall seeing or hearing this information? (Check all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=301) 33 The WBG’s Work on Climate Change and Economic Forecasts were the Most Commonly Recalled Topics Respondents most frequently recalled WBG work or research on Climate change 67% climate change and economic forecasts. Almost half of respondents recalled seeing or hearing about energy transition WBG economic forecasts 62% and ending poverty in developing countries. Energy transition 48% ▪ Respondents from bilateral/multilateral agencies and media Ending poverty in developing 45% were significantly more likely to recall WBG’s work on energy countries transition (73%) than respondents from other stakeholder groups. Human capital (education, health) 40% Digital economy 35% ▪ Respondents from central government, local government, and media were more likely to recall WBG’s work on ending Women empowerment 29% poverty in developing countries (57%, 55%, and 55%, respectively). Job creation / employment 28% Changes to the WBG financial 26% and operational model Pandemic preparedness 23% Debt relief for developing 21% countries Food security 17% Youth development 8% If you answered “Yes” for E2, what topics were included in what you saw or heard about WBG’s work or research? Q (Select all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=301) 34 Events, e-Newsletters, and Direct Contact were Most Preferred for Receiving WBG Communication Preferred WBG Channel Bilateral/ All Central Government Local Private Multilateral Civil Society Academia Media Respondents Government Institution Government Sector Agency Event / conference / seminar / 60.8% 67.4% 60.0% 55.8% 60.9% 60.6% 50.0% 69.6% 57.1% workshop (in person or online) e-Newsletters 57.0% 60.9% 61.4% 46.5% 43.5% 63.6% 66.7% 58.9% 60.7% Direct contact with staff (e.g., in 39.2% 41.3% 32.9% 46.5% 52.2% 27.3% 37.5% 35.7% 39.3% person, virtually, phone, email) Social media (e.g., Facebook, 15.9% 6.5% 17.1% 17.4% 17.4% 24.2% 33.3% 12.5% 7.1% Twitter) Direct messaging (e.g., 10.3% 6.5% 11.4% 18.6% 0.0% 6.1% 4.2% 7.1% 14.3% WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) How would you prefer to receive communication from the WBG? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=370) 35 Climate Change Communications can be More Impactful when Related to Stakeholders’ Top Concerns: Air Pollution A majority of respondents were very concerned about air pollution, decreased water availability/quality, more frequent floods, and heatwaves. 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 Air pollution 78% Decreased water availability / quality 73% More frequent and severe floods 72% More frequent and severe heatwaves 72% More frequent and severe droughts 69% Coastal flooding due to sea level rise 66% Increased erosion of shoreline 59% Land and forest degradation 54% More frequent and intense wild fires 50% Decreased crop yields / increased food insecurity 47% Extinction of plant / animal species 43% Loss of jobs 41% Climate-driven migration 29% Q How concerned are you about the following potential impacts of climate change in Việt Nam? (Percentage of Respondents, N=~362) 36 37 Sample Demographics and Detailed Methodology Sample Demographics Currently, do you Which of the World Bank (IBRD) 96% professionally following agencies collaborate/work with No of the WBG do the WBG in Việt Nam? 22% you primarily International Finance Corporation (IFC) 24% (N=387) collaborate/work with in Việt Nam? (N=301) Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency 2% (MIGA) Yes 78% International Centre for Settlement of Investment 1% Disputes (ICSID) What’s your age? Which best represents your geographic (N=372) 46-55 48% location? (N=371) 36-45 28% Hanoi 62% 56 and above 16% Central region 16% 26-35 7% Ho Chi Minh City 10% Prefer not to 2% Northern region 5% specify Mekong Delta 25 or younger 0% 5% region 38 Detailed Methodology Percentage of Respondents FY 2020 FY 2024 Government Principals: Central From May to August 2024, a total of 985 stakeholders of the WBG in Việt Nam were Government (Office of Prime Minister, 2% 13% invited to provide their opinions about the WBG’s work in the country by participating in a Minister, Central Agencies), National COS. A list of potential participants was compiled by the WBG country team and the field Assembly agency. Participants were drawn from the Office of the Prime Minister, Minister, Central Government Institutions: Employee of a Ministry, Department, Project Implementation Agencies, National Assembly, government institutions, local governments, bilateral/ Unit, Independent Government Institution, 36% 19% multilateral agencies, the private sector, civil society organizations, academia, and the Judiciary, State-Owned Enterprise media. Local Government 33% 24% A total of 389 stakeholders participated in the survey (39% response rate). Respondents Bilateral/Multilateral Agency: Embassy, completed the questionnaires on paper or via an online platform. Development Organization, Development 4% 6% Bank, UN Agency This year’s survey results were compared to the FY20 Survey, with a response rate of 56% (N=580). Civil Society Organization: Local and regional NGOs, Community-Based Comparing responses across Country Surveys reflects changes in attitudes over time, as Organization, Private Foundation, 6% 10% well as changes in respondent samples, methodology, and the survey instrument itself. To Professional/Trade Association, Faith-Based Group, Youth Group reduce the influence of the latter factor, only questions with similar response scales/options were analyzed. This year’s survey saw an increased outreach to and/or response from civil Private Sector: Private Company, Financial society, academia, and media but a decrease from government institutions, local government, Sector Organization, Private Bank, Small, 9% 7% Micro & Medium Enterprise and civil society. These differences in stakeholder composition between the two years should be considered when interpreting the results of the past-year comparison analyses. Academia/Research Institute/Think Tank 4% 15% Key statistically significant findings (tested at the research standard of p < .05) are noted Media 4% 7% throughout the report. Breakdowns for individual questions by stakeholder group can be found in the “Việt Nam Other 2% 0% COS FY24 Appendices with data breakdowns.xlsx” file published in the WBG Microdata Total Number of Respondents 564 389 Library, along with the survey microdata and this report. Q What is your primary professional affiliation? (Select only 1 response) (Percentage of Respondents, N=389) 39 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 each of the following institutions to do what is right for Việt Nam? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much A2. How effective is the World Bank Group (WBG) in helping Việt Nam achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective A3. How significant a contribution do you believe the World Bank Group's knowledge work makes to development results in Việt Nam? Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements about the WBG’s work in Việt Nam? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree A4. The World Bank Group currently plays a relevant role in development in Việt Nam. A5. The World Bank Group’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Việt Nam. A6. The WBG has a positive influence on shaping development policy in Việt Nam A7. The WBG’s work helps end poverty and reduce inequality in Việt Nam. To what extent is the World Bank Group an effective development partner in Việt Nam, 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 C1_2. Access to WBG staff and experts C1_3. Flexibility when circumstances change C1_5. Being a long-term partner to Việt Nam To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Việt Nam, in terms of collaborating with the following groups?: Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree C2_1. Collaboration with the National government C2_4. Collaboration with the private sector C2_5. Collaboration with civil society C2_6. Collaboration with other donor and development partners To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree C4_1. The WBG’s financial instruments meet the needs of Việt Nam (i.e., investment lending, Development Policy Loan, Trust Funds, Program-for-Results). C4_6. The WBG provides financial support in a timely manner C6_1. I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s knowledge work in Việt Nam. C6_4. The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to Việt Nam’s context. 40 Thank you For more information about this report or the Country Opinion Survey program, please contact: countrysurveys@worldbankgroup.org