FY 2024 Georgia Country Opinion Survey Report ECR Business Intelligence Team | February 2024 Acknowledgements The Georgia 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 Georgia country team and independent fielding agency, LTD ACT. In particular, BI is grateful for the support from Irma Gegechkori (Senior External Affairs Officer), Tamuna Namicheishvili (Operations Analyst), and Tiko Zurabishvili (External Affairs Consultant) who coordinated the survey-related activities from Tbilisi, Georgia. 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 Georgia World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Georgia Communication and Outreach Sample Demographics and Detailed Methodology 3 Objectives This survey was designed to assist the World Bank Group (WBG) in gaining a better understanding of how stakeholders in Georgia 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 Georgia’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 Georgia? Are opinions improving or declining? 5. Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work: What do key stakeholders value the most regarding the WBG’s work in Georgia? What opinion do key stakeholders have of WBG financial instruments and knowledge products? Are opinions improving or declining? What are stakeholders’ suggestions for improving WBG’s effectiveness? 6. Communication and Outreach: What are the preferred communication channels? Are there differences among stakeholder groups in terms of preferred channels? 7. Message Recall: What key topics that the WBG communicates do stakeholders recall? Is there a relationship between message recall and views of the WBG’s work? 4 Methodology Overview Government Institution 40% ▪ Fielded November 2023 – January 2024 ▪ 855 potential participants were asked to complete a mostly Civil Society Organization 15% quantitative survey ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online Bilateral or Multilateral Agency 13% ▪ List of names provided by the WBG country team and supplemented by the fielding agency ▪ Process managed on the ground by the fielding agency Private Sector 12% ▪ 226 participants (26% response rate) Academia / Research Center 7% ▪ 91% from Tbilisi ▪ 64% currently collaborate with the WBG Local Government 7% ▪ Compared to FY21 Country Survey Media 3% ▪ 332 participants (40% response rate) ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online Office of a Parliamentarian 2% ▪ 40% collaborated with the WBG Office of the President, Prime 2% Minister, Minister Click here for details of the Respondent Sample and Methodology. Which of the following best describes your current affiliation? Q (Select only 1 response) (Percentage of Respondents, N=226) 5 6 Overall Context “The World Bank Group can significantly improve its effectiveness in Georgia by prioritizing sustained engagement with local communities, fostering stronger collaboration among stakeholders, and developing solutions tailored to country-specific needs.” (Government Institution Respondent) “Support in policy development on central, regional, and local levels; effective monitoring system; support to civil society development; support in the education sector.” (Other Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Georgia? (N=97) Increased Familiarity with the World Bank ▪ Year comparison: Respondents in this year’s Country Survey reported significantly higher levels of familiarity with All Respondents 7.8 the World Bank compared to respondents in the FY21 Survey: Mean familiarity: FY24 = 7.8 Academia 8.6 FY21 = 6.9 ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who indicated Government Institution 8.5 that they collaborate with the WBG reported significantly higher levels of familiarity with the institution’s work: Bilateral or Multilateral Agency 7.2 Mean familiarity: Collaborate with WBG = 8.6 Do not collaborate = 6.3 Private Sector 7.1 ▪ Stakeholders: Respondents from academia/research centers and government institutions (including those from the offices of the President/Prime Minister/Minister) indicated significantly Civil Society 6.9 higher levels of familiarity with the WBG compared to respondents from other stakeholder groups, especially those from local government who reported the lowest levels of Local Government 6.6 familiarity with the work of the WBG. 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 Georgia? 7 Q Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Extremely familiar (N=226) Significant difference between stakeholder groups Stakeholders Most Familiar with the EU, WBG, and UN ▪ Respondents in this year’s Country Survey were asked to indicate their familiarity with the work of several international European Union 8.2 organizations in addition to the World Bank Group. Of these organizations, respondents in Georgia indicated the highest levels of familiarity with the work of the EU, followed by the WBG and the UN. Respondents were least familiar with the World Bank Group 7.8 work of the EIB and IMF in Georgia. United Nations 7.5 European Bank for Reconstruction and 6.9 Development (EBRD) European Investment Bank 6.5 (EIB) International Monetary Fund 6.5 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 Georgia? 8 Q Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Extremely familiar (N=226) All organizations Significant difference except EIB and IMF The WBG is the Most Trusted World Bank Group 8.4 8.2 Institution in Georgia 8.2 International Monetary Fund 7.9 Respondents in Georgia gave the highest ratings of trust for the World Bank Group, IMF, and the UN. Ratings of trust 7.9 United Nations were also high for academia and significantly improved in 7.8 FY24 for the private sector and civil society compared to the FY21 survey. 7.5 Academia / research centers Despite having significantly improved ratings compared to the 7.3 FY21 survey, government institutions in Georgia were Private sector * 6.7 among the least trusted among the institutions studied, including the national government, the National Bank of 7.2 Georgia, the Parliament, and the local government. Civil society* FY24 6.3 FY21 As in FY21, the media in Georgia was the least trusted 7.2 National government* institution according to respondents this year. 6.6 ▪ Of note, respondents from local government, government 7.0 National Bank of Georgia* institutions, and bilateral/multilateral agencies had the 6.4 highest ratings of trust in the WBG (means = 9.6, 8.6, and 6.6 8.4, respectively) whereas respondents from the private Parliament sector had significantly lower ratings of trust (mean = 7.7). 6.4 Local government* 5.6 5.6 Media 5.8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 How much do you trust each of the following institutions to do what is right for Georgia? Mean Rating of Trust Q Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much (FY24 N=~203; FY21 N=~271) *Significant difference between years 9 10 Overall Attitudes toward the World Bank Group “In my opinion, the most important thing is to share knowledge and experience, and in this way, the emergence of appropriate competence cadres in various fields, which will allow the country to achieve its goals, both in terms of economic and social, as well as in terms of establishing sustainable institutions.” (Government Institution Respondent) “More coordinated work with partners in Georgia. It is the identification of the country's needs and more concretization of aid and credits. More development of consulting work and promotion of the development of local analytical institutions.” (Academia Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Georgia? (N=97) Key Performance Indicators Remain Very Positive In FY24, respondents gave high ratings for the WBG’s Effectiveness in helping Georgia 8.4 effectiveness at helping Georgia to achieve development to achieve results^ results, its positive influence on shaping development 8.2 policy, alignment with their development priorities for the country (which was significantly improved compared to 8.4 FY21), the WBG’s relevance to development in Georgia, Positive influence on shaping and its work helping to end poverty. development policy Alignment with development 8.3 priorities* FY24 7.9 FY21 8.3 Relevant role in development 8.0 8.0 Ends poverty in Georgia 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Georgia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in Georgia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree *Significant difference The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Georgia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work helps end poverty in Georgia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree between years How effective is the WBG in helping Georgia 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 Georgia. Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective; To what extent does the WBG’s work help to achieve development resul ts in 11 Georgia? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree Stakeholders from 8.8 9.1 Government Have Positive influence on shaping development policy* 8.0 7.9 7.5 More Positive 8.3 Perceptions of WBG 8.7 8.9 Government 8.0 Institution Relevant role in development* Comparisons of ratings for key 7.7 performance indicators between 7.0 Local stakeholder groups show that 8.3 Government respondents from local government and 8.7 government institutions (including those 9.2 Bilateral/ from the offices of the President/Prime Alignment with development 8.0 Multilateral Minister/Minister) had the highest ratings Agency priorities* 7.8 for the WBG across all of these KPIs 7.3 Civil Society whereas respondents from private sector 8.2 had significantly lower ratings. 8.6 Private 9.1 Sector Effectiveness in helping 7.6 Q Georgia achieve results* 7.8 7.2 Academia The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the 7.9 development policy in Georgia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 8.6 The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Georgia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 9.6 The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the Trust the WBG to do what is 8.4 development priorities for Georgia. Scale: 1 Strongly right for Georgia* 8.1 *Significant disagree – 10 Strongly agree difference between 7.7 How effective is the WBG in helping Georgia achieve stakeholder groups development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very 8.1 effective 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 How much do you trust the WBG to do what is right for Georgia? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much Mean Rating 12 Familiarity Leads to More Positive Perceptions 8.9 Comparing ratings of key performance indicators among Trust the WBG to do what 7.6 respondents highly familiar with the WBG (ratings of 8- is right for Georgia* 7.6 10 on a 10-point scale) and those with little familiarity with the WBG (ratings of 1-4 on a 10-point scale), one 8.7 can see that the more familiar stakeholders are with the Positive influence on shaping 7.8 WBG, the more positive perceptions they have of the development policy* WBG and its work. 6.5 8.7 Meaningful engagement and outreach can continue Relevant role in development* 7.7 to increase positive perceptions. 5.9 8.7 Alignment with development 7.7 priorities* 6.3 8.5 Effectiveness in helping Georgia 7.6 to achieve results* 7.1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating How familiar are you with the work of the WBG in Georgia? 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 Georgia? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much *Significant difference between Q The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in Georgia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree levels of familiarity The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Georgia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Georgia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree How effective is the WBG in helping Georgia achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective 13 Georgia Outperforms FY23 ECA and IBRD Countries on Key Performance Indicators 8.4 Trust the WBG to do what is right 7.6 7.4 8.4 Positive influence on shaping 6.9 development policy 6.8 Georgia FY24 8.3 Alignment with development priorities 7.5 Europe & Central 7.2 Asia FY23 8.3 IBRD Relevant role in development 7.4 FY23 7.1 8.2 Effectiveness in helping to achieve 7.3 results 7.0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating FY23 Europe and Central Asia countries: Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyz Republic, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Türkiye, and Uzbekistan 14 Q FY23 IBRD countries: Albania, Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Egypt, Jamaica, Malaysia, Mongolia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, South Africa, and Türkiye Stakeholder Trends across Performance Indicators Respondents from local government and government institutions (including those from the offices of the All Respondents 8.2 President/Prime Minister/Minister) had the highest mean rating across the aggregated responses to the eighteen COS indicator questions whereas respondents from the Local Government 8.9 private sector had significantly lower ratings. ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who Government Institution 8.6 indicated that they collaborate with the WBG gave significantly higher ratings across the aggregated indicator questions compared to respondents who do not collaborate with the WBG: Academia/Research Center 8.0 Mean rating: Collaborate with WBG = 8.4 Civil Society 7.9 Do not collaborate = 7.8 Bilateral or Multilateral Agency 7.6 Private Sector 7.3 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 “Empower non-banking financial institutions, increase diversification in the financial sector, [allow] banking sector to promote innovations in the country. Focus on the education sector to improve education quality, which gives talent flow to private and government sectors, which ensures work effectiveness and productiveness of both sectors.” (Civil Society Respondent) “Promote the development of digital platforms, infrastructure development/creation, and significant changes in education systems, development of municipalities (education, infrastructure, local government, … training), expert assistance in important fields, and also the discovery of Georgian experts from important successful fields in Georgia.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Georgia? (N=97) Development Areas Education 62% for WBG Focus Regional development 46% Private sector development 32% As in FY21, education was the top area in which stakeholders would like the WBG to focus its resources in FY24. Regional Agriculture / food security 29% development was the #2 priority, being identified as a top priority Transport infrastructure 27% by four times as many respondents as in FY21. Climate change was also of much greater priority, identified by five times as many Digital infrastructure development 26% respondents to become the #7 development priority in Georgia. Climate change 26% ▪ It should be noted that private sector development (#3) was of more priority to respondents from civil society (52%), private Judiciary reform 25% sector (50%), and academia (44%) compared to respondents Jobs 23% from government institutions (20%) and local government (15%). Environment / natural resource 22% management Energy 21% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Georgia? Public sector governance 19% “Sustainable urban and regional development. Private sector support Disaster risk management 18% and vocational training/schools.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) Urban development 16% “I believe putting more emphasis on supporting private sector development, especially SMEs would be most beneficial for the Water / sanitation 15% Georgian economy.” (Private Sector Respondent) Health / pandemic preparedness 14% “Involvement in projects to be implemented in the local government Tourism development 13% (water supply systems, infrastructure, improvement and construction of schools and gardens, encouragement of economic development of Social protection 13% the population, etc.).” (Local Government Respondent) Gender equity 9% Debt management 7% Which areas should the WBG prioritize to have the most impact on development results in Georgia? 17 Q (Select up to 5) (Percentage of Respondents, N=219) Effectiveness of WBG’s Support in Sectoral Areas The WBG’s work in macroeconomic stability and the transport sector received the highest ratings of effectiveness. Of note, respondents from local government and Finance / Institutions / Economic Growth government institutions had significantly higher mean ratings across all of these 8.2 sectoral areas compared to respondents from other stakeholder groups. Macroeconomic stability 7.6 Human Development Regional integration 7.3 7.4 7.6 FY24 Education 7.3 Debt sustainability FY21 7.3 7.5 Health 7.7 Public sector governance 7.8 7.2 FY24 7.4 Gender equity Trade 7.1 FY21 7.0 Social protection 6.7 Infrastructure 6.9 Social inclusion 7.4 8.3 Transport 8.4 Environmental Sustainability Water supply and sanitation 7.8 7.5 7.6 Agriculture and food security 7.2 7.6 Digital development Environment / natural resource 7.5 7.3 management Urban development 7.6 FY24 7.2 FY24 Climate change 7.6 FY21 Energy / extractives 7.7 FY21 *Significant difference 7.1 7.5 Disaster risk management 6.7 between years Tourism development 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Effectiveness Mean Rating of Effectiveness How effective has the WBG been at achieving development results in each of these areas in Georgia? 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 Georgia “More intensified CSO and private sector engagement in planning and project implementation.” (Civil Society Respondent) “WB should work more closely with Academia. Use the technical assistance already developed there.” (Academia Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Georgia? (N=97) The WBG Increasingly Seen as an Effective Partner In FY24, respondents perceived the WBG significantly more as a long-term partner that was open, responsive to needs, accessible, and flexible than in FY21. Being a long-term partner to 9.2 Georgia* ▪ Respondents from local government and government 8.5 institutions (including those from the offices of the President/Prime Minister/Minister) had significantly higher mean ratings across these questions compared to Openness (sharing data and 8.5 respondents from other stakeholder groups. other information)* 7.5 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Georgia? Responsiveness to needs in 8.3 “1. Be honest in its dealings with government. 2. Be honest in Georgia* FY24 reporting the real status of the country to the Headquarters. 7.5 FY21 3. Work closely with business organizations and be open to criticism.” (Private Sector Respondent) Access to WBG staff and 8.2 “More flexibility in taking into account the country's interests. experts* Also, more openness and more contacts with academic circles.” 7.4 (Academia Respondent) “Taking into account the specifics of the existing local context Flexibility when circumstances 8.0 (social, economic, legislative, technological, and political) when change in Georgia* planning projects and defining relevant goals, at the level of the 6.9 state and sectoral and implementing organizations.” (Academia Respondent) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in terms of the following? Q Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree ^Compared to the mean of institutional flexibility 20 and flexibility to changes in country context asked in FY21. *Significant difference between years The WBG is Increasingly Being Recognized for Effectively Collaborating with Stakeholders In FY24, respondents perceived the WBG as collaborating 8.8 National government* significantly more with the national government, other 8.3 donors/development partners, the private sector, and civil society compared to FY21. Of note, compared to other 8.5 Other donors and stakeholder groups: development partners* 7.6 ▪ Respondents from the private sector had significantly lower ratings for the Bank’s collaboration with the national government, local government, Parliament, and private sector. 8.1 Parliament ▪ Respondents from civil society and bilateral/multilateral agencies had significantly lower ratings for the Bank’s collaboration with civil society. 7.9 Local government ▪ Respondents from bilateral/multilateral agencies had FY24 significantly lower ratings for the Bank’s collaboration with other FY21 donors compared to other stakeholder groups. 7.8 Private sector* ▪ Respondents from civil society, private sector, and academia 7.1 had significantly lower ratings for the Bank’s collaboration with academia compared to other stakeholder groups. 7.6 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Civil society* could do to increase its effectiveness in Georgia? 6.6 “I think the World Bank could be more effective in coordinating with other donors as well as other international funding Academia / 7.4 institutions so as not to duplicate efforts and also be more visible research centers with a wider range of stakeholders in terms of what it is actually doing/achieving in Georgia.” (Other Respondent) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Georgia, in terms of collaborating with the following Q groups? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree *Significant difference between years 21 Nearly Half of All Stakeholders want the Bank to Collaborate More with Private Sector Respondents in this year’s survey indicated that, in Top for private addition to its partnership with the national government, sector (80%) Private sector 47% the WBG should collaborate more with the private sector, civil society, and local government. Top for civil society (83%) Civil society 38% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Georgia? Top for Local government 36% “Strengthening of private-public cooperation. Consulting for the local government government and the private sector, mainly SMEs, to strengthen (89%) and increase the sustainability of their activities.” (Government Institution Respondent) Academia / Top for 28% research centers academia (92%) “Improving communication with the Parliament as the controlling body of the executive power. I think the views of Parliamentarians are especially important in the process of Other donors and determining the strategic direction of the country's development 24% High for development partners bilateral/ and further support policy (financial or human capital) from the multilaterals World Bank.” (Government Institution Respondent) (48%) “More involvement and active communication with local Parliament 19% High for government institutions (27%) government and its strengthening, since it is the link closest to and private sector the people, and it is through their strengthening that results are (25%) achieved, which is the basis of the country’s development.” (Local Government Respondent) Other 2% In addition to its partnership with the national government, which of the following should the WBG Q collaborate with more to have greater impact in Georgia? (Select up to 2) (Percentage of Respondents, N=192) 22 23 World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work “The most important thing is the detailed study of the specifics of Georgia in all areas where the World Bank carries out its activities and the adjustment of global projects to these specifics, as a necessary component of increasing the efficiency of the projects.” (Government Institution Respondent) “1. Support the creation of sustainable policies and monitor implementation. 2. Develop regulations to protect stakeholder interests. 3. Monitor key performance indicators.” (Private Sector Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Georgia? (N=97) Financial Resources and Financial resources (e.g., budget support, investment lending, 66% Technical Assistance/ grants, trust funds) Implementation Support Technical assistance and considered the Bank’s implementation support (incl. 46% project design and implementation) Greatest Values Knowledge and analytical products 32% Of more value (e.g., data, reports, policy notes) to bilateral / multilateral In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG agencies (54%) could do to increase its effectiveness in Georgia? “Raising awareness, introducing promotion mechanisms, Capacity development and training 20% focusing more on modern technologies, raising the qualification of personnel resources (on a large scale), mobilizing even more investment funds.” (Government Principal Respondent) Mobilizing third party financial “Helping to share and implement practice-based experiences.” resources (incl. both public and 12% Of more value to local private) government (46%) (Academia Respondent) “The engagement with the private sector should be enhanced. The cross-functional working groups and knowledge sharing is another important area. Furthermore, technical support for the Donor coordination 10% financial sector in implementing best international practices and innovative services will be beneficial for the institutions, as well as their customers (businesses, economic sectors which are financed, etc.).” (Private Sector Respondent) Convening / bringing together 4% different groups of stakeholders Which WBG instruments do you VALUE the most in Georgia? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=218) 24 The WBG’s Lending Is Increasingly Seen as More Positive, especially in Meeting Georgia’s Needs In terms of the WBG’s financial instruments, respondents had the highest levels of agreement that the WBG insists on The WBG insists on 8.6 accountability through its accountability through its lending and that the WBG’s financial lending instruments meet Georgia’s needs. In addition, respondents had significantly higher levels of agreement that the Bank meets Georgia’s needs, that it effectively monitors and evaluates its The WBG’s financial 8.6 projects, and that its Environmental and Social Framework instruments meet the needs of requirements are reasonable compared to respondents in FY21. Georgia* 7.5 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG The WBG effectively monitors 8.5 could do to increase its effectiveness in Georgia? and evaluates the projects it FY24 “I believe the WBG can be more consistent, categoric, and offer supports in Georgia* 8.0 FY21 the national government clearer and firmer preconditions for granting loans. This prerequisite should be tied to achieving specific results, which should be monitored more intensively The WBG’s Environmental and 8.4 through clearly defined indicators. The Bank has to be transparent Social Framework requirements in its decision-making processes and engage with civil society and are reasonable* 7.7 other stakeholders in its operations.” (Civil Society Respondent) “Require more accountability from the National Government and The conditions of the WBG’s 8.4 be strict when it comes to meeting the KPIs it sets for the National financing are competitive Government.” (Private Sector Respondent) compared to markets “Carry out further evaluation of the funded projects.” 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 (Media Respondent) Mean Rating To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q *Significant difference between years 25 64% of Respondents Reported Using the WBG’s Knowledge Work; Those Who Did, were Highly Satisfied with the Global Expertise that Helped Boost Institutional Capacity Six in ten respondents reported that they had The WBG brings global expertise to Georgia 9.2 used the WBG’s knowledge work in the past. as part of its knowledge work* 8.6 Working with the WBG increases Georgia’s 9.1 institutional capacity* 8.2 No 36% I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s 8.9 Have you ever knowledge work in Georgia* used the 7.6 Have you ever WBG’s used the WBG’s knowledge knowledge 8.5 work? work? Yes When I need to consult the WBG’s 64% knowledge work, I know how to find it* Yes 6.2 No The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to 8.5 Georgia’s context 7.9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating Have you ever used the WBG’s knowledge work, including participating in workshops or training programs? (Percentage of Respon dents, N=193) Q To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree *Significant difference between usage 26 WBG Knowledge Work Increasingly Perceived as Bringing Global Expertise to Georgia Respondents had the highest levels of agreement that the WBG brings global expertise to Georgia as part of The WBG brings global expertise to Georgia 9.1 its knowledge work, which was also significantly as part of its knowledge work^* 7.8 improved compared to respondents in FY21. Of note, compared to other stakeholder groups: Working with the WBG increases 8.9 ▪ Respondents from private sector had significantly Georgia’s institutional capacity lower levels of agreement that they are satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s knowledge work and had especially low levels of agreement that they know I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s 8.7 how to find it when they need it (mean=4.9). knowledge work in Georgia ▪ Respondents from civil society and the private sector FY24 had significantly lower levels of agreement that the Significance of knowledge work contribution 8.4 FY21 Bank’s knowledge work increases institutional to development results in Georgia 8.2 capacity, brings global expertise, and is tailored to Georgia’s context. The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to 8.4 Georgia’s context In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Georgia? 8.1 When I need to consult the WBG’s “Use more local expertise to better adjust WB's knowledge work, I know how to find it knowledge and experience to the country's specific needs.” (Academia 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 How significant a contribution do you believe the WBG’s knowledge work make to development results in Georgia? Q Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant ^Compared to "Are a source of relevant information on global good practices" asked in FY21. 27 *Significant difference between years 28 The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Georgia “In my opinion, the WBG could enhance its effectiveness in Georgia by prioritizing targeted investments in key sectors such as energy, agriculture, transport, etc., fostering sustainable development, and collaborating closely with local stakeholders. Strengthening capacity-building initiatives and promoting inclusive, community-driven projects would also contribute to the Bank's overall impact in Georgia.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) “1. To obtain the degree of trustworthiness of the organization, provide more information to the citizens of Georgia about the projects financed by the World Bank and their activities in the country, in general. 2. Expand activities with the private sector and support the adjustment of public policies according to their needs. 3. It is also necessary to take into account the development of policy documents or other types of documents adapted to the reality of Georgia within the framework of advisory (intellectual) assistance, in order to implement these documents in the real process and not remain only accepted and/or issued acts.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Georgia? (N=97) What the WBG could do to Increase its Effectiveness in Georgia Focus Areas: Respondents consistently mentioned education, infrastructure, private sector development, In your opinion, what is the and regional coordination as focus areas for the WBG in Georgia. most important thing the WBG could do to increase its “More funded projects in the education system and infrastructure development.” (Local Government Respondent) effectiveness in Georgia? “Work on education and skills development issues. Expand activities on e-governance and digitalization.” (Civil Society Respondent) Categories of responses “Improving the quality of education (increasing the quality of teachers) - at the pre-school and school levels; financing of infrastructure Focus Area 31% projects.” (Civil Society Respondent) Engagement 20% “1. Support of projects adjusted to the priorities determined by the government; 2. Expansion of small and medium business support programs/projects, promoting the increase of awareness of the involved/interested parties about them at the local level.” Operational (Government Institution Respondent) 14% Effectiveness “Promotion of Regional Cooperation and cross-border dialogue.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) Knowledge 11% “Promotion Finance International Corporation of regional development, promotion of independence and development of the private sector.” Communication 11% (Government Institution Respondent) Results 8% “In development programs make focus on environment protection, climate and consult local stakeholders.” (Civil Society Respondent) Financial 4% Support However, respondents also discussed the need to make sure priorities and goals are created in partnership with the local community. “To focus on strategic goals based on the needs of local communities.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) “Studying the needs of different sectors of the Georgian economy, taking into account local needs and more feedback with local partners.” (Government Institution Respondent) In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Q could do to increase its effectiveness in Georgia? (N=97) 29 What the WBG could do to Increase its Effectiveness in Georgia (continued) Operations: Respondents highlighted the need for the WBG to Collaboration: Respondents discussed the need for more effective incorporate more accountability and transparency in how WBG funds collaboration with various stakeholders outside of the Bank’s main are used to ensure their appropriate disbursement and effective results. government counterparts, including civil society, private sector, local government, and Parliament to ensure the WBG is meeting the needs of “Demand more accountability and transparency from the Government (Ministries) on how they utilize the loans and how they tender the projects.” (Academia Respondent) Georgia’s people. “Projects should be implemented with the involvement of civil society and support the “More close collaboration with CSOs and SMEs.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) strengthening of civil control mechanisms of projects, increasing the accountability of the government.” (Civil Society Respondent) “More active involvement of the Parliament as a legislative and supervisory institution in setting priorities.” (Parliamentarian Respondent) “Maintain a critical eye in regards to its main partners in the public sector.” (Media Respondent) “Needs are mainly determined by agreement with the government - more consultation with the private sector is needed.” (Private Sector Respondent) Some respondents discussed the need for more preparation/coordination prior to project design/implementation. “Direct communication with local governments.” (Local Government Respondent) “Before starting the research, check whether the research on the mentioned topic has already been carried out. Before agreeing on a program, ask for the views of the various parties involved in the reform, not just the central government. Better coordinate and agree Communication: Respondents discussed the importance of sharing with local partners on any changes that are made.” (Government Institution Respondent) more information with the public to build awareness and trust. “Take into account lessons learned from past mistakes/challenges.” “Share more widely it's knowledge products and information about their work.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) Some respondents also discussed the need to coordinate and partner “Bringing information to ordinary citizens in terms of teaching them the principles of working more with other donors and development partners. and living in a modern free economy, so that they can correctly assess their capabilities and have the right expectations.” (Government Institution Respondent) “Partnering with other donors.” (Local Government Respondent) “First of all, it is necessary to inform the society more about the implemented projects.” “Increase co-financings.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) (Media Respondent) In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Q could do to increase its effectiveness in Georgia? (N=97) 30 31 Communication and Outreach “Promote activities and increase access to resources.” (Parliamentarian Respondent) “Increase the level of communication about World Bank work and opportunities to stakeholders.” (Civil Society Respondent) “Evaluation publicity related to projects implemented independently by the state and in partnership with the World Bank. More openness and more information should be available to as many citizens as possible. The taxpayer must see the contribution of WB and the expected effect of the project in the wider picture. He must know what the taxes are spent on, what they will be spent on in the case of a loan, and for what result the relevant funds are spent.” (Media Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Georgia? (N=97) Events and Direct Contact were Most Preferred for Receiving WBG Communication Respondents most preferred to receive Bank communications through events/conferences/seminars/workshops (in person or online) and direct contact, followed by e-newsletters. Preferred WBG Source Bilateral / All Government Multilateral Private Respondents Institution Local Government Agency Civil Society Sector Academia Event / conference / seminar / workshop 69% 73% 75% 58% 76% 70% 54% (in person or online) Direct contact with staff (e.g., in person, 54% 53% 50% 65% 66% 50% 23% virtually, phone, email) e-Newsletters 34% 31% 38% 31% 17% 45% 46% Social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter) 16% 16% 0% 15% 24% 20% 0% Direct messaging (e.g., WhatsApp, 12% 12% 25% 12% 7% 5% 31% Telegram, Viber) Other 1% 0% 0% 0% 3% 0% 0% How would you prefer to receive communication from the WBG? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=275) 32 8 in 10 Engaged with the WBG Recently, most often through Direct Contact or Events 80% of respondents recalled hearing or seeing something about the WBG recently. Respondents from government institutions and academia were significantly more likely to recall something (93% and 92%, respectively) whereas respondents from the private sector were the least likely (50%). Respondents most often reported seeing/hearing about the WBG through direct contact and events/conferences/seminars (in person or online). Direct contact with WBG staff 62% High for government Event / conference / seminar institutions (75%) 55% and bilateral/ (in person or online) multilateral agencies (65%) No Social media 39% 20% WBG websites 34% Do you recall Online media / news agencies 26% seeing or hearing anything about e-Newsletters 25% the WBG recently? Television (TV) 21% Newspapers (print or online) 6% High for local government (40%) Yes 80% Blogs 4% Other 1% Do you recall seeing or hearing anything about the WBG recently? (N=189) Q Where do you recall seeing or hearing this information? (Select all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=151) 33 WBG Work on Economic Forecasts and Climate Change were the Most Commonly Recalled Topics Respondents most frequently recalled WBG work or research on economic forecasts and climate change. WBG economic forecasts 47% ▪ Respondents from bilateral/multilateral agencies were Climate change 35% significantly more likely to recall WBG work on economic forecasts (80%) compared to respondents from other Human capital 28% stakeholder groups. Ending poverty in developing 24% countries ▪ Respondents from local government were significantly more likely to recall WBG’s work on women empowerment (60%) Digital economy 23% compared to respondents from other stakeholder groups. Women empowerment 20% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Other 20% could do to increase its effectiveness in Georgia? “Raise the awareness of members of the Georgian Job creation / employment 16% government, i.e., working to make decision-makers understand the benefits of sharing the experience of other, more successful Pandemic preparedness 15% countries, especially in the field of education.” (Government Institution Respondent) Youth development 11% “Information about activities should be more accessible.” Food security 9% (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) Debt relief for developing countries 7% “Simplified communication with the target audience.” Changes to the WBG financial and (Civil Society Respondent) 7% operational model 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=148) Climate Change Communications can be More Impactful when Related to Stakeholders’ Top Concern: Air Pollution Nearly 8 in 10 respondents were very concerned about air pollution when it comes to the potential impacts of climate change in Georgia. Land/forest degradation and more frequent/severe floods were also of great concern to respondents. These key areas of concern should be taken into consideration to make communications about climate change more impactful. Not at all A little Somewhat concerned Very concerned Air pollution 77% Land and forest degradation (e.g., landslides) 73% More frequent and severe floods 69% More frequent and intense wild fires 65% Decreased crop yields / increased food insecurity 63% More frequent and severe heatwaves 56% More frequent and severe droughts 56% Loss of jobs 53% Decreased water availability / quality 51% Extinction of plant / animal species 49% Increased erosion of shoreline 46% Coastal flooding due to sea level rise 43% Climate-driven migration 36% Q How concerned are you about the following potential impacts of climate change in Georgia? (Percentage of Respondents, N=~171) 35 Message Recall Increases Familiarity and Leads to More Positive Perceptions of the WBG and its Work 8.4 Familiarity with the WBG 6.1 8.6 Trust the WBG to do what is right for Georgia Do you recall seeing 7.9 or hearing anything about the WBG 8.6 recently? Positive influence on shaping development policy 8.0 Yes 8.6 No Relevant role in development 7.5 8.5 Aligned with development priorities 7.3 8.3 Effective in helping Georgia achieve development results 7.6 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 Georgia? Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Extremely familiar How much do you trust the WBG to do what is right for Georgia? 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 Georgia. The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in Georgia. The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priori ties for Georgia. 36 How effective is the WBG in helping Georgia achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective 37 Sample Demographics and Detailed Methodology Demographics of the Sample What is the primary specialization Do you of your work? (N=188) collaborate/work Generalist (specialize in multiple with the World Bank sectors) 16% No Group (WBG) 36% Other 13% in Georgia? (N=226) Public sector governance 9% Respondents from government institutions Yes Education 9% 64% and bilateral/multilateral agencies were significantly more likely to indicate that Private sector development / trade 9% they collaborate with the WBG Macroeconomics, fiscal / debt (80% and 69%, respectively) compared to 7% respondents from other stakeholder groups. management Agriculture and food security 7% Energy 6% Environment / natural resource MIGA 5% 3% management Water / sanitation 4% Which of the IFC Health / pandemic preparedness 3% following WBG 31% Gender equity 3% agencies do you World Bank collaborate/work Legal / human rights (IBRD/IDA) 3% with in Georgia? 93% Digital development 2% (N=145) Social protection 2% Transport 2% Climate change 1% 38 Demographics of the Sample (continued) What’s your age? (N=188) Prefer not to 25 or younger 1% specify, 2% 26-35 15% 36-45 37% Female What is your 50% 46-55 28% Male gender? 48% (N=1888) 56 and above 18% Prefer not to specify 2% Western Georgia, 4% Eastern Georgia 5% Which best represents your geographic location? Tbilisi 91% (N=188) 39 Detailed Methodology Percentage of Respondents FY 2021 FY 2024 From November 2023 to January 2024, a total of 855 stakeholders in Georgia were invited Government Principals: Office of the to provide their opinions on the WBG’s work by participating in a Country Opinion Survey President, Prime Minister, Minister, 8% 4% (COS). A list of potential participants was compiled by the WBG country team and the fielding Parliamentarian agency. Participants were drawn from the Office of the President, Prime Minister, Minister, and Government Institutions: Employee of a Parliament, government institutions, local governments, bilateral or multilateral agencies, the Ministry, Department, Project Implementation 22% 40% private sector, civil society, academia, and the media. Unit, Independent Government Institution, Judiciary, State-Owned Enterprise Of these stakeholders, 226 participated in the survey (26% response rate). Respondents Local Government 19% 7% completed the questionnaire via an online platform. Bilateral/Multilateral Agency: Embassy, The results of this year’s survey were compared to the FY21 Survey with a response Development Organization, Development 9% 13% rate of 40% (N=332). Bank, UN Agency Civil Society Organization: Local and Comparing responses across Country Surveys reflects changes in attitudes over time as regional NGOs, Community-Based well as changes in respondent samples, changes in methodology, and changes to the survey Organization, Private Foundation, 12% 15% Professional/Trade Association, instrument itself. To reduce the influence of the latter factor, only those questions with similar Faith-Based Group, Youth Group response scales/options were analyzed. This year’s survey saw a much greater outreach to and/or response from government institutions but a decrease from local governments. These Private Sector: Private Company, Financial 12% 12% Sector Organization, Private Bank differences in stakeholder composition between the two years should be considered when interpreting the results of the past-year comparison analyses. Academia/Research Center 7% 7% Key statistically significant findings (tested at the research standard of p < .05) are noted Media 10% 3% throughout the report. Other 2% 0% Breakdowns for individual questions by stakeholder group can be found in the “Georgia COS FY24 Appendices with data breakdowns.xlsx” file published in the WBG Microdata Total Number of Respondents 324 226 Library, along with the survey microdata and this report. 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 Georgia? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much A2. How effective is the World Bank Group in helping Georgia 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 Georgia? 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 Georgia. A5. The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Georgia. A6. The WBG has a positive influence on shaping development policy in Georgia. A7. The WBG’s work helps end poverty in Georgia 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 Georgia C1_2. Access to WBG staff and experts C1_3. Flexibility when circumstances change in Georgia C1_5. Being a long-term partner to Georgia To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Georgia, 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 donor and development partners To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree C4_1. The WBG’s financial instruments (i.e., budget support, loans, grants, trust funds) meet the needs of Georgia. C6_1. I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s knowledge work in Georgia. C6_4. The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to Georgia’s context. 41 Thank you For more information about this report or the Country Opinion Survey program, please contact: countrysurveys@worldbankgroup.org