FY 2024 Lao PDR Country Opinion Survey Report ECR Business Intelligence Team | September 2024 Acknowledgements The Lao PDR 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 Lao PDR country team and independent field agency, Indochina Research (Laos) Ltd. In particular, BI is grateful for the support from Aiden Benedict Glendinning (External Affairs Officer), who coordinated the survey-related activities from Vientiane, Laos. 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 Lao PDR World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Lao PDR 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 Lao PDR 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 Lao PDR’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 Lao PDR? Are opinions improving or declining? 5. Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work: What do key stakeholders value the most regarding the WBG’s work in Lao PDR? What opinion do key stakeholders have of WBG financial instruments and knowledge products? Are opinions improving or declining? What are stakeholders’ suggestions for improving WBG’s effectiveness? 6. Communication and Outreach: What are the preferred communication channels? Are there differences among stakeholder groups in terms of preferred channels? 7. Message Recall: What key topics do stakeholders recall when the WBG communicates? Is there a relationship between message recall and views of the WBG’s work? 4 Methodology Overview Government Institution 44% ▪ Fielded January – May 2024 ▪ 629 potential participants were asked to complete a mostly Private Sector 13% quantitative survey ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online or received the Academia / Research Centers 9% questionnaire via courier and returned it accordingly ▪ List of names provided by the WBG country team and supplemented by the field agency Bilateral / Multilateral Agency 9% ▪ Process managed on the ground by the field agency Local Government 8% ▪ 384 participants (61% response rate) Civil Society Organization 6% ▪ 89% from the Vientiane Capital area ▪ 75% currently collaborate with the WBG Media 4% ▪ Compared to FY21 Country Survey Office of the President/PM/Minister 3% ▪ 527 participants (67% response rate) ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online or received the Other 2% questionnaire via courier and returned it accordingly ▪ 52% collaborated with the WBG Office of a Parliamentarian (National 2% Assembly, Legislative body) 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=383) 5 6 Overall Context “The World Bank should understand Laos' geographical position and international policy stance to provide effective policy advice.” (Government Principal Respondent) “The WBG should support more financial resources for poverty eradication in Laos in the form of soft loans and grants and technical support for agriculture, agro-processing, agricultural value chain, and marketing. It is also very important to support rural infrastructure such as rural roads, irrigation, and water supply to rural poor communities.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Lao PDR? (N=383) Significantly Improved Familiarity with the World Bank ▪ Year comparison: Respondents in this year’s Country All Respondents 7.2 Survey reported significantly higher levels of familiarity with the World Bank compared to respondents in the FY21 Survey: Office of the 7.9 Mean familiarity: FY24 = 7.2 President/PM/Minister FY21 = 5.7 Government Institutions 7.9 ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who indicated Bilateral /Multilateral Agency 7.6 that they collaborate with the WBG reported significantly higher levels of familiarity with the institution’s work: Civil Society 7.0 Mean familiarity: Collaborate with WBG = 7.7 Do not collaborate = 5.7 Private Sector 6.6 ▪ Stakeholders: Respondents from the office of the Academia 6.3 President/PM/Minister and government institutions indicated the highest levels of familiarity with the WBG, whereas respondents from the media reported significantly lower levels Local Government 6.0 of familiarity with its work. Media 5.7 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 Lao PDR? 7 Q Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Very familiar *Significant differences between stakeholder groups Stakeholders Most Familiar with the WBG ▪ Respondents in this year’s Country Survey were asked to indicate their familiarity with the work of several international World Bank Group 7.2 organizations and the World Bank Group. Of these organizations, respondents in Lao PDR indicated the highest levels of familiarity with the work of the WBG, followed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the United Nations (UN). Asian Development Bank 6.2 (ADB) Respondents were least familiar with the work of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) in Lao PDR. United Nations 6.1 European Union 5.6 International Monetary Fund 5.0 Asian Infrastructure Investment 3.4 Bank (AIIB) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Familiarity 8 Q How familiar are you with the work of these organizations in Lao PDR? Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Very familiar The WBG was the Most World Bank Group* 8.2 7.9 Trusted Institution 7.8 United Nations 7.7 Respondents in Lao PDR gave the highest ratings of trust for the WBG, the UN, and the national government. Of 7.8 National government note, ratings of trust for the WBG and civil society were 7.6 significantly improved in FY24 compared to the FY21 survey. At the same time, the trust ratings in the regional development Bilateral organizations (e.g. 7.7 AusAID, JICA, GIZ, KOICA) 7.7 banks decreased significantly. 7.7 Despite significantly improved ratings compared to the FY21 National Assembly survey, civil society was still the least trusted institution studied. Regional development banks (e.g. 7.5 ADB, AIIB)* 7.8 FY24 ▪ Regarding trust in the WBG, respondents from the office FY21 of the President/PM/Minister had the highest ratings of 7.4 Bank of the Lao PDR trust in the WBG (mean = 8.6). In contrast, media 7.4 respondents had significantly lower trust ratings (means = 6.9). 7.3 Academia / research centers 7.3 International Monetary Fund 7.3 7.2 Local government 6.9 Civil society* 6.5 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 Lao PDR? Mean Rating of Trust Q Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much *Significant differences between years 9 10 Overall Attitudes toward the World Bank Group “WB should focus more on governance and accountability tied to its financing and promote this across its works.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent) “The World Bank's technical and financial support has significantly improved forest management and development in Laos.” (Government Institutions Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Lao PDR? (N=383) Key Performance Indicators Remain Positive In FY24, respondents gave high ratings for the WBG’s 8.1 Relevant role in development relevance to development in Lao PDR, alignment with 7.9 their development priorities for the country, its positive influence on shaping development policy, and the WBG’s effectiveness in helping Lao PDR achieve development 7.9 Aligned with development results. priorities 7.9 Positive influence on shaping 7.9 development policy FY24 7.7 FY21 Effectiveness in helping Lao PDR 7.8 achieve results^ 7.6 7.6 Helps end poverty in Lao PDR 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Lao PDR. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Mean Rating The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Lao PDR. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in Lao PDR. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work helps end poverty in Lao PDR. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree How effective is the WBG in helping Lao PDR 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 Lao PDR. Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective; To what extent does the WBG’s work help to achieve development results i n Lao PDR? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree The WBG’s work helps end poverty in Laos. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 11 8.6 The Academia and 8.5 8.3 Trust in the WBG* 8.1 Government Respondents 7.7 7.5 8.5 Have More Positive Views of 8.2 8.3 Office of the President/PM/Minister the WBG Relevant role in development* 7.7 8.3 8.5 Government 7.5 Institutions 8.1 Comparisons of ratings for key performance indicators Local Government 8.1 between stakeholder groups show that the academia and 8.2 government respondents tended to give higher ratings for Effectiveness in helping Lao 7.9 7.2 many key indicators of the WBG’s performance. PDR achieve results* 6.9 Bilateral /Multilateral 6.8 Agency Respondents from the private sector and civil society 8.1 reported significantly lower ratings, particularly in their 8.1 Civil Society perceptions of the WBG’s effectiveness and positive 8.2 Aligned with development 8.3 influence. 8.3 priorities* 7.6 6.9 Private Sector 7.8 8.1 8.0 Academia Positive influence on shaping 8.3 8.0 development policy* 7.1 7.2 8.2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating Q For question wording and scales, please see the previous slide. *Significant differences between stakeholder groups 12 Familiarity Leads to More Positive Perceptions 8.6 Comparing ratings of key performance indicators among Trust in the WBG* 7.7 respondents highly familiar with the WBG (ratings of 8- 7.2 10 on a 10-point scale) and those with little familiarity with the WBG (ratings of 1-4 on a 10-point scale), one 8.6 can see that the more familiar stakeholders are with the Relevant role in development* 7.7 WBG, the more positive their perceptions of it and its work are. 7.3 8.3 Meaningful engagement and outreach can continue Aligned with development priorities* 7.5 to increase positive perceptions. 7.3 8.2 Effectiveness in helping Lao PDR 7.4 achieve results* 6.6 8.2 Positive influence on shaping 7.5 development policy* 7.3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating How familiar are you with the work of the WBG in Lao PDR? 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 Lao PDR? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much *Significant differences between Q The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in Lao PDR. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree levels of familiarity The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Lao PDR. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Lao PDR. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree How effective is the WBG in helping Lao PDR achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective 13 Lao PDR’s Key Performance Indicators are Notably Higher than those of other EAP and IDA Countries Surveyed in FY24 8.2 Trust in the WBG 7.7 6.9 8.1 Relevant role in development 7.7 7.0 Lao PDR FY24 7.9 Aligned with development priorities 7.5 Other East Asia 6.7 and Pacific FY24 7.9 Other IDA FY24 Positive influence on shaping 7.4 development policy 6.8 7.8 Effectiveness in helping achieve 7.4 results 7.0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating Other FY24 East Asia and Pacific countries: Cambodia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vietnam Q Other FY24 IDA countries: Benin, Bhutan, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Chad, Comoros, Guinea-Bissau, Lesotho, Maldives, Mauritania, Senegal, Solomon Islands, 14 Somalia, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Togo, and Zambia. Stakeholder Trends across Performance Indicators Respondents from the office of the President/PM/Minister All Respondents 7.7 had the highest mean rating across the aggregated responses to the nineteen COS indicator questions. In Office of the contrast, the private sector respondents had significantly 8.1 President/PM/Minister lower ratings. Government Institutions 8.0 ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who indicated that they collaborate with the WBG gave significantly higher ratings across the aggregated Local Government 7.9 indicator questions compared to respondents who do not collaborate with the WBG: Bilateral /Multilateral Agency 7.8 Mean rating: Collaborate with WBG = 7.8 Do not collaborate = 7.2 Academia 7.6 Media 7.2 Civil Society 7.1 Private Sector 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’s Support for Development Areas “Bring international experts to Laos to advance education by developing digital and modern teaching and learning methods. Introduce curriculum focused on logistics, human resource management, and higher education programs at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels.” (Private Sector Respondent) “Prioritize support for initiatives that significantly contribute to development, particularly those that stimulate economic recovery during crises.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Lao PDR? (N=383) Development Areas Education 52% for WBG Focus Macroeconomic stability Jobs/ Skills development 37% 41% As in FY21, education was the top area where stakeholders would Agriculture / food security 37% like the WBG to focus its resources in FY24. Macroeconomic stability was the #2 priority in FY24. Transport infrastructure was Transport infrastructure 34% of much greater priority in FY24, identified by more than four times Environment / natural resource management 30% as many respondents compared to FY21 (8%), becoming the #5 development priority in Lao PDR. Trade and competitiveness 24% Debt management 24% Climate change was also of much greater priority, identified as a top High for bilateral/ multilateral priority by more than three times as many respondents in FY24 as in Public sector governance 22% respondents(63%) FY21. Private sector development 19% Tourism development 19% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Lao PDR? Climate change 18% “In addition to investing in infrastructure, transportation, water supply, Digital infrastructure development 18% High for media and food production, developing personnel to promote technical respondents(36%) skills, health, education, and trade.” (Local Government Respondent) Health / pandemic preparedness 17% Disaster risk management 16% “Prioritize increased investment in education and public health. .” (Office of President/PM/Minister Respondent) Social protection 12% Water / sanitation 11% “Develop human resources, especially by enhancing the quality of educational institutions, to provide society with qualified personnel.” Social inclusion (e.g. gender and racial 11% equity) (Academia Respondent) Urban development 10% Energy 9% Gender equity 4% Which areas should the WBG prioritize to have the most impact on development results in Lao 17 Q PDR? (Select up to 5) (Percentage of Respondents, N=378) Effectiveness of WBG’s Support in Sectoral Areas The WBG’s work in agriculture and food security received the highest Finance / Institutions / Economic Growth effectiveness ratings. Of note, respondents in this year’s survey rated the WBG’s work in many sectoral areas significantly lower than in FY21. Regional integration* 7.0 7.8 6.9 Human Development Trade* 7.3 7.1 6.9 Gender equity* Public sector governance* 7.6 7.7 6.9 FY24 7.1 Private sector development Education* 7.9 7.1 FY21 6.8 7.0 FY24 Macroeconomic stability Health* 7.7 FY21 6.7 Debt sustainability 6.8 Social inclusion* 7.3 6.7 Job creation / employment* 7.3 6.5 Social protection* 7.0 Infrastructure Environmental Sustainability 7.0 Transport* 7.5 7.2 Agriculture and food security* 7.7 Water supply and sanitation 7.0 infrastructure* 7.6 Environment / natural resource 7.1 FY24 6.5 management* 7.5 Energy / extractives* FY21 7.5 FY24 *Significant differences 7.0 FY21 Climate change* between years 6.5 7.4 Digital development* 7.4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Effectiveness 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Effectiveness How effective has the WBG been at achieving development results in each of these areas in Lao PDR? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective Q (If you have NO exposure to/experience in working in any of the sectors listed below, please respond “Don’t know”) 18 19 World Bank Group’s Engagement on the Ground in Lao PDR “Engagement with more nongovernmental and locally based stakeholders or stakeholders with local understanding and knowledge, such as CSOs, networks, etc.” (Civil Society Respondent) “Be more flexible and tailor the assistance to the country's needs. Be the focal agency to collaborate with other Development Partners to help the country in the most effective, productive, and understanding manner.” (Government Principal Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Lao PDR? (N=383) The WBG Remained as an Effective Partner In FY24, respondents continued to perceive the as a long- term partner who is open, responsive, accessible, and flexible, as in FY21. Being a long-term partner to 8.4 Laos 8.5 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Lao PDR? Openness (sharing data and 7.7 “In my opinion, the World Bank Group should cooperate with other information) 7.5 the local authorities before selecting projects to ensure that the implementation results are highly effective and suitable for the tourism situation of the Lao People's Democratic Republic.” (Local Government Respondent) Responsiveness to needs in 7.7 Laos FY24 7.5 “Quick coordination, being a good consultant, providing good FY21 information, having good knowledge-ability in their duties, and being highly responsible.” (Academia Respondent) Access to WBG staff and 7.3 experts 7.2 “To increase effectiveness in Laos, the WBG should try to design an assistance program that helps to implement the national social-economic development plan as well as each ministry's strategic plan. “ Flexibility when circumstances 7.2 (Government Institution Respondent) change in Laos^ 7.1 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 20 ^Compared to the mean of institutional flexibility and flexibility to changes in country context asked in FY21. The WBG Keeps Effectively Collaborating with Stakeholders 8.2 National government 8.1 In FY24, respondents perceived that the WBG continued to collaborate effectively with the national government, other Other donors and development partners, and the private sector as in FY21. development partners (e.g. 7.8 However, the ratings of the WBG as an effective partner UN, ADB, AIIB, JICA, GIZ, 7.7 collaborating with civil society significantly decreased. KOICA) 7.7 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Academia / research centers could do to help increase its effectiveness in Lao PDR? “The WB must seek mutual understanding with the Lao government on the long-term implications of the projects it plans 7.5 National Assembly to implement. The government must show commitment at a FY24 higher level and know the risks and responsibilities beyond the FY21 project life cycle. WB must inform the government that it must be willing to continue with the world after any project ends. This 7.4 Local government is because, most of the time, the project fails to fulfill its objectives after it ends, and the government does not want to spend any money it used to receive from the project..” (Civil Society Respondent) 7.2 Private sector 7.0 “Establish mechanisms to ensure stronger coordination with local stakeholders/communities/partners.” (Government Institution Respondent) Civil society (e.g. NGOs, non- 7.0 profit organizations)* 7.3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Lao PDR, in terms of collaborating with the following Q groups? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree *Significant differences between years 21 Stakeholders want the Bank to Collaborate More with Local Government Respondents in this year’s survey indicated that, besides its Local government 28% partnership with the national government, the WBG should collaborate more with local governments, bilateral Bilateral organizations 26% organizations, academia, and the private sector. Academia / research 26% centers In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Lao Private sector 26% PDR? “I would like the World Bank Group to cooperate with local Bank of the Lao PDR 20% High for the office of the communities to see the condition of the city, village, and President/PM/ people's living conditions to make the activities Minister(42%) Other donors and and media implemented and built to be used with maximum effect, 20% development partners respondents(50 sustainable, and save the budget. That is, the World Bank %) Group should look at the current condition of the people in Regional development the village and the increase in the number of people in the 13% banks (e.g. ADB, AIIB) various villages and then allocate the activities suitable for the village.” National Assembly 12% (Local Government Respondent) “Regular exchange experience and coordination with Civil society 11% development partners, multiple aid agencies (AusAID, EU..etc), and UN agencies.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent) The United Nations 10% Other 1% In addition to its partnership with the national government, which of the following Q should the WBG collaborate with more to have greater impact in Lao PDR? (Select up to 2) (Percentage of Respondents, N=363) 22 23 World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work “Consider providing grants for further development of the water and sanitation sector of the Lao PDR, both in terms of infrastructure and capacity building for both central and local staff.” (Government Institutions Respondent) “I think WBG has been doing a great job. However, if WBG provides technical support on legal documents or policy formation, it would be good to help Laos implement them as the government may not have sufficient budget to do so.” (Bilateral / Multilateral Agency Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Lao PDR? (N=383) Financial Resources Considered the Bank’s Financial resources 58% Greatest Value Technical assistance and 46% implementation support In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Lao Capacity development and training 36% Of more value PDR? to media respondents (71%) “Help improve the financial aspect, reduce inflation, work on the environment and climate change, and improve various Knowledge and analytical products 25% Of more value to policies to be realistic and effective.” bilateral/multilateral (Civil Society Respondent) respondents (77%) “Standard terms and conditions for accessing funding.” Mobilizing third party financial 10% (Government Institution Respondent) resources “Provide financial support to government officials to enhance revenue collection, customs, and tax processes Convening / bringing together different through the implementation of modern technology and 9% groups of stakeholders digital tools.” (Government Principal Respondent) Donor coordination 8% Other 1% Which WBG instruments do you VALUE the most in Lao PDR? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N= 379) 24 WBG Seen as Effectively Monitoring/Evaluating Projects, and Increasingly More Timely in its Lending The WBG effectively monitors and Regarding the WBG’s financial instruments, respondents highly 7.9 evaluates the projects it supports agreed that the WBG financially effectively monitors and in Laos 7.9 evaluates its projects. The WBG’s ratings provide financial support in a timely manner and have significantly improved 7.6 The WBG insists on accountability since FY21. through its lending ▪ Of note, respondents from the private sector had significantly lower levels of agreement that the conditions of The WBG’s financial instruments 7.6 the WBG’s financing are competitive compared to meet the needs of Laos 7.4 respondents from other stakeholder groups (mean =6.1). The WBG’s Environmental and 7.5 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Social Framework requirements could do to help increase its effectiveness in Lao PDR? are reasonable 7.7 FY24 FY21 “If possible, I would like the World Bank to have an independent The conditions of the WBG’s 7.5 audit unit that can audit and participate in all critical activities of financing are competitive government projects that use World Bank grants/funds, compared to markets especially activities related to procurement/purchasing and construction of infrastructure to ensure that Lao PDR, as well as The WBG’s conditions on its 7.4 the Lao people, are benefited effectively and appropriately with lending are reasonable 7.6 the money invested, in order to ensure the transparency and avoid the creation of additional debt and benefit a specific group of people.” The WBG provides financial 7.4 (Government Institution Respondent) support in a timely manner*^ 6.9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q ^Compared to "The World Bank Group disburses funds promptly" in FY21 *Significant differences between years 25 74% of Respondents Used the WBG’s Knowledge Work; Perceptions are Positive The WBG’s knowledge work make a 8.1 Respondents had the highest levels of agreement that significant contribution to development the WBG’s knowledge work makes a significant results in Laos 8.0 contribution to development results in Laos and the WBG brings global expertise to Laos as part of its The WBG brings global expertise to Laos 8.0 knowledge work. Overall, respondents reported very as part of its knowledge work^ 8.1 positive ratings regarding the WBG’s knowledge work, while the lowest ratings were given to that the WBG’s I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s 7.9 publications are translated enough into local language knowledge work in Laos Working with the WBG increases Laos’ 7.9 In your opinion, what is the most important thing institutional capacity 7.9 the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Lao PDR? FY24 The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to 7.6 “Promote/support capacity development in organizational Laos’ context^^ 7.6 FY21 administration and management.” (Academia Respondent) When I need to consult the WBG’s 7.4 knowledge work, I know how to find it “Produce timely research / analytics and then actively engage policy makers so that the research is understood The WBG’s publications are adequately 7.1 by the Lao Government and other bilateral donors, who disseminated 7.3 make financing decisions. In the past, I see a lot of research sit on the WB website without proactive The WBG’s publications are translated 7.0 dissemination.” enough into local language(s) 6.8 (Bilateral / Multilateral Agency 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 Lao PDR? Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant ^Compared to "Are a source of relevant information on global good practices" asked in FY21. 26 ^^Compared to "Are adaptable to Lao PDR’s specific development challenges and country circumstances" in FY21 27 The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Lao PDR “To be more flexible with the new changing situation.” (Local Government Respondent) “When the research and economic analysis results are out, they should be implemented with a model project to see more tangible results.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Lao PDR? (N=383) How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses Enhance local capacity, standard funding conditions, and better align with Lao PDR’s needs. • Education and health Focus Area • Infrastructure, including digital Communication • Adapt local language and target a 26%* development broader audience • Agriculture 4% • Increase the visibility of WBG’s work Communication • Public sector governance Results Focus Operational Area • Enhance central and local government Effectiveness Knowledge capacity • Robust M&E, effectively monitor the 25% • Provide more training and technical support Results WBG’s ongoing projects • More policy dialogue 8% • Address its governance and Financial accountability Support • Collaborate more with Ministries as well • Greater transparency Engagement as local government, for better needs 15% assessment and achieve project Knowledge Engagement objectives • Diversify partnerships and focus on Operational • Better alignment with country needs accountable implementation among and government plans partners Effectiveness • Simplify processes, develop standard Financial • Standard terms and conditions 9% terms and regulatory framework • Facilitate low-interest loans and the timely Support provision of funds 14% • Support for grants or loans to help enhance the effectiveness In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Lao PDR? (N=383) Q *All percentages are counted based on the total number of topics mentioned by the respondents; individual comments could be counted multiple times depending on the number of topics they cover. 28 How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses Enhance local capacity, standard funding conditions, and better align with Lao PDR’s needs. Focus Area Knowledge “All sectors are important. It is vital to increase efficiency in developing education and “More policy dialogue on debt sustainability” (Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent) infrastructure and creating jobs to prevent workers from leaving the country. Public health should be easily accessible and controlled throughout the country to ensure good health, which is essential for national development. Efforts should also be made to improve the “Advocate for: 1. policy changes at local and national levels to address systemic issues, production of goods, agriculture, and animal husbandry, boost the commercial economy creating an enabling environment and level playing field for all businesses; 2. Sound and production for export, and provide opportunities for people of all genders and ages.” macroeconomic policies that promote fiscal discipline, monetary stabilities and debt (Government Institution Respondent) management_ provide TA to government officials to enhance their capacity in “To me, the most important thing is to help Laos manage public debts owed to foreign macroeconomic analysis and policy formulation.” countries. The World Bank should provide policy advice, ensuring that the government does (Civil Society Respondent) not create more debt for the country. The World Bank can assist in infrastructure development and good governance, which are essential to promoting economic growth in “Support the creation of trade policies and business growth through appropriate policy Laos.” (Media Respondent) support”. (Government Institution Respondent) Engagement “Should increase the utilization of Lao National Experts in the development projects funded by the WBG, as some international consultants recruited under the projects are more specialized in theories, and sometimes their experience is too ambitious to apply to Laos' conditions.” (Government Institution Respondent) “The WBG should work closely with the agency partners. The regulations and conditions of being staff under the WBG have already been applied to those partner agencies, but those agencies didn't follow them.” (Government Institution Respondent) “To strengthen the collaboration with donors and UN agencies as well as to investigate more with private sectors.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent) In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Q could do to help increase its effectiveness in Lao PDR? (N=383) 29 How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses Enhance local capacity, standard funding conditions, and better align with Lao PDR’s needs. Operation Effectiveness Financial Support “Considering and approving the activities of the project to be faster and with clear targets “Impose restrictions and principles in financial management activities to prevent any negative for the implementation of the work to be completed according to the plan.” effects from spreading” (Academia Respondent) (Government Institution Respondent) “Support the loan budget and grants, additional technical support for the promotion of Lao PDR's infrastructure.” (Government Institution Respondent) “Simplify processes.” (Private Sector Respondent) “Provide support for grants or loans to help enhance the effectiveness of each project in the “1. Improve working procedures with local people of Lao PDR Lao PDR more effectively.” (Government Institution Respondent) 2. Improve the measures/regulations of the World Bank to be applied to the local areas of Lao PDR ….” (Government Institution Respondent) Results “The use of words that are directed and connected to reality.” “Development and economic growth in Laos need to focus on quality, fairness, transparency, SMEs (Government Institution Respondent) and people.” (Private Sector Respondent) “Significant reduce processes for lending and providing grants. Monitor tools should fit with “Continue to support the country on result base financing loke Disbursement Link Indicators (DLI)” Laos context.” (Civil Society Respondent) (Government Institution Respondent) “Investing with specific goals and periodically monitoring your progress are important indicators for evaluation over time.” (Government Institution Respondent) Communication “WBG could be more engaging and address publications by third-party groups or organizations that misuse World Bank data or quotes to spread misinformation in the mainstream or social media. We, the Lao media, have close contact with the local staff, but we still see many areas of improvement that we can work on together.” (Media Respondent) “Improve processes and more visibility in achievements in Lao PDR” (Private Sector Respondent) In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Q could do to help increase its effectiveness in Lao PDR? (N=383) 30 31 Communication and Outreach “Increase communication about the activities of the World Bank through more and more channels and regularly such as Social Media, 3rd Party Media Online.” (Private Sector Respondent) “The World Bank's funding standards should be widely disseminated to all relevant sectors.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Lao PDR? (N=383) Events and Direct Contact were Most Preferred for Receiving WBG Communication Respondents most preferred to receive communications through events/conferences/seminars/workshops (in person or online) and direct contact from the WBG. Civil society and media respondents preferred social media significantly more than the other groups. Preferred WBG Source Office of the Bilateral All President/PM/M Government Local /Multilateral Private Respondents inister Institutions Government Agency Civil Society Sector Academia Media Event / conference / seminar / 58.6% 33.3% 63.6% 62.1% 62.5% 50.0% 50.0% 61.8% 42.9% workshop (in person or online) Direct contact with staff (e.g. in 46.4% 58.3% 57.0% 27.6% 53.1% 36.4% 28.6% 29.4% 42.9% person, virtually, phone, email)* e-Newsletters* 30.4% 25.0% 23.6% 31.0% 53.1% 22.7% 33.3% 44.1% 14.3% Social media (e.g. Facebook, 28.5% 33.3% 22.4% 37.9% 3.1% 63.6% 33.3% 35.3% 50.0% Twitter)* Direct messaging (e.g. 18.2% 25.0% 20.6% 24.1% 6.3% 13.6% 21.4% 8.8% 28.6% WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Other 2.5% 0.0% 2.4% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 7.1% 5.9% 0.0% How would you prefer to receive communication from the WBG? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=362) *Significant differences between stakeholder groups 32 7 in 10 Saw or Heard WBG-related Messages Recently, most often through Events or Direct Contact with Staff 73% 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) and direct contact. Event / conference / seminar (in 62% person or online) Direct contact with WBG staff 54% WBG websites 51% Social media 46% High for office of No President/PM/Minister(8 27% 6%) and media Newspapers (print or online) 40% respondents (90%). Do you recall Direct messaging 21% seeing or hearing anything about Television (TV) 19% the WBG recently? e-Newsletters 14% Yes Radio 14% 73% Other 3% Podcasts 3% Blogs 3% Do you recall seeing or hearing anything about the WBG recently? (N=361) Q Where do you recall seeing or hearing this information? (Select all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=265) 33 WBG’s Economic Forecasts and Its Work on Climate Change were the Most Commonly Recalled Topics Respondents most frequently recalled WBG economic forecasts and its work or research on climate change, followed by debt WBG economic forecasts 59% relief for developing countries and food security. Climate change 52% ▪ Respondents from media and academia were significantly Debt relief for developing countries 38% more likely to recall WBG’s work on food security (70% and 64%, respectively ) than respondents from other stakeholder Food security 38% groups. Ending poverty in developing ▪ Respondents from media were the most likely to recall WBG’s countries 37% work on the digital economy (60%), whereas respondents from Job creation / employment 34% academia and bilateral/multilateral agencies were significantly less likely (7% and 10%, respectively). Women empowerment 30% ▪ Respondents from the office of President/PM/Minister and media were the most likely to recall WBG’s work on human Human capital 23% capital(57% and 50%, respectively). In contrast, respondents Changes to the WBG financial and 22% from local government and civil society were significantly less operational model likely 12% and 13%, respectively). Digital economy 21% ▪ Respondents from local government offices and academia were the most likely to recall WBG’s work on youth Youth development 20% development(41% and 43%, respectively). In contrast, Pandemic preparedness 18% respondents from civil society and the private sector were significantly less likely (6% and 12%, respectively). Other 5% If you answered “Yes” for E2, what topics were included in what you saw or heard about WBG’s work or research? 34 Q (Select all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=264) Climate Change Communications can be More Impactful when Related to Stakeholders’ Top Concerns: Air Pollution and Land Degradation The majority of respondents were very concerned about air pollution when it came to the potential impacts of climate change in Lao PDR. Land and forest degradation were also of great concern to respondents. These key areas of concern should be considered to make communications about climate change more impactful. Very concerned Somewhat concerned A little concerned Not concerned at all Air pollution 72% Land and forest degradation 64% More frequent and severe droughts 61% Decreased crop yields / increased food insecurity 60% More frequent and severe floods 60% Decreased water availability / quality 58% Loss of jobs 58% More frequent and intense wild fires 56% More frequent and severe heatwaves 52% Extinction of plant / animal species 48% Increased erosion of riverbanks 45% Climate-driven migration 37% Q How concerned are you about the following potential impacts of climate change in Lao PDR? (Percentage of Respondents, N=~362) 35 Message Recall Increases Familiarity and Leads to More Positive Perceptions of the WBG and its Work 7.6 Familiarity with the WBG* 6.2 8.3 Relevant role in development* 7.7 Do you recall seeing or hearing anything 8.3 about the WBG Trust the WBG to do what is right for Lao PDR* recently? 7.9 8.1 Yes Aligned with development priorities* 7.4 No 8.0 Positive influence on shaping development policy 7.6 7.9 Effective in helping Lao PDR achieve development results* 7.3 7.8 The WBG’s work helps end poverty in Lao PDR* 7.1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating These findings suggest that respondents who are more frequently exposed to information about the WBG or who actively engage with WBG staff and knowledge work (read research papers, etc.) are also more likely to hold more positive views about the WBG’s work. How familiar are you with the work of the World Bank Group in Lao PDR? Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Extremely familiar How much do you trust the WBG to do what is right for Lao PDR? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much Q Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree: The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Lao PDR. The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in Lao PDR. The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priori ties for Lao PDR. 36 How effective is the WBG in helping Lao PDR achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective 37 Sample Demographics and Detailed Methodology Sample Demographics What is the primary specialization of your work? (N=359) No Private sector development / trade 13% Do you 25% Environment / natural resource collaborate/work 13% management with the World Bank Macroeconomics, fiscal / debt Group (WBG) 12% management in Lao PDR? Agriculture and food security 10% Yes (N=381) 75% Education 9% Public sector governance 8% Generalist (specialize in multiple 6% sectors) Energy 6% MIGA ICSID, 2% Other 5% 4% Water / sanitation 4% Which of the IFC following WBG 29% Health / pandemic preparedness 3% agencies do you Social protection 2% collaborate/work with in Lao PDR? Digital development 2% (N=279) World Bank Percentages equal more than 100% (IDA) Climate change 2% because respondents could choose 92% multiple agencies within the WBG. Transport 2% Urban development 1% 38 Sample Demographics (continued) Prefer not to What’s your age? (N=363) specify, 2% 25 or younger 1% Female 26-35 9% 29% 36-45 37% What is your gender? 46-55 29% (N=363) 56 and above 20% Male 69% Prefer not to specify 2% Vientiane Capital 89% Which best represents Provincial capital 7% your geographic location? (N=360) District town 2% Other town or village 1% 39 Detailed Methodology Percentage of Respondents FY 2021 FY 2024 From January to May 2024, a total of 629 stakeholders in Lao PDR were invited to Government Principals: Office of the provide their opinions on the WBG’s work by participating in a Country Opinion Survey President, Prime Minister, Minister, 3% 5% Parliamentarian (COS). A list of potential participants was compiled by the WBG country team and the field agency. Participants were drawn from the Offices of the President, Prime Minister, Minister, Government Institutions: Employee of a and Parliament, government institutions, local governments, bilateral or multilateral Ministry, Department, Project Implementation 51% 44% Unit, Independent Government Institution, agencies, the private sector, civil society, academia, and the media. Judiciary, State-Owned Enterprise Of these stakeholders, 384 participated in the survey (61% response rate). Local Government 5% 8% Respondents completed the questionnaire online or during face-to-face interviews with field agency representatives. Bilateral/Multilateral Agency: Embassy, Development Organization, Development Bank, 11% 9% This year’s survey results were compared to the FY21 Survey, which had a UN Agency response rate of 67% (N=527). Civil Society Organization: Local and Comparing responses across Country Surveys reflects changes in attitudes over time and regional NGOs, Community-Based changes in respondent samples, methodology, and the survey instrument. To reduce the Organization, Private Foundation, 7% 6% Professional/Trade Association, influence of the latter factor, only those questions with similar response scales/options were Faith-Based Group, Youth Group analyzed. These differences in stakeholder composition between the two years should be considered when interpreting the results of the past-year comparison analyses. Private Sector: Private Company, Financial 13% 13% Sector Organization, Private Bank Key statistically significant findings (tested at the research standard of p < .05) are noted throughout the report. Academia / Research Center 7% 9% Breakdowns for individual questions by stakeholder group can be found in the “Lao PDR COS FY24 Appendices with data breakdowns.xlsx” file published in the WBG Microdata Media 3% 4% Library, along with the survey microdata and this report. Other 2% 2% Total Number of Respondents* 518 383 What is your primary professional affiliation? (Select only 1 response) Q *Not all respondents provided information about their professional affiliation. Therefore, the total number of respondents listed in the table is lower than the N reported in the methodology. 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 Lao PDR? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much A2. How effective is the World Bank Group in helping Lao PDR 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 Lao PDR? 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 Lao PDR. A5. The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Lao PDR. A6. The WBG has a positive influence on shaping development policy in Lao PDR. A7. The WBG’s work helps end poverty in Lao PDR 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 Lao PDR C1_2. Access to WBG staff and experts C1_3. Flexibility when circumstances change in Lao PDR C1_5. Being a long-term partner to Lao PDR To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Lao PDR, in terms of collaborating with the following groups? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree C2_1. National government C2_4. Private sector C2_5. Civil society C2_6. Other development partners To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree C4_1. The WBG’s financial instruments (i.e., loans, credits, grants, trust funds) meet the needs of Lao PDR. C4_5. The WBG provides financial support in a timely manner. C6_1. I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s knowledge work in Lao PDR. C6_4. The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to Lao PDR’s context. 41 Thank you For more information about this report or the Country Opinion Survey program, please contact: countrysurveys@worldbankgroup.org