FY 2023 São Tomé and Príncipe Country Opinion Survey Report ECR Business Intelligence Team | November 2023 Acknowledgements The São Tomé and Príncipe (STP) 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 São Tomé and Príncipe country team and independent fielding agency, AGORA Consultoria e Serviços. In particular, BI is grateful for the support from Ana Maria Carvalho (Senior Operations Officer) and Wilson Peril Mbanino Piassa (External Affairs Associate) who coordinated the survey- related activities from Luanda, Angola. 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 World Bank Group’s Knowledge Work and Activities 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 São Tomé and Príncipe 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 opinions do key stakeholders have of the WBG when it comes to its effectiveness, relevance, alignment with São Tomé and Príncipe’s development priorities, and other key indicators? Are opinions improving or declining? 3. Development Priorities: What areas of development are perceived to be the most important? Have the priorities changed over the past four years? How effective is the WBG perceived to be in these areas? 4. Engagement and Work on the Ground: What do key stakeholders value the most and the least when it comes to the WBG’s work in São Tomé and Príncipe? 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 Office of the President / Prime 22% Minister / Minister ▪ Fielded April 2023 through May 2023 ▪ 243 potential participants were asked to complete a mostly Government Institution 16% quantitative survey ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online, via email, or they Local Government 10% received the questionnaire by courier and returned it accordingly ▪ A list of names was provided by the WBG country team and supplemented by the fielding agency Civil Society Organization 10% ▪ Process managed on the ground by an independent fielding agency Private Sector 10% ▪ 202 participants (83% response rate) Bilateral or Multilateral Agency 9% ▪ 91% from São Tomé ▪ 15% currently collaborate with the WBG Office a member of the National 9% Assembly ▪ Compared to FY19 Country Survey Other 6% ▪ 351 participants (95% response rate) ▪ Surveys completed with a representative from a local fielding agency Academia 4% ▪ 20% collaborated with the WBG Media 4% Click here for details of the Respondent Sample and Methodology. Q Which of the following best describes your current affiliation? (Select only 1 response) (Percentage of Respondents, N=196) 5 6 Overall Context Respondents are Split over the Country’s General Direction 2023 Just under half of the respondents in STP believe that the country is headed in the right direction. A quarter of respondents indicated that the country is headed in the wrong direction. 45% ▪ Respondents in STP express more uncertainty this year. By comparison, in the FY19 Country Survey, about The right direction two-thirds of respondents indicated that they were “very optimistic” (15%) or “somewhat optimistic” (50%) about The wrong direction the future, and only 10% were not sure. 25% Not sure 30% Q In general, would you say that São Tomé and Príncipe is headed in ... ? (Percentage of Respondents, N=188) 7 Familiarity with the World Bank Group ▪ Year comparison: Respondents in this year’s Country All Respondents 5.4 Survey reported the same level of familiarity with the WBG as in FY19: Bilateral / Multilateral Agency 7.0 Mean familiarity: FY23 = 5.4 FY19 = 5.4 Government Institution 6.3 ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who collaborate with the WBG reported significantly higher levels of familiarity Government Principals^ 5.3 with the institution’s work: Mean familiarity: Collaborate with WBG = 7.2 Local Government 5.3 Do not collaborate = 5.1 Private Sector 5.2 Civil Society Organization 4.5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Familiarity Rating How familiar are you with the work of the World Bank Group in São Tomé and Príncipe? Significantly different between stakeholder groups Q Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Extremely familiar (N=195) ^ The group Government Principals includes respondents from the Office of the President / Prime 8 Minister / Minister and the Office of a member of the National Assembly The World Bank Group is among 7.1 The United Nations (UN) the Most Trusted Institutions in 6.7 7.1 São Tomé and Príncipe The World Bank Group* 6.3 6.9 Regional development banks* 5.8 Respondents gave the highest ratings of trust for the UN and the WBG, followed by the regional development banks 6.8 The International Monetary Fund* and the IMF. The National Assembly, the media, and local 6.0 governments in STP were considered significantly less 6.5 trusted among the institutions on the list. Private sector*^ 5.8 ▪ Ratings of trust in the WBG, regional development STP’s Central Bank* 6.4 5.4 banks, the IMF, the private sector, the STP’s Central Bank, civil society, and the national government were 6.4 FY23 Academia significantly higher in FY23 than in the FY19 survey. FY19 6.3 ▪ In FY23, respondents from the local government reported Civil society*^ 5.8 the highest levels of trust in the WBG (mean = 8.1), while respondents from the private sector and civil society had 6.2 The National Government* 5.4 lower levels of trust in the WBG (mean = 6.4 and 6.6, respectively). National Assembly 6.0 5.5 Media^ 5.6 To what extent do you trust each of the following groups to do what is right? Q Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree (FY23 N=~159; FY19 N=~264) 5.5 *Significantly different between years Local government ^ The private sector was compared to a mean score of the international private sector and domestic private sector asked in FY19; civil society was compared to a mean score of 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 international civil society and domestic civil society asked in FY19; media was compared to a Mean Rating of Trust mean score of domestic traditional media and their web presence, international media and their web presence, and web-based media. 9 10 Overall Attitudes toward the World Bank Group Key Performance Indicators Remain Similar to FY19 Influences the development 7.0 In FY23, respondents’ perceptions regarding the WBG’s agenda 6.8 influence on the development agenda, relevance to development in STP, alignment with the country’s development priorities, and effectiveness in achieving 6.8 results remained statistically similar to the FY19 findings. Relevance 6.7 ▪ Respondents from local government were most positive about the WBG’s work (mean across all questions = 7.6), while respondents from the private Alignment with development 6.3 sector gave significantly lower ratings (mean across all priorities FY23 6.0 questions = 5.4). FY19 Effectiveness in achieving 6.3 results^ 6.6 To what extent does the WBG influence the development agenda in São Tomé and Q Príncipe? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in São Tomé and Príncipe. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree How effective has the WBG been in achieving development results in São Tomé and 5.9 Príncipe? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective Ends extreme poverty The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for São Tomé and Príncipe. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work helps end extreme poverty in São Tomé and Príncipe. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 ^Compared to a mean score of the two questions asked in FY19: "Overall, please rate Mean Rating your impression of the WBG’s effectiveness in São Tomé and Príncipe. Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective; To what extent does the WBG’s work help to achieve development results in São Tomé and Príncipe? 11 Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree Local Government 7.0 Stakeholders Have More Trust 7.4 8.1 7.2 Positive Perceptions of 6.6 6.4 the WBG 6.7 Government Principals 7.5 Influences the 7.9 When comparing ratings of key performance development agenda 7.2 Government indicators among stakeholder groups, clear 6.4 Institution patterns emerge in their perceptions of the WBG 6.8 and its work. Local government respondents 6.7 Local tended to have the most positive perceptions of the 6.4 Government WBG and its work, while the private sector Effectiveness in achieving 7.2 respondents were significantly less positive results* 6.7 5.7 Bilateral / regarding the WBG’s effectiveness in achieving Multilateral 4.7 results, its relevance, and its alignment with the Agency country’s development priorities. 6.7 Civil Society 7.3 Organization 8.0 Relevance* 7.7 6.4 Private Sector 5.8 To what extent do you trust the WBG to do what is right? Q Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree 6.4 To what extent does the WBG influence the development agenda in São 6.9 Tomé and Príncipe? Alignment with 7.7 Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree *Significantly different development priorities* 6.9 How effective has the WBG been in achieving development results in São between stakeholder Tomé and Príncipe? 5.7 5.1 groups Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in São Tomé and Príncipe. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Mean Rating The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for São Tomé and Príncipe. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 12 Familiarity Leads to More Positive Perceptions Comparing ratings of key performance indicators 8.4 among respondents highly familiar with the WBG Trust* 6.7 (ratings of 8-10 on a 10-point scale) and those with 6.3 little familiarity with the WBG (ratings of 1-4 on a 10-point scale), we can see that the more familiar 8.1 stakeholders are with the WBG, the more positive Influence* 6.8 perceptions they have of the WBG and its work. 6.2 8.0 Meaningful engagement and outreach can Relevance* 6.7 increase positive perceptions. 6.0 7.5 Alignment* 6.3 5.5 Effectiveness in 7.2 achieving 5.9 results* 5.7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent do you trust the WBG to do what is right? Scale: 1 To no Q degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree To what extent does the WBG influence the development agenda in São High Familiarity (8-10) Some Familiarity (5-7) Low Familiarity (1-4) Tomé and Príncipe? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in São Tomé and How familiar are you with the work of the WBG in São Tomé Príncipe. Scale: 1Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree and Príncipe? The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for São Tomé and Príncipe. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree *Significantly different between levels of familiarity How effective has the WBG been in achieving development results in São Tomé and Príncipe? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective 13 STP Rated Lower than other Eastern and Southern Africa and IDA Countries on Most Key Performance Indicators Notably, ratings of trust in STP were on par with other International Development Association (IDA) countries** and ratings of influence were on par with those of other Eastern and Southern Arica countries surveyed in FY23*. 7.1 Trust 7.4 7.0 7.0 Influence 7.0 6.8 6.8 STP FY23 Relevance 7.1 7.1 Eastern & Southern Africa FY23 IDA FY23 6.3 Alignment 6.6 6.7 Effectiveness in 6.3 7.0 achieving results 6.8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating * FY23 Eastern and Southern Africa countries included South Africa, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. Q ** FY23 IDA countries included the Central African Republic, Djibouti, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Honduras, Kyrgyz Republic, Mali, Nepal, and Tanzania 14 Stakeholder Trends Across Performance Indicators Respondents from local government and bilateral / All Respondents 6.5 multilateral agencies had the highest mean ratings across the aggregated responses to the seventeen COS indicator questions whereas respondents from the private sector Local Government 7.5 had significantly lower ratings (they also had significantly lower ratings of familiarity with the WBG). Bilateral / Multilateral Agency 7.3 ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who collaborate with the WBG gave significantly higher ratings across all indicator questions compared to respondents who do not collaborate with the WBG: Government Institution 6.9 Mean rating: Collaborate with WBG = 7.5 Do not collaborate = 6.3 Government Principles 6.4 Civil Society Organization 6.4 Private Sector 5.8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Aggregated Indicator Questions Q All Indicator Questions were asked on a Scale from 1 to 10. Click here for details of these Indicator Questions. 15 16 World Bank Group’s Support in Development Areas Development Areas Health 60% for WBG Focus Education Energy / Extractives 43% 43% Transport 36% Health, education, and energy / extractives were identified as the top areas where stakeholders Agriculture and food security 35% would like the WBG to focus its resources going Digital Development^ 34% forward. Social protection 29% Water supply and sanitation infrastructure 28% Transport, digital development, social protection, and climate change have grown in Private sector development 26% High priority for private prominence significantly in FY23 (from under 6% of Public sector governance 20% sector (50%) respondents selecting these sectoral areas in and civil Job creation / employment 18% society (44%) FY19). Urban development 17% Private sector development was an area of high Tourism development 17% priority for respondents from the private sector Climate change 12% (50%) and civil society (44%). Macroeconomic stability 10% Environment / Natural resource management 7% Notably, job creation and public sector governance were the second and third-most Gender equity 7% important priorities in FY19, while this year fewer Social Inclusion 5% respondents identified them as their top priorities Debt sustainability 5% for the WBG focus. Regional integration 5% Trade 4% Improving the banking system 3% Other 2% Which areas should the WBG prioritize in its work in São Tomé and Príncipe to have the most impact Q on development results in the country? (Choose no more than 5) (Percentage of Respondents, N=182) 17 ^ “Digital development” was compared to the “Information and communications technology” option in the FY19 survey. Effectiveness of WBG’s Finance / Institutions / Economic Growth Support in Sectoral Areas Improving the banking system 6.0 The WBG’s work in social protection and improving the banking system received the highest ratings of effectiveness in STP. However, ratings for the 5.7 Debt sustainability WBG’s work in several sectors significantly declined this year compared to FY19, including in top priority areas such as education, transport, and energy / 5.7 extractives. Macroeconomic stability 5.5 FY23 6.0 Public sector governance* 6.7 Human Development Social protection 5.6 FY19 4.9 Gender equity 5.9 Job creation / employment 5.9 4.9 Education* 6.9 Tourism development FY23 5.7 FY19 Health 6.0 Private sector development 4.8 4.9 5.5 Infrastructure Digital Development Transport* 5.5 Environmental Sustainability 6.9 4.9 Energy / Extractives* 6.3 FY23 5.9 FY23 Climate change* 4.6 FY19 6.9 *Significantly different Urban development 5.1 FY19 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 São Tomé and Príncipe? 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”) 18 19 World Bank Group’s Work and Engagement on the Ground Financial Resources are the Bank’s Greatest Value Providing financial resources 58% Financial resources were considered the WBG’s greatest value to STP by respondents in FY23, increasing significantly from 34% in FY19. Capacity development Bringing together different stakeholder 48% related to the WBG-supported projects was the most valued groups activity in FY19. In addition, respondents in this year’s survey considered the Capacity building and training 37% WBG’s ability to bring together different stakeholder groups of much greater value, and they identified it as the Providing advisory services and second most-valued activity this year, up from just 7% in analytics to support design or 15% FY19. implementation of policies Mobilizing third-party financial 11% resources Producing research on global 10% development issues Providing data and statistics 8% Other 2% Q When thinking about the WBG’s role in São Tomé and Príncipe, which activity do you VALUE the 20 most? (Choose no more than 2) (Percentage of Respondents, N=185) Perceptions of the WBG’s Responsiveness, Flexibility, and Accessibility Improved In FY23, respondents reported significantly more positive perceptions regarding the WBG’s responsiveness to needs, 7.8 flexibility when circumstances change, and staff Being a long-term partner 7.9 accessibility. Perceptions of the WBG as a long-term development partner remained consistently high. ▪ Respondents from bilateral / multilateral agencies gave the 6.5 highest ratings of the WBG’s responsiveness to needs Responsiveness to needs* (mean = 7.7), whereas respondents from the private 5.6 sector gave significantly lower ratings (mean = 5.9). FY23 6.4 FY19 Flexibility when circumstances change*^ 5.6 6.0 Access to WBG staff and experts* 5.2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in São Tomé and Príncipe, in terms of each of the following? Q Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree ^ Compared to the mean of institutional flexibility and flexibility to changes in the country context asked in FY19. 21 * Significantly different between years WBG as a Development Partner: Collaborating with Various Stakeholder Groups 7.2 The National government In FY23, the WBG received the highest mean ratings for its 7.3 collaboration with the national government, regional development banks, and other donors and development Regional development banks 6.6 partners. These perceptions were consistent with the FY19 (African Development Bank) findings. Other donors and development 6.6 partners 6.6 Ratings for collaboration with other stakeholder groups were somewhat lower, although perceptions of collaboration with 5.7 civil society and the private sector have improved Civil society* 5.1 significantly compared to FY19. 5.6 Local government ▪ Respondents from the private sector gave the lowest FY23 ratings for the WBG’s collaboration with various stakeholder groups (mean=4.9 across all groups). They 5.5 FY19 Parliament/legislative branch gave the lowest rating for the WBG’s collaboration with the private sector (mean=3.9). 5.5 Private sector* 4.8 5.5 Media 5.3 Academia 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in São Tomé and Príncipe, in terms of collaborating Q with the following groups? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree 22 *Significantly different between years Stakeholders want the Bank to Collaborate More with the National Governments and the Private Sector A majority of respondents in this year’s survey indicated that the WBG should collaborate more with The National Government 76% the national government and the private sector. Private sector 62% Top choice for the private In FY19, collaboration with the private sector was sector (90%) and also the top priority for respondents (57%). A Civil society (e.g., NGOs, civil society 30% Top choice respondents (79%) targeted outreach to this group would be advisable CBOs) for civil society respondents (74%) as they hold some of the most critical views of the WBG. Local government 29% Academia / think tanks / 24% research institutions Other donors and 22% Top choice for development partners bilateral / multilateral respondents (53%) Regional development banks 18% (African Development Bank) Parliament/legislative branch 14% Media 4% Other 2% Which THREE of the following groups should the WBG collaborate with more in São Tomé and Príncipe? Q (Choose no more than 3) (Percentage of Respondents, N=195) 23 24 World Bank Group’s Knowledge Work and Activities Respondents Believe the WBG Insists on Accountability Through its Lending Respondents gave the highest ratings for the WBG The WBG insists on 7.0 insisting on accountability through its lending. accountability through its Ratings for the WBG’s instruments meeting the needs lending. of STP and for the timeliness of its financial support were significantly higher in FY23 than in FY19. ▪ As in other questions, respondents from the private The WBG’s financial instruments 6.2 meet the needs of São Tomé sector tended to give somewhat lower rankings for and Príncipe.* 5.2 the WBG’s financial instruments, particularly for their competitiveness and for their meeting the country’s FY23 needs (mean = 4.7). FY19 6.1 The WBG provides financial support in a timely manner.*^ 5.2 The conditions of the WBG’s 5.8 financing are competitive compared to markets. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q ^Compared to “The World Bank Group disburses funds promptly” asked in FY19. 25 *Significantly different between years Most Respondents Have Not Used the WBG’s Knowledge Work Only about 26% of the respondents reported using the WBG’s Have you used the WBG’s advisory advisory services and analytical work (knowledge work) in the services and analytics in the past? past. ▪ Respondents from bilateral / multilateral agencies were by far most likely to have used the WBG’s knowledge work Not sure (75%) compared to respondents from all other stakeholder 15% Yes groups (under 30%). Respondents from Civil Society were 26% the least likely to use WBG’s knowledge work (16%). No 60% Q Have you used the WBG’s advisory services and analytics in the past? (Percentage of Respondents, N=196) 26 Stakeholders Anticipate Using WBG Knowledge Work In terms of the WBG’s knowledge work, respondents had I anticipate using the WBG's advisory 7.2 the highest levels of agreement that they anticipate services and analytical work in the future. using the WBG’s advisory services and analytic work in the future. In addition, respondents had significantly The WBG brings global expertise to São 6.9 higher levels of agreement that the WBG’s advisory Tomé and Príncipe as part of its advisory services and analytical work are timely than respondents services and analytical work. in FY19. WBG knowledge work significantly 6.8 contributes to development results in São However, the WBG received somewhat lower ratings for Tomé and Príncipe 6.6 its recommendations being tailored to the country’s context, and this year’s rating was statistically similar to 6.6 FY23 The WBG’s advisory services and analytical the one in FY19. work are timely.* 5.7 FY19 Respondents who had used the WBG’s knowledge work I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s 6.4 in the past had significantly higher levels of agreement advisory services and analytical work in São that the WBG brings global expertise to São Tomé and Tomé and Príncipe. Príncipe compared to respondents who had not used it. Their satisfaction with the quality of the WBG’s The WBG’s advice and recommendations 6.1 are tailored to São Tomé and Príncipe’s advisory services and analytical work was also context. 5.9 significantly higher. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating How significant a contribution do you believe the World Bank Group's knowledge work and activities Q make to development results in São Tomé and Príncipe? Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree ^Compared to "Are a source of relevant information on global good practices" and “Are adaptable to São Tomé and Príncipe’s sp ecific development 27 challenges and country circumstances”, respectively, asked in FY19. *Significantly different between years 28 Communication and Outreach TV was the Most Common Information Source Respondents most relied on television to get information about economic and social development issues. However, respondents from bilateral / multilateral agencies reported relying more on research papers / official statistics than other stakeholder groups, while respondents from local governments were more likely to use radio and social media. Top 2 Information Sources Bilateral / Government Government Multilateral Private All Respondents Principals Institution Local Government Agency Civil Society Sector Television* 80% 85% 77% 95% 47% 75% 83% Radio 52% 56% 52% 70% 24% 50% 39% Social media 48% 46% 39% 70% 29% 60% 39% Newspapers (Print or online) 42% 44% 55% 25% 41% 40% 50% Research papers / Official 33% 28% 45% 15% 76% 35% 39% statistics* e-Newsletters 6% 6% 10% 0% 6% 0% 17% Other 5% 2% 6% 10% 12% 5% 0% Blogs 2% 2% 0% 0% 0% 5% 6% Podcasts 1% 2% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% How do you get most of your information about economic and social development Q issues in São Tomé and Príncipe? (Choose no more than 3) (Percentage of Respondents, N=192) *Significantly different between stakeholder groups 29 Events, WBG Website, and Direct Contact were the Most Preferred for Obtaining WBG Information Respondents reported using a variety of sources to obtain information from the WBG, but most preferred WBG events, the WBG website, and direct contact with the WBG staff. Respondents from the private sector and bilateral / multilateral agencies preferred e-newsletters significantly more than other groups. Preferred WBG Channels Bilateral / Government Government Multilateral Private All Respondents Principals Institution Local Government Agency Civil Society Sector Event/conference/ seminar/workshop (in 56% 53% 56% 75% 59% 42% 61% person or online) WBG Website 53% 56% 47% 40% 59% 58% 78% Direct contact with staff (e.g., in person, 49% 40% 50% 70% 59% 63% 17% virtually, phone, email)* Social media 32% 35% 22% 40% 24% 47% 22% e-Newsletters* 25% 24% 25% 0% 53% 26% 56% Direct messaging (e.g., WhatsApp, 24% 20% 34% 20% 12% 21% 17% Telegram, Viber) Interviews and press conferences 17% 15% 22% 35% 0% 21% 6% Blogs 3% 2% 6% 0% 0% 5% 0% Podcasts 3% 4% 3% 5% 0% 0% 6% Other 1% 0% 3% 0% 0% 0% 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=191) *Significantly different between stakeholder groups 30 8 in 10 Engaged with the WBG in the Last 30 Days 82% of respondents recalled hearing or seeing something about the WBG in the last 30 days. Respondents from the private sector were the most likely to recall something (100%) whereas respondents from civil society were significantly less likely to do so (60%). Respondents reported seeing that information most often on television, radio, and in newspapers. Among respondents who selected “Social media”, the majority reported seeing something on Facebook. Television (TV) 79% Radio 52% Newspapers (Print or online) 40% Social media 39% 83% Event / conference / seminar 33% Direct contact with WBG staff 24% WBG Website 20% 36% e-Newsletters 8% 29% Direct messaging 6% 11% 11% 8% Other 4% Facebook WhatsApp YouTube Instagram Twitter LinkedIn Podcasts 1% Blogs 0% Do you recall seeing or hearing anything about the WBG in the last 30 days? (N=194) Q Where do you recall seeing or hearing this information? (Check all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N= 158) 31 What social media platforms do you recall seeing this information on? (Check all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=89) WBG Work on Energy and Climate Change were Most Commonly Recalled Topics Respondents most frequently recalled WBG work or WBG work or research on energy research on energy and climate change. (increasing energy supply, reducing 54% dependence of fossil fuels) ▪ Respondents from bilateral / multilateral agencies were significantly less likely to recall WBG work on climate WBG work or research on climate 51% change (21%) whereas respondents from civil society change (mitigation, adaptation) were more likely to do so (75%) WBG global and regional economic 32% forecasts WBG research or work in support for education systems in developing 29% countries WBG work to provide debt relief for 27% developing countries WBG work or research on food insecurity 22% Other 13% 32 Q What topics were included in what you saw or heard? (Check all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=153) Climate Change Communications can be More Impactful when Related to Stakeholders’ Top Concern: Diminished Water Supply About three-quarters of respondents were very concerned about diminished water supply for people and the economy when it comes to the potential impacts of climate change in STP. Unsafe drinking water as well as increasing erosion of shoreline 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 STP. Not at all A little Somewhat concerned Very concerned Diminished water supply for people and the economy 74% Unsafe drinking water 70% Increase erosion of shoreline 69% Land and forest degradation 62% Decreased crop yields/food insecurity 59% Loss of jobs 55% Increase in natural disasters 53% Effects on public health 52% More frequent and severe floods 51% More frequent and severe droughts / heatwaves 42% Extinction of plant/animal species 40% Air pollution 34% Forest fires 17% Climate-driven migration 14% 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=~184) 33 Message Recall Leads to More Positive Perceptions of the WBG Respondents who recalled seeing or hearing something about the WBG in the last 30 days gave The World Bank Group… higher ratings on all key messages regarding the WBG’s work. helps countries boost climate resilience and 7.2 mitigate the effects of climate challenge 6.3 Respondents who recalled seeing or hearing something about the WBG recently also reported significantly higher levels of familiarity with the provides support to improve access and 7.1 WBG’s work (mean=5.6 vs 4.3 of those who do not quality of education in developing recall WBG-related messages). countries.* 5.9 In addition, respondents who recalled WBG-related messages gave significantly higher ratings for the supports countries to ensure transition to 7.0 WBG’s effectiveness (mean=6.5), relevance more diversified and cleaner sources of energy* 6.0 (mean=7.0), alignment (mean=6.7), and influence (mean=7.2) compared to those who reported not hearing or seeing anything about the WBG recently helps address the current food crisis and 6.8 Heard about (means=4.9, 5.6, 4.6, and 6.0, respectively). enables greater preparedness to future the WBG in food security crises 6.1 last 30 days These findings suggest that respondents who are more frequently exposed to information Did not hear about the WBG, or who actively engage with is committed to comprehensive debt 6.6 about the solutions that bring significant benefits to WBG in last WBG staff and knowledge work (read research people in poor countries 5.6 30 days papers, etc.) are also more likely to hold more positive views about the WBG’s work. 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? Q To what extent do you agree with the following statements: Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree *Significantly different between recall yes/no 34 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 something about the WBG in last 30 days about the WBG in last 30 days Read or heard a story about the Read or heard a story about the 63% 31% 31% 56% WBG in national or local media WBG in international media Read or heard a story about the Read or heard a story about the 60% 32% 24% 62% WBG in international media WBG in national or local media Read a WBG post / tweet on social Read a WBG post / tweet on social 34% 29% 13% 39% media media Had an exchange with WBG staff, in person, virtually, or by 31% 30% Read a WBG e-newsletter 9% 19% phone/email/text Visited a WBG website 30% 33% Read some, or all, of a WBG 9% 52% research paper or publication Read some, or all, of a WBG 24% 53% Visited a WBG website 9% 35% research paper or publication Attended a WBG Had an exchange with WBG staff, in 21% 43% person, virtually, or by 6% 22% event/conference/seminar/workshop phone/email/text Read a WBG e-newsletter 17% 34% Attended a WBG 3% 35% event/conference/seminar/workshop Every few days/weeks Every few months Every few days/weeks Every few months Q Over the past SIX MONTHS, on average how often did you do any of the following related to the WBG? (Percentage of Respondents, N=~173) 35 36 Sample Demographics and Detailed Methodology Sample Demographics Which of the following is the primary specialization Currently, do you of your work? (N=180) Yes professionally 15% Other 23% collaborate/ work with the WBG in Education 16% your country? (N=198) None of the above 10% Public sector governance, anti-corruption 9% Respondents from bilateral/multilateral agencies were significantly more likely to Health 8% indicate that they collaborate with the WBG No (44%) compared to respondents from other 85% stakeholder groups. Finance and markets 8% Macroeconomics, fiscal management 6% Generalist (specialize in multiple sectors) 5% Which of the Social protection, labor policies, jobs 4% following agencies of the WBG do World Bank (IDA) 89% Agriculture and food security 3% you primarily Gender 3% collaborate/work with in São Tomé Trade 2% and Príncipe? Digital development 1% (N=27) IFC 11% Energy / Extractives 1% Environment / Natural resource management 1% Water, sanitation 1% 37 Sample Demographics Mid-level staff Within your Junior 12% What’s your organization, would level gender? you describe 4% Female (N=191) 28% yourself as… ? (N=189) Senior level 49% Mid-level decision-maker / Male manager 72% 35% What’s your age? Which best 25 and under 2% (N=195) represents your geographic São Tomé 91% 26-35 9% location? (N=193) 36-45 38% 46-55 34% Príncipe 9% 56 and above 17% 38 Detailed Methodology Percentage of Respondents FY 2019 FY 2023 From April 2023 to May 2023, a total of 243 stakeholders of the WBG in STP were invited to provide their opinions about the WBG’s work in the country by participating in a Country Opinion Survey Government Principals: Office of the President, Prime Minister, Minister, Office of 19% 31% (COS). Participants were drawn from the Office of the President, Prime Minister, Minister, Office of a a member of the National Assembly member of the National Assembly, Government Institutions, Local Governments, Bilateral/ Multilateral Agencies, Private Sector, Civil Society, Academia, and the Media. Government Institutions: Employee of a Ministry, Department, Project Implementation Unit, Independent 26% 16% A total of 202 stakeholders participated in the survey (83% response rate). Respondents received Government Institution, Judiciary, the questionnaires via courier and returned them accordingly or they completed the questionnaires State-Owned Enterprise online. Local Government 11% 10% The results of this year’s survey were compared to the FY19 COS Survey with a response rate Bilateral/Multilateral Agency: Embassy, of 95% (N=334). Development Organization, Development 3% 9% 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 instrument itself. Civil Society: NGOs, Community-Based Organization, Private Foundation, To reduce the influence of the latter factor, only those questions with similar response scales/options Professional / Trade Association, 15% 10% were analyzed. This year’s survey saw an increased outreach to and/or response from government Faith-Based Group, Youth Group principals and bilateral / multilateral agencies, but decreased responses from government institutions, civil society, and the private sector. These differences in stakeholder composition between the two Private Sector: Private Company, Financial 14% 10% Sector Organization, Private Bank years should be taken into consideration when interpreting the results of the past-year comparison analyses. Academia/Research Institute/Think Tank 2% 4% Key statistically significant findings (tested at the research standard of p < .05) are noted throughout Media 6% 4% the report. Other 4% 6% Breakdowns for individual questions by stakeholder group can be found in the “São Tomé and Príncipe COS FY23 Appendices with data breakdowns.xlsx” file published in the WBG Microdata Library, along Total Number of Respondents 325 196 with the survey microdata and this report. 39 Indicator Questions Every country that engages in the Country Opinion Survey (COS) must include specific indicator questions, several of which are aggregated for the World Bank Group’s annual Corporate Scorecard and are highlighted in red below. 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 São Tomé and Príncipe? 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 São Tomé and Príncipe? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree A4. The World Bank Group currently plays a relevant role in development in São Tomé and Príncipe. A5. The World Bank Group’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for São Tomé and Príncipe. A7. To what extent does the World Bank Group influence the development agenda in São Tomé and Príncipe? 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 São Tomé and Príncipe, 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 São Tomé and Príncipe, 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_5.Collaboration with the private sector C7_6.Collaboration with civil society C7_7.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 São Tomé and Príncipe (i.e., investment lending, Development Policy Loan, T rust Funds, Program-for-Results). C10_1. I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s advisory services and analytical work in São Tomé and Príncipe. 40 C10_4. The WBG’s advice and recommendations are tailored to São Tomé and Príncipe’s context. Thank you For more information about this report or the Country Opinion Survey program, please contact: Svetlana Markova smarkova@worldbankgroup.org