FY 2023 Nepal Country Opinion Survey Report ECR Business Intelligence Team | December 2023 Acknowledgements The Nepal 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. Noreen Wambui and Irina Popova provided data support. BI acknowledges the significant contribution from the Nepal country team and independent fielding agency, Blitz Media Private Limited. In particular, BI is grateful for the support from Bigyan Pradhan (Senior Operations Officer) and Akash Babu Shrestha (External Affairs Officer) who coordinated the survey-related activities from Kathmandu, Nepal. Contents Objectives Methodology Overview Overall Context Overall Attitudes Toward the World Bank Group World Bank Group’s Support in Development Areas World Bank Group’s Work and Engagement on the Ground in Nepal World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Nepal Communication and Outreach Demographics of the Sample 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 Nepal perceive the WBG. The survey explored the following questions: 1. Overall Context: How do stakeholders perceive the country’s direction? 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 when it comes to its effectiveness, relevance, alignment with Nepal’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 and Work on the Ground: What do key stakeholders value the most and the least when it comes to the WBG’s work in Nepal? How is the WBG perceived as a development partner? Are opinions improving or declining? 5. Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work: What opinion do key stakeholders have of WBG financial instruments and knowledge products? Are opinions improving or declining? What are stakeholders’ suggestions to improve WBG’s effectiveness? 6. Communication and Outreach: What are the preferred communication channels and which channels are reported to be used the most? 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 20% ▪ Fielded June through August 2023 ▪ 1,106 potential participants were asked to complete a mostly quantitative survey Bilateral or Multilateral Agency 17% ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaires online or on paper Private Sector 17% ▪ List of names provided by the WBG country team and supplemented by the fielding agency Civil Society Organization 14% ▪ Process managed on the ground by the fielding agency Local Government Office or Staff 10% ▪ 497 participants (45% response rate) ▪ 43% from Bagmati Province, 23% from Kathmandu Academia/Research 6% Institute/Think Tank ▪ 39% currently collaborate with the WBG ▪ 12% specialize in governance, 9% in education Office of a Parliamentarian 5% ▪ Compared to FY19 Country Survey Media 5% ▪ 421 participants (65% response rate) University Students 4% ▪ Surveys completed with a representative from the local fielding agency ▪ 27% collaborated with the WBG Office of the President, Prime 3% Minister, Minister Click here for details of the Respondent Sample and Methodology. Other 1% Q Which of the following best describes your current affiliation? (Select only 1 response) (Percentage of Respondents, N=495) 5 6 Overall Context “[The WBG should] ensure effective utilization of resources. Focus on fewer but priority areas rather than spread the resources in almost all sectors.” (Bilateral / Multilateral Agency Respondent) “To enhance effectiveness in Nepal, the WBG should prioritize inclusive projects that address the specific needs of vulnerable groups. Active community engagement during planning and implementation will foster ownership and local participation. Building capacity in Nepali institutions enables better project management. Data-driven approaches are crucial for informed decision-making and tracking progress. Emphasizing climate change resilience helps tackle vulnerabilities to disasters. Public-private partnerships bring additional resources and expertise. Knowledge sharing among stakeholders ensures best practices and lessons learned. Effective coordination with other development partners avoids duplication and maximizes impact. Through these strategies, the WBG can better support sustainable development and poverty reduction in Nepal.” (Local Government Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to help increase its effectiveness in Nepal? (N=274) Respondents are Split Over Nepal’s General Direction In FY23, less than half of all respondents felt that Nepal was headed in the right direction (44%), and a third of them were unsure. ▪ Respondents from government institutions were significantly more likely to indicate that the country was 44% headed in the right direction (67%) while respondents from the private sector were most likely to say that the country was on the wrong track (35%). The right direction ▪ Over half of the respondents from bilateral/multilateral organizations, the media, and particularly university students (60%) were unsure about Nepal’s direction. The wrong direction 19% Not sure 37% Q FY23: In general, would you say that Nepal is headed in ... ? (Percentage of Respondents, N=494) 7 Familiarity with the World Bank has Improved ▪ Year comparison: Respondents in this year’s Country All Respondents 5.9 Survey reported somewhat higher levels of familiarity with the World Bank Group compared to FY19: Government Institution 6.8 Mean familiarity: FY23 = 5.9 FY19 = 5.6 Local Government 6.3 Academia 6.1 ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who collaborate with the WBG reported significantly higher levels of familiarity with the institution’s work: Media 6.0 Mean familiarity: Collaborate with WBG = 6.9 Bilateral/ Multilateral Agency 5.9 Do not collaborate = 5.3 Private Sector 5.6 Civil Society 5.6 Government Principals 5.4 University Students 4.0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Familiarity How familiar are you with the work of the World Bank Group in Nepal? 8 Q Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Extremely familiar (N=497) Significantly different between stakeholder groups The WBG is One of the Most Central Bank of Nepal 7.0 6.9 Trusted Institution in Nepal 6.9 The World Bank Group* 6.5 Respondents gave the highest ratings of trust for the Central 6.8 Bank of Nepal, the World Bank Group, and the UN. At the The United Nations (UN)* 6.4 same time, the Parliament and provincial/local government in 6.6 Regional development banks* Nepal received somewhat lower trust ratings among the 6.1 institutions studied. 6.6 Bilateral / Multilateral organizations* 5.9 ▪ Ratings of trust were significantly higher for most of the 6.5 The International Monetary Fund* institutions in FY23 than in the FY19 survey, except for the 5.9 federal government and the media whose ratings of trust Academia/think tanks/research 6.4 institutions FY23 dropped significantly since FY19. FY19 6.2 ▪ In FY23, respondents from the local government gave the Private sector* 5.9 highest ratings of trust for the WBG (mean=7.8), whereas 6.0 Civil society respondents from academia (mean=5.8) and university 5.7 students (mean=6.1) gave significantly lower ratings of 5.7 The federal government* trust. 6.2 5.6 Media* 6.1 5.5 Provincial / Local government 5.5 Parliament / legislative branch 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 To what extent do you trust each of the following groups to do what is right? Mean Rating of Trust Q Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree (FY23 N=~454; FY19 N=~356) 9 *Significantly different between years Overall Attitudes toward the World Bank Group “WBG needs to bring global expertise and customize [the expertise] to the context and needs of the Nepali people.” (Academia Respondent) “WBG should be able to provide support by influencing the policy which supports grassroots-level people. WBG should help create equitable opportunities, capacity development, and access for poor and marginal people.” (Civil Society Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to help increase its effectiveness in Nepal? (N=274) 10 Improvement in a Key Performance Indicator In FY23, ratings for the key areas of the WBG performance 6.9 Influences the development were similar to those reported in FY19, except for the agenda* perceptions of the Bank’s influence on the development 6.6 agenda, which has improved significantly since FY19. 6.7 • Respondents from local governments gave the highest Relevance ratings (mean across all five questions=7.4) while 6.5 university students gave significantly lower ratings across all of these performance indicators (mean=5.6). University students also reported the lowest levels of Alignment with development 6.5 familiarity with the WBG compared to other stakeholder priorities FY23 6.5 groups. FY19 6.3 Effectiveness in achieving results^ 6.4 6.2 Ends extreme poverty 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Nepal. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q To what extent does the WBG influence the development agenda in Nepal? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree How effective has the WBG been in achieving development results in Nepal? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective *Significantly different The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Nepal. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree between years The WBG’s work helps end extreme poverty in Nepal. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree ^ Compared to a mean score of the two questions asked in FY19: "Overall, please rate your impression of the WBG’s effectiveness in Nepal. Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective; To what extent does the WBG’s work help to achieve development results in Nep al? 11 Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree Local Government 6.5 7.2 7.8 Respondents Have Trust in the WBG* 6.9 6.6 6.9 More Positive 5.8 6.1 6.9 Perceptions of the WBG 7.1 6.8 7.6 Government Influences the development 6.9 Principals Comparing ratings of key performance agenda* 6.8 6.7 Government indicators between stakeholder groups, 7.3 Institution 6.9 clear patterns emerge in their perceptions of 5.8 Local Government the WBG and its work. Respondents from 6.1 local governments tend to have the most 6.7 Bilateral / 7.5 positive perceptions while university 6.9 Multilateral Relevance* 6.7 Civil students give significantly lower ratings of 6.3 6.6 Society the WBG and its work. 7.0 5.4 Private Sector 6.1 6.5 Academia 7.4 Effectiveness in achieving 6.3 6.0 Media results* Q 5.8 6.2 6.6 Univesity The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in 5.7 Nepal. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Students 6.3 To what extent do you trust the WBG to do what is right? 6.6 Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree 7.3 To what extent does the WBG influence the development 6.8 *Significantly different Alignment with development between stakeholder agenda in Nepal? 6.4 Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree priorities* 6.1 groups 6.4 How effective has the WBG been in achieving development 6.2 results in Nepal? 5.3 Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 development priorities for Nepal. Mean Rating Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 12 Familiarity Leads to More Positive Perceptions 7.9 When comparing ratings of key performance indicators Trust in the WBG* 6.9 among respondents highly familiar with the WBG 5.5 (ratings of 8-10 on a 10-point scale) and those with little familiarity with the WBG (ratings of 1-4 on a 10-point 7.5 scale), one can see that the more familiar stakeholders Influences the development 6.9 are with the WBG, the more positive perceptions they agenda* have of the WBG and its work. 6.0 7.5 Meaningful engagement and outreach can continue Relevance* 6.7 to increase positive perceptions. 5.5 7.4 Alignment with development 6.5 priorities* 5.3 7.1 Effectiveness in achieving results* 6.4 5.1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating How familiar are you with the work of the WBG in Nepal? High Familiarity (8-10) Some Familiarity (5-7) Low Familiarity (1-4) The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Nepal. Scale: 1Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree *Significantly different between Q To what extent do you trust the WBG to do what is right? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree levels of familiarity To what extent does the WBG influence the development agenda in Nepal? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree How effective has the WBG been in achieving development results in Nepal? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Nepal. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 13 Nepal Rated Lower than other IDA Countries in FY23 on Key Performance Indicators The mean ratings for relevance, alignment, and effectiveness in achieving results, as well as the trust rating, were somewhat lower in Nepal compared to those in other IDA countries^ surveyed in FY23, except for the influence rating, which was on par with other IDA countries. 6.9 Trust 7.1 6.9 Influences the development agenda 6.9 6.7 Relevance 7.2 Nepal FY23 IDA FY23 Alignment with development 6.5 priorities 6.8 6.3 Effectiveness in achieving results 6.9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating 14 Q ^ FY23 IDA countries included: Central Africa Republic, Djibouti, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Honduras, The Kyrgyz Republic, Mali, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Tanzania, Stakeholder Trends across Performance Indicators Respondents from local governments had the highest All Respondents 6.5 mean rating across the aggregated responses to the seventeen COS indicator questions whereas university Local Government 7.0 students, academia, and the private sector had significantly lower ratings. Bilateral or Multilateral Agency 6.6 ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who Media 6.6 collaborate with the WBG gave significantly higher ratings across the aggregated indicator questions Government Principals 6.5 compared to respondents who do not collaborate with the WBG: Government Institution 6.5 Mean rating: Collaborate with WBG = 6.7 Civil Society 6.4 Do not collaborate = 6.3 Private Sector 6.2 Academia/Think Tank 6.2 Univesity Students 5.5 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 World Bank Group’s Support in Development Areas “- Partnership with local government for urban planning and development, Waste management, Tourism development, and promotion etc. - Work focuses on strengthening local CSOs and community mobilization and partnership for sustainable development - GRID - Support to local government for educational sector improvement plan.” (Local Government Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to help increase its effectiveness in Nepal? (N=274) 16 Development Priorities for Agriculture and food security Education 48% 46% Nepal Job creation / employment 45% Public sector governance 40% Agriculture and food security, education, and job creation Health 36% were the top areas in FY23 where stakeholders would like the Macroeconomic stability 28% WBG to focus its resources. Climate change 26% ▪ Respondents from local government and government Private sector development 25% principals were most likely to select agriculture and food Transport 24% security as a top development priority in Nepal (67% and Digital development 24% 64%, respectively) Environment / Natural resource 18% management ▪ University students were significantly more likely to select Social inclusion 17% education (85%) and job creation/employment (60%) as Energy / Extractives 17% their top development priorities in Nepal. Gender equity 16% ▪ Climate change has increased in priority from just over 2% in Water supply and sanitation infrastructure 15% FY19 to 26% in FY23. Respondents from civil society (46%) Disaster risk management 13% and academia (48%) were most likely to select climate Trade 12% change among their top development priorities. Urban development 11% Social protection 8% Debt sustainability 7% Crime and violence 6% Regional integration 4% Please identify which of the following development priorities you consider the most important in Nepal. Other 3% Q (Choose no more than 5) (Percentage of Respondents, N=487) 17 Poverty Reduction Job creation / employment Education 53% 67% Agriculture and food security 52% As in FY19, agriculture and food security, education, and job Private sector development 32% creation were the top areas in FY23 that stakeholders believe Health 29% would contribute the most to reducing poverty in Nepal. Public sector governance 27% ▪ Private sector development was more likely to be chosen by Social inclusion 26% respondents from media, the private sector, and academia Macroeconomic stability 25% (52%, 49%, and 38%, respectively). Transport 25% Social protection 20% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could Trade 20% do to help increase its effectiveness in Nepal? Digital development 20% “The World Bank will be effective if it works in the following areas in Gender equity 17% Nepal: Implement tailored initiatives that integrate marginalized communities Climate change 11% like Dalits with others, rather than employing generic programs. Environment / Natural resource 11% To achieve holistic progress in the political, economic, and social management aspects of the Dalit community, efforts should focus on scientific Energy / Extractives 10% reservation Urban development 9% Emphasis should be placed on the unity and inclusion of marginalized communities in Nepal. Debt sustainability 9% Efforts should be made to address and rectify the inequality issues in Disaster risk management 8% Nepal Once all forms of discrimination are eradicated, it is appropriate to Water supply and sanitation infrastructure 6% implement inclusive programs” Regional integration 6% (Civil Society Respondent) Crime and violence 3% Poverty reduction is a broad term that encompasses work in many different areas. Which FIVE areas of development listed Q below do you believe would contribute most to reducing poverty in Nepal? (Choose no more than 5) (Percentage of Other 2% 18 Respondents, N=487) Areas for the WBG to Job creation / employment 51% Agriculture and food security 43% Prioritize Education 36% The areas the WBG should prioritize in its work were well aligned Public sector governance 34% with the development priorities identified by the stakeholders: job Macroeconomic stability 31% creation, agriculture and food security, and education. Health 30% Private sector development 30% ▪ University students were significantly more likely to prioritize Transport 28% job creation/employment compared to other stakeholder groups (75%). Digital development 27% Energy / Extractives 23% ▪ Respondents from bilateral/multilateral agencies were most Climate change 22% likely to select public sector governance as a top area for the WBG to focus (54%). Climate change was also a Social inclusion 18% relatively high priority for this group (36%). Urban development 16% Environment / Natural resource 16% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG management could do to help increase its effectiveness in Nepal? Trade 15% “Promote policy stability (both fiscal as well as monetary), Gender equity 13% supporting long-term broad-based development agendas Debt sustainability 11% Focus on large infra projects in sectors such as energy, transport, etc. Disaster risk management 10% Promote sustainable agriculture to curb agro-based imports and Water supply and sanitation infrastructure 9% explore export potential. Engage in job creation-based projects; promote SME ecosystem Social protection 9% etc.” Regional integration 7% (Private Sector Respondent) Crime and violence 3% Other 1% Which areas should the WBG prioritize in its work in Nepal to have the most impact on development results in 19 Q the country? (Choose no more than 5) (Percentage of Respondents, N=482) Effectiveness of WBG’s Finance / Institutions / Economic Growth Support in Sectoral Areas Macroeconomic stability 5.8 5.6 The WBG’s work in the area of transport received the highest ratings of Public sector governance* 6.4 effectiveness in Nepal, although rated significantly lower compared to FY19. Almost all sectoral areas witnessed a decline in the perception of 5.6 Private sector development 5.7 effectiveness since FY19, especially the key areas of education, public sector governance, and agriculture and food security. 5.6 FY23 Regional integration* 6.0 FY19 Gender equity 6.2 5.5 6.4 Debt sustainability Health* 6.0 6.5 5.5 Human Development Job creation / employment* 5.9 Education* 5.9 6.6 5.4 5.9 Trade 5.8 Social inclusion 6.0 FY23 Social protection 5.6 FY19 5.7 Environmental Sustainability Infrastructure Transport* 6.5 6.8 5.9 Energy / Extractives* 6.2 Disaster risk management 6.2 6.6 Water supply and sanitation 5.9 6.1 Climate change* 6.3 infrastructure* 6.7 Environment / Natural resource FY23 6.1 5.8 Urban development* FY23 6.0 6.6 management FY19 FY19 5.7 5.7 *Significantly different Digital development* Agriculture and food security*^ 6.4 6.2 between years 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 Q How effective do you believe the WBG is in terms of the work it does in the following areas of development in Nepal? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective (If you have NO exposure to/experience in working in any of the sectors listed below, please respond “Don’t know”) ^The mean score of “Agriculture and rural development” and “Food security” asked in FY19 was taken for this comparison analys is. 20 Green, Resilient, and Inclusive Development (GRID) of Nepal Almost half of the respondents (45%) reported knowing a lot How familiar are you with the GRID objectives? or a fair amount about the GRID objectives. I know a lot about the GRID objectives Respondents from government organizations and 8% bilateral/multilateral agencies tended to be more aware of the GRID action plan (50% and 55% of these stakeholders, respectively, reported knowing a lot or a fair amount about the I know nothing about GRID objectives). the GRID objectives 22% I know a fair amount In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG about the GRID could do to help increase its effectiveness in Nepal? objectives 37% “…the concept of Gender-Responsive Inclusive Development I know very little about (GRID) should be central to the WBG's efforts. By designing and the GRID objectives implementing projects that consider the diverse needs and contributions of all genders, the WBG can promote gender 34% equality and social inclusion. This would involve initiatives such as empowering women economically, challenging gender norms, and ensuring access to education and healthcare for all..” (Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent) Q How familiar are you with the GRID objectives? (Select only 1 response) (Percentage of Respondents, N=476) 21 Most Respondents Agree that the WBG Addresses Climate, Gender, and Citizen Engagement in its Project Designs When asked if the WBG incorporates climate resilience, gender equality, and citizen engagement in its project designs in Nepal, a vast majority of respondents agreed or strongly agreed on all three issues. However, more respondents tended to disagree or strongly disagree that the Bank includes citizen engagement in its project designs (8%), and 20% of respondents remained undecided about the incorporation of citizen engagement issues in the WBG project designs suggesting that this is a less known aspect of the WBG’s work in Nepal than climate resilience or gender equality. To what extent do you agree that the WBG addresses each of the following issues by incorporating them in the project designs Climate resilience 1% 13% 65% 19% Gender equality 4% 12% 67% 16% Citizen 2% 6% 20% 60% 12% engagement 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Strongly Disagree Disagree Undecided Agree Strongly Agree When thinking about the projects funded by the WBG in Nepal, to what extent do you agree that the WBG addresses Q each of the following issues by incorporating them in the project designs (Percentage of Respondents, N=~379) 22 23 World Bank Group’s Work and Engagement on the Ground in Nepal “1. Engage as much as possible with local stakeholders 2. Ensure effective monitoring 3. Focus on more continuity in Nepali public policies.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent) “WBG should seriously understand the needs of Nepal rather than just introducing a global approach. There is a lack of pragmatic and issue-based collaboration with Nepal.” (Media Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to help increase its effectiveness in Nepal? (N=274) Financial Resources are the Bank’s Greatest Value In FY23, financial resources were considered the WBG’s Providing financial resources 63% greatest value to Nepal by respondents. In addition, respondents in this year’s survey considered the WBG’s Bringing together different bringing together different stakeholder groups of much stakeholder groups to support 44% greater value, being identified by almost twice as many Nepal’s development efforts respondents as in FY19 (24%). Capacity building and training 28% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Nepal? Providing data and statistics 20% “Giving financial support and access to finance for development projects is a crucial component. Additionally, assistance must be based on a results-based strategy such as Providing advisory services and employment.” analytics to support design or 18% implementation of policies (Bilateral/ Multilateral Agency Respondent) Producing research on global 16% development issues Mobilizing third-party financial 6% resources Other 1% When thinking about the WBG’s role in Nepal, which activity do you VALUE the most? (Choose no more than 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=464) 24 The WBG is Increasingly Seen as a Responsive and Flexible Institution In FY23, respondents perceived the WBG as a significantly more flexible and responsive partner than in FY19. Perceptions of the 7.5 Bank being a long-term partner with accessible staff have also Being a long-term partner improved, although not significantly. 7.3 ▪ As with other aspects of the WBG’s work in Nepal, university students tended to be more critical of the WBG than other stakeholder groups (mean across all questions=5.6). 6.5 Responsiveness to needs* 6.0 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Nepal? FY23 “World Bank brings global expertise to Nepal for research and FY19 6.1 operation, which is a plus to Nepal. However, unless Nepali Flexibility when circumstances experts work in the core team as leaders or co-leaders it will be change^* hard to cater the recommendations to Nepal's development 5.7 needs. So, it is imperative that WB includes local experts in leading roles not just as supporting consultants/staff. Also, it is important that local experts, consultants, and staff that WB recruits represent different social, economic, and ethnic classes 6.1 Access to WBG staff and in Nepal society. Also, overemphasis on fluency in the English experts language shouldn't be the barrier for candidates who are very 5.9 motivated otherwise.” (Government Institution Respondent) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Nepal, in terms of each of the following? Q Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree 25 ^Compared to the mean of institutional flexibility and flexibility to changes in country context asked in FY19. *Significantly different between years The WBG Increasingly Seen as Effectively Collaborating with the Private Sector 7.2 The federal government 7.1 In FY23, respondents perceived the WBG as collaborating 7.0 significantly more with the private sector than in FY19, although Central Bank of Nepal the rating is still rather moderate. Regional development banks 6.8 Notably, respondents from academia and university students (e.g., Asian Development Bank) tended to give some of the lowest ratings for the WBG’s 6.5 collaboration with all stakeholder groups (mean across all groups Other development partners 6.4 = 5.7 and 5.9, respectively). Academia / think tanks / 6.3 research institutions In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG FY23 6.2 could do to help increase its effectiveness in Nepal? Private sector* 5.8 FY19 “WBG should increase its engagement and collaborative work with local government, as well as local NGOs ensuring Civil society (e.g., INGOs, 6.1 democratic and inclusive participation of community people, NGOs, CBOs) 5.8 CBOs, and private sector in the local development process that 5.9 could increase the effectiveness of WBG work in Nepal.” Provincial and local government (Civil Society Respondent) 5.7 Media 5.6 Parliament/legislative branch 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Nepal, in terms of collaborating with the following Q groups? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree *Significantly different between years 26 Stakeholders Want the Bank to Collaborate More with the Federal Government, Local Government, and Private Sector The federal government 52% In FY23, respondents suggested that the WBG should increase its collaboration with the federal government, provincial and Provincial and local government 46% local governments, and the private sector. Notably, perceptions of the current level of collaboration with provincial Private sector 44% and local governments are among the lowest (mean = 5.9). Academia / think tanks / research 31% Respondents also indicated that the WBG should collaborate institutions more with academia/think tanks/research institutes, the Central Bank of Nepal, and civil society. Central Bank of Nepal 30% Civil society (e.g., INGOs, NGOs, In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG 29% CBOs) could do to help increase its effectiveness in Nepal? “Work in collaboration with Provinces and local governments to Other development partners 23% operate cohesively in social development initiatives, including education, healthcare, and employment generation.” Regional development banks 19% (Government Institution Respondent) (e.g., Asian Development Bank) “The WBG can collaborate with local institutions, academia, and civil Parliament/legislative branch 11% society organizations to enhance technical skills and knowledge transfer. This could involve workshops, training programs, and knowledge-sharing platforms to empower Nepali stakeholders for Media 6% development.” (Private Sector Respondent) Other 2% Which THREE of the following groups should the WBG collaborate with more in Nepal? (Choose no more than 3) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=465) 27 World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work “Expect more accountability from the GON, and build that into all projects, transactions, and engagements. Better use its leverage of the substantial amount of funding, mostly loans, that are provided, and place more expectations of good governance on those funds. Find a way to incorporate subnational governance and federalism into all efforts. Examine processes that undermine GON responsibility and governance, including the provision of salary supplements, high per diem rates, and other extras to government employees for doing their jobs.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent) 28 Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to help increase its effectiveness in Nepal? (N=274) WBG Lending Most Seen as Insisting on Accountability, Perceptions of Timeliness Have Improved Respondents gave the highest ratings for the WBG insisting on accountability through its lending. In addition, respondents 7.1 perceived the timeliness of the Bank’s financial support as The WBG insists on accountability through its lending significantly higher than in FY19. However, respondents provided multiple qualitative comments on the WBG’s current operational work, focusing on the issues 6.9 The WBG promotes effectiveness of corruption, inefficiency, the need for a greater understanding and efficiency of funds provided. of the local context, and more focus on development outcomes. In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG The WBG provides financial support 6.9 could do to help increase its effectiveness in Nepal? in a timely manner* FY23 5.7 “Make sure that the grants/loans reach the desired target groups. FY19 More stringent on monitoring of PDOs and make PDOs measurable and the PIUs accountable.” The conditions of the WBG’s 6.7 (Government Institution Respondent) financing are competitive compared to markets. “Stress in efficiency. Be accountable and acknowledge your weaknesses or mistakes made in the past including some of the failed projects. Focus on your comparative advantage vis a vis other 6.6 The WBG’s financial instruments development partners-- Private sector development, good meet the needs of Nepal governance, infrastructure, among others. Engage a wider section 6.3 of stakeholders while designing projects and deciding on supporting.” 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 (Civil Society Respondent) Mean Rating To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q ^ Compared to “The World Bank Group disburses funds promptly” asked in FY19. 29 *Significantly different between years Most Respondents Have Not Used the WBG’s Knowledge Work Have you used the WBG’s advisory Only one-third of all respondents reported using WBG’s services and analytics in the past? knowledge work. ▪ Respondents from the media and academia were more likely to have used WBG’s knowledge work (48% and 43%, respectively) compared to respondents from other stakeholder groups. Not sure 18% Yes In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG 32% could do to help increase its effectiveness in Nepal? “Strengthening the capacity of local institutions, government agencies, and civil society organizations is essential for sustainable development. The WBG could invest in programs that provide technical assistance, training, and knowledge-sharing to enhance the skills and capabilities of local stakeholders. This would empower Nepal to better manage and implement development projects, rather than wasting the funds received in unnecessary things. ” (Civil Society Respondent) No 50% Q Have you used the WBG’s advisory services and analytics in the past? (Percentage of Respondents, N=463) 30 Stakeholders Anticipate Using WBG Knowledge Work In terms of the WBG’s knowledge work, respondents I anticipate using the WBG's advisory 7.6 services and analytical work in the future. had the highest levels of agreement that they anticipate using the WBG’s advisory services and The WBG brings global expertise and best 6.9 analytical work in the future. Respondents who had practices to Nepal as part of its advisory services and analytical work. 6.7 used the WBG’s knowledge work in the past had significantly higher levels of agreement for most of The WBG's knowledge work contributes to 6.6 these aspects of the WBG’s knowledge work development results 6.8 compared to respondents who had not used it. The WBG’s advisory services and analytical 6.5 work are timely.* 6.1 In addition, respondents had significantly higher levels of agreement that the WBG advisory services and The WBG’s publications are adequately 6.5 analytical work are timely and that publications are disseminated.* 6.1 FY23 adequately disseminated than respondents in FY19. I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s FY19 6.5 The ratings for the WBG’s analytical works being advisory services and analytical work in Nepal. translated into local languages remained the lowest through the years and across stakeholder groups. The WBG’s advice and recommendations 6.5 are tailored to Nepal’s context. 6.3 Stakeholders are adequately engaged 6.2 during preparation of analytical work. 6.2 The WBG’s analytical works are translated 5.4 enough into local languages. 5.3 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 How significant a contribution do you believe the World Bank Group's knowledge work and activities make to development results in Nepal? Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant ^Compared to "Are a source of relevant information on global good practices" and “Are adaptable to Nepal’s specific developme nt challenges and country circumstances”, 31 respectively, asked in FY19. *Significantly different between years 32 The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Nepal What the WBG could do to Increase its Effectiveness in Nepal Operations: Respondents across all stakeholder groups highlighted the need for the WBG to incorporate more In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG accountability and transparency in how WBG funds are used to ensure that they lead to tangible development could do to help increase its results. Respondents touched upon the need for a better understanding of the local context when preparing effectiveness in Nepal? interventions, as well as greater engagement of stakeholder groups outside the government and at the local level. “In my opinion, corruption is the main reason amongst all why Nepal is not developed. Therefore, the World Bank can Categories of responses prove to be a partner in the development of Nepal by conducting effective programs to control corruption.” Communication (Local Government Respondent) 3% Collaboration “Insist on "inclusion" of all residents in Nepal before providing funding. Introduce indicators on the inclusion of each of t he 11% (vulnerable) groups in Nepal and how development funding has reached all those groups, including a large number of undocumented people in Nepal (in particular women and children/youth are negatively impacted).” (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) “World Bank should recruit more national technical specialists to engage with Government, civil society, and society at Focus areas Operations large. Expats are good for advisory; however, they need national capacity-building efforts to localize the expertise and 51% 35% know-how.” (Private Sector Respondent) “Adapting actions to the unique circumstances of Nepal would be a more suitable approach.” (Government Institution) In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do Q to help increase its effectiveness in Nepal? (Please be specific) (N=274) 33 What the WBG could do to Increase its Effectiveness in Nepal Focus: Respondents consistently mentioned job creation as a focus area for the WBG, prioritizing private sector development, agriculture, education, and infrastructure needs along with social inclusion and consistent work with vulnerable groups (Dalits, women, youth). Capacity building and training also emerged as important focus areas for the WBG. Word cloud of qualitative “Focus on the capacity development of self-residence of the people and the government service provider through the knowledge, not the direct fund. Direct funds to the government are not reliable. We don't believe in the government entities on the best utilization of responses funds given by WB. Teach people to fish not give them fish. It means skills and knowledge are the best support.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) “Investment in Urban infrastructures and capacity development of Central, Provincial and local government employees. (Government Institution Respondent) “- Focus on Targeted Investments: The World Bank Group should prioritize targeted investments in key sectors that are critical to Nepal's development. This could include areas such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and renewable energy. By concentrating resources on sectors with the greatest potential for impact, the World Bank can ensure that its efforts have a tangible and sustainable effect on Nepal's economic growth and social development. - Enhance Local Ownership and Engagement: Engaging with local stakeholders and ensuring their active participation in project design and implementation is essential. By involving local communities, government agencies, civil society organizations, and private sector actors, the World Bank can tailor its interventions to the specific needs of Nepal and increase the chances of project success and sustainability. - Strengthening Governance and Institutions: Improving governance and institutional capacity is crucial to ensure that development projects are effectively implemented and that resources are ” (Respondent from the Office of the President / PM / Minister) Collaboration and Communication: Respondents mainly focused on the need for more effective collaboration and communication with various stakeholder groups outside of the government, particularly the private sector, to ensure greater efficiency in operational work and adaptation to the local context. These responses are mostly covered in the respective sections of this report. In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do Q to help increase its effectiveness in Nepal? (Please be specific) (N=274) 34 35 Communication and Outreach “Reach out to as many primary and secondary stakeholders as possible. Make public dissemination and spread information through different means of media including social media handles.” (Bilateral/ Multilateral Agency Respondent) “WBG's presence seems concentrated in certain areas and a lot of people do not feel the impact or do not understand the impacts WBG is making in Nepal. While it is very important to focus on the developmental goals in various sectors, it is also important to share these impacts. So, communicating through various channels and letting people know about the group, its activities, and its impact will help increase its effectiveness. (Private Sector Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to help increase its effectiveness in Nepal? (N=274) Newspapers were the Most Common Information Source Respondents most relied on newspapers, research papers/official statistics, and social media to get information about economic and social development issues. However, there were some significant differences between stakeholder groups in their most utilized information sources. Top 2 Information Sources Bilateral / All Government Government Local Multilateral Private University Respondents Principals Institution Government Agency Civil Society Sector Academia Media Students Newspapers (Print or online)* 63% 77% 64% 47% 68% 60% 63% 82% 74% 26% Research papers / Official 61% 63% 66% 53% 66% 72% 43% 79% 57% 37% statistics* Social media* 60% 53% 48% 72% 61% 69% 71% 50% 43% 74% Television (TV)* 33% 63% 45% 53% 17% 18% 26% 21% 17% 47% e-Newsletters 31% 20% 28% 40% 32% 34% 35% 25% 35% 26% Radio* 8% 13% 11% 17% 1% 2% 8% 4% 9% 16% Blogs* 6% 3% 3% 2% 1% 9% 11% 11% 0% 16% Other 5% 7% 3% 0% 9% 3% 7% 7% 9% 11% Podcasts* 5% 0% 3% 2% 5% 6% 10% 0% 0% 26% How do you get most of your information about economic and social development issues in Nepal? Q (Choose no more than 3) (Percentage of Respondents, N=461) *Significantly different between stakeholder groups 36 WBG Website, Events, and Social Media were Most Preferred for Obtaining WBG Information Respondents reported using a variety of sources to obtain information from the WBG, but most preferred the WBG Website, events, and social media. However, there were some significant differences between stakeholder groups in their most preferred sources. Preferred WBG Source Bilateral / All Government Government Local Multilateral Private University Respondents Principals Institution Government Agency Civil Society Sector Academia Media Students WBG Website* 52% 57% 65% 50% 46% 55% 38% 79% 43% 26% Event/conference/ 49% 53% 62% 48% 45% 49% 46% 43% 39% 26% seminar/workshop Social media * 47% 40% 39% 35% 49% 55% 61% 29% 48% 63% Media* 38% 47% 35% 63% 23% 32% 33% 39% 61% 58% e-Newsletters 34% 43% 32% 27% 35% 35% 36% 50% 17% 37% Direct contact with staff 34% 40% 35% 44% 35% 29% 26% 21% 43% 32% Interviews and press 12% 13% 6% 17% 13% 9% 17% 4% 26% 5% conferences Podcasts* 8% 0% 2% 0% 17% 9% 10% 7% 4% 26% Blogs 5% 3% 1% 2% 4% 8% 11% 11% 0% 11% Other 2% 0% 2% 2% 0% 3% 3% 0% 4% 0% How would you prefer to obtain information about the World Bank Group Q and its work? (Choose no more than 3) (Percentage of Respondents, N=469) *Significantly different between stakeholder groups 37 5 in 10 Engaged with the WBG in the Last 30 Days 51% of respondents recalled hearing or seeing something about the WBG in the last 30 days. Respondents reported seeing that information most often via direct contact with the WBG staff, on social media, and during WBG events. Among those who selected “Social media”, respondents most commonly reported seeing something on Facebook, followed by Twitter (X), and LinkedIn. Direct contact with WBG staff 44% Social media 44% Event / conference / seminar 39% WBG Website 33% 66% Newspapers (Print or online) 32% e-Newsletters 26% 49% Television (TV) 17% Radio 12% 29% 21% Direct messaging 12% 12% Other 4% 8% 8% Facebook Twitter(X) LinkedIn YouTube WhatsApp Instagram Other Blogs 3% Podcasts 1% Do you recall seeing or hearing anything about the WBG in the last 30 days? (N=459) Q Where do you recall seeing or hearing this information? (Check all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=234) 38 What social media platforms do you recall seeing this information on? (Check all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=114) WBG Work on GRID was the Most Commonly Recalled Topics Respondents most frequently recalled messages related to WBG support to Government’s priority on Green, Resilient, and Inclusive 48% the WBG’s support to the Government’s priority on Development (GRID) GRID, the WBG’s work on climate, followed by economic forecasts. WBG work or research on climate change 39% (mitigation, adaptation) ▪ Respondents from academia, civil society, and local WBG global economic forecasts 33% government were significantly more likely to recall WBG work on human capital (53%, 47%, and 40%, respectively) compared to respondents from other WBG work to improve gender equity and 30% empower women and girls stakeholder groups. WBG work or research on transport, trade, 29% and connectivity In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG WBG work or research on human capital could do to help increase its effectiveness in Nepal? 29% development (health, nutrition, education) “… WBG hasn't been very effective in reaching out to credible WBG work or research on federalism and new media sources.” strengthening public institutions 29% (Media Respondent) WBG work or research on energy (increasing energy supply, reducing 27% “WBG should be working directly to reach the community. Its dependence of fossil fuels) activities are to be communicated through various platforms to reach the information regarding the activities undertaken by WBG research or work on social protection, 22% WBG.” creating jobs (Private Sector Respondent) WBG work or research on digital 21% development Other 5% 39 Q What topics were included in what you saw or heard? (Check all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=225) Climate Change Communications can be More Impactful when Related to Stakeholders’ Top Concerns: Air Pollution and Increase in Natural Disasters Nearly 7 in 10 respondents were very concerned about air pollution and the increase in natural disasters when it comes to the potential impacts of climate change in Nepal. Decreased crop yields/food insecurity and more frequent and 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 in Nepal. Not at all A little Somewhat concerned Very concerned Air pollution 68% Increase in natural disasters 67% Decreased crop yields/food insecurity 63% More frequent and severe floods 62% Diminished water supply for people and the economy 58% Unsafe drinking water 58% Land and forest degradation 57% Effects on public health 56% More frequent and severe droughts / heatwaves 55% Forest fires 47% Extinction of plant/animal species 46% Loss of jobs 46% Climate-driven migration 39% Q What is your level of concern for each of the potential impacts of climate change as it affects your country? (Percentage of Respondents, N=~460) 40 Message Recall Leads to Message Agreement and More Positive Perceptions of the WBG Respondents who recalled seeing or hearing The World Bank Group… something about the WBG in the last 30 days gave helps countries strengthen transport 7.4 higher ratings on most of the key messages infrastructure to support trade and growth* 6.8 regarding the WBG’s work. is supporting Nepal’s Green, Resilient, and 7.3 Inclusive Development agenda* 6.6 Respondents who recalled seeing or hearing something about the WBG recently also reported provides support to improve access and 6.9 significantly higher levels of familiarity (mean=6.6) quality of education in developing countries. 6.6 and gave significantly higher ratings for the WBG’s effectiveness (mean=6.7) and relevance (mean=7.0) helps countries boost climate resilience and 6.9 mitigate the effects of climate challenge 6.7 compared to those who reported not hearing or seeing anything about the WBG (means=5.3, 6.0, and 6.4, supports implementation and strengthening 6.8 Heard of fiscal federalism in Nepal* about the respectively). 6.2 WBG in supports countries to ensure transition to last 30 These findings suggest that respondents who are 6.8 days more diversified and cleaner sources of more frequently exposed to information about the energy 6.6 WBG, or who actively engage with WBG staff and helps strengthen human capital in Nepal 6.7 Did not through improving health care, nutrition, hear about knowledge work (read research papers, etc.) are 6.6 education, jobs, and skills. the WBG in also more likely to hold more positive views about last 30 the WBG’s work. 6.6 days promotes digital development in Nepal 6.3 6.1 helps create more and better jobs in Nepal 5.8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating Do you recall seeing or hearing anything about the WBG in the last 30 days? *Significantly different between recall yes/no Q To what extent do you agree with the following statements: Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree 41 More Frequent Engagement ➔ More Message Recall Respondents who recalled hearing something about the WBG in the last 30 days had significantly more frequent interactions with the institution across all channels. Yes – Recalled seeing/hearing something No – Did not recall seeing/hearing about the WBG in last 30 days something about the WBG in last 30 days Read a WBG post / tweet on social Read a WBG post / tweet on social 47% 35% 20% 30% media media Read or heard a story about the 40% 48% Visited a WBG website 17% 42% WBG in national or local media Visited a WBG website 35% 50% Read or heard a story about the 17% 47% WBG in national or local media Read or heard a story about the Read or heard a story about the 34% 45% 13% 47% WBG in international media WBG in international media Had an exchange with WBG staff, in Had an exchange with WBG staff, in person, virtually, or by 31% 43% person, virtually, or by 11% 27% phone/email/text phone/email/text Read a WBG e-newsletter 24% 42% Read some, or all, of a WBG 9% 45% research paper or publication Read some, or all, of a WBG Attended a WBG 24% 63% 7% 26% research paper or publication event/conference/seminar/workshop Attended a WBG 18% 53% Read a WBG e-newsletter 7% 31% event/conference/seminar/workshop Every few days/weeks Every few months Every few days/weeks Every few months Over the past SIX MONTHS, on average how often did you do any of the following related to the WBG? (Percentage of Respondents, N=~416) Do you recall Q seeing or hearing anything about the WBG in the last 30 days? (Yes N=~204; No N=~210) 42 43 Demographics of the Sample and Detailed Methodology Demographics of the Sample Which of the following best describes Currently, do you your current affiliation? (N=458) professionally Public sector governance, anti-corruption 12% collaborate/ work with the WBG in Yes Education 9% 39% your country? Generalist (specialize in multiple sectors) 8% (N=496) Finance and markets 7% No Macroeconomics, fiscal management 6% 61% Health 5% Agriculture and food security 5% Urban development 5% Energy / Extractives 5% Gender 4% Social protection, labor policies, jobs 4% Which of the The World Bank (IDA) 78% following agencies Environment / Natural resource management 4% of the WBG do None of the above 3% IFC 15% you primarily Digital development 2% collaborate/work Trade 2% with in Nepal? MIGA 1% Climate change 2% (N=189) Disaster risk management 2% ICSID 1% Transport 1% Water, sanitation 1% None of the above, I do not currently collaborate 6% Other 13% with the WBG None of the above 1% 44 Demographics of the Sample Non-binary Junior level 1% Within your 3% What’s your organization, would gender? Mid-level (N=457) you describe staff Female yourself as… ? 14% 28% (N=431) Senior level Mid-level 57% decision-maker / manager Male 26% 71% What’s your age? Which best represents your geographic location? 25 and under 4% (N=459) (N=456) 26-35 12% Bagmati Province 43% Kathmandu 23% 36-45 29% Koshi Province 9% Gandaki Province 8% 46-55 31% Lumbini Province 7% Madhesh Province 6% 56 and above 23% Sudurpashchim Province 3% Karnali Province 2% 45 Detailed Methodology From June 2023 to August 2023, a total of 1,106 stakeholders of the WBG in Nepal were invited to provide their opinions about the WBG’s work in the country by participating in a Percentage of Respondents FY 2019 FY 2023 Country Opinion Survey (COS). A list of potential participants was compiled by the WBG Government Principals: Office of the country team and the fielding agency. Participants were drawn from the Office of the President, President, Prime Minister, Minister, 15% 7% Prime Minister, Minister, and Parliament, Government Institutions, Local Governments, Parliamentarian Bilateral/ Multilateral Agencies, Private Sector, Civil Society, Academia, University Students Government Institutions: Employee of a and the Media. Ministry, Department, Project Implementation Unit, Independent Government Institution, 15% 20% Of these stakeholders, 497 participated in the survey (45% response rate). Respondents Judiciary, State-Owned Enterprise completed the questionnaires online or through computer-assisted interviews. Local Government 20% 10% The results of this year’s survey were compared to the FY19 Survey with a response Bilateral/Multilateral Agency: Embassy, rate of 65% (N=421). Development Organization, Development 5% 17% Bank, UN Agency Comparing responses across Country Surveys reflects changes in attitudes over time, but also changes in respondent samples, changes in methodology, and changes to the survey Civil Society Organization: NGOs, Community-Based Organization, Private instrument itself. Only questions with similar response scales/options were analyzed to reduce Foundation, Professional /Trade Association, 21% 14% the latter factor's influence. This year’s survey saw an increased outreach to and/or response Faith-Based Group, Youth Group from bilateral/multilateral agencies, but a decrease from local governments and civil society. Private Sector: Private Company, Financial Additionally, a new group of university students was invited to participate in the survey. These Sector Organization, Private Bank 12% 17% differences in stakeholder composition between the two years should be taken into Academia/Research Institute/Think Tank, consideration when interpreting the results of the past-year comparison analyses. University Students 7% 10% Media 2% 5% Key statistically significant findings (tested at the research standard of p < .05) are noted throughout the report. University Students - 4% Breakdowns for individual questions by stakeholder group can be found in the “Nepal COS Other 3% 1% FY23 Appendices with data breakdowns.xlsx” file published in the WBG Microdata Library, Total Number of Respondents 404 495 along with the survey microdata and this report. 46 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 is highlighted in red below. A2_5. To what extent do you trust the World Bank Group to do what is right? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree A3. How effective has the World Bank Group been in achieving development results in Nepal? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements about the WBG’s work in Nepal? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree A4. The World Bank Group currently plays a relevant role in development in Nepal. A5. The World Bank Group’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Nepal. A7. To what extent does the World Bank Group influence the development agenda in Nepal? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree A8. How significant a contribution do you believe the World Bank Group's knowledge work and activities make to development results in your country? Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant To what extent is the World Bank Group an effective development partner in Nepal, in terms of each of the following? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree C2. Responsiveness to needs C3. Access to WBG staff and experts C4. Flexibility when circumstances change C5. Being a long-term partner To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Nepal, in terms of collaborating with the following groups: Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree C7_1.Collaboration with the national government C7_6.Collaboration with the private sector C7_7.Collaboration with civil society C7_8.Collaboration with other donor and development partners To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree C8_1. The WBG’s financial instruments meet the needs of Nepal (i.e., investment lending, Development Policy Loan, Trust Funds, Program-for-Results). C10_1. I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s advisory services and analytical work in Nepal. C10_4. The WBG’s advice and recommendations are tailored to Nepal’s context. 47 Thank you For more information about this report or the Country Opinion Survey program, please contact: Svetlana Markova smarkova@worldbankgroup.org