FY 2024 Papua New Guinea
Country Opinion Survey Report
ECR Business Intelligence Team | September 2024
Acknowledgements
The PNG 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 PNG country team and
independent field agency, Tebbutt Research Pty Limited. In particular, BI is grateful for
the support from Ruth Moiam (External Affairs Officer), who coordinated the survey-
related activities from Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.
Contents
Objectives
Methodology Overview
Overall Context
Overall Attitudes Toward the World Bank Group
World Bank Group’s Support for Development Areas
World Bank Group’s Engagement on the Ground in PNG
World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work
The Future Role of the World Bank Group in PNG
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 PNG
perceive the WBG. The survey explored the following questions:
1. Overall Context: How familiar are they with the WBG? How much do they trust the WBG?
2. Key Indicators: What opinion do key stakeholders have of the WBG regarding its effectiveness, relevance, alignment
with PNG’s development priorities, and other key indicators? Are opinions improving or declining?
3. Development Priorities: What areas of development are perceived to be the most important? Have the priorities
changed over the past three years? How effective is the WBG perceived to be in these areas?
4. Engagement on the Ground: How is the WBG perceived as a development partner in PNG? Are opinions improving
or declining?
5. Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work: What do key stakeholders value the most regarding the WBG’s
work in PNG? What opinion do key stakeholders have of WBG financial instruments and knowledge products? Are opinions
improving or declining? What are stakeholders’ suggestions for improving WBG’s effectiveness?
6. Communication and Outreach: What are the preferred communication channels? Are there differences among
stakeholder groups in terms of preferred channels?
7. Message Recall: What key topics that the WBG communicates do stakeholders recall? Is there a relationship between
message recall and views of the WBG’s work?
4
Methodology Overview
Government Institution 45%
▪ Fielded June – July 2024
▪ 632 potential participants were asked to complete a mostly Bilateral / Multilateral Agency 21%
quantitative survey
▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online
Private Sector 14%
▪ List of names provided by the WBG country team and
supplemented by the field agency
▪ Process managed on the ground by the field agency Local Government 9%
▪ 219 participants (35% response rate) Civil Society Organization 5%
▪ 76% from Port Moresby (National Capital District)
▪ 76% currently collaborate with the WBG Media 2%
▪ Compared to FY21 Country Survey
Academia / Research Centers 2%
▪ 65 participants (53% response rate)
▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online Office of a Parliamentarian
(National Parliament / Legislative 1%
▪ 70% collaborated with the WBG body)
Office of the Prime Minister,
Click here for details of the Respondent Sample and Methodology. <1%
Minister
What is your primary professional affiliation? (Select only 1 response)
Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=219)
5
6
Overall Context
“WB needs to be culturally, socially, and politically aware of the diverseness of PNG. While WB has
international experiences, these may not be applicable to the PNG context unless an extensive
assessment is done taking into account the cultural, social, and political dynamics in order to put a
program that is relevant and tailored to our situation.” (Government Institution Respondent)
“Understanding PNG context, which is so rich and diverse, is the greatest challenge to overcome. Each
province, district, village, tribe, clan, family, and individual is unique. For the strategy and objectives to
be effective, focus on the multitude who will make it work. The bottom-up approach is time-consuming,
has enormous logistical constraints, is resource-heavy, and so forth. However, when delivered through
the appropriate mechanism, with the right personnel who are equipped and well-trained, the PNG
development index can improve.”
(Civil Society Respondent)
Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in PNG? (N=167)
Significantly Improved Familiarity with the WBG
▪ Comparison of FY21 and FY24: Respondents in this year’s
Country Survey reported significantly higher levels of All Respondents 7.1
familiarity with the World Bank Group (WBG) compared to
respondents in the FY21 Country Survey:
Mean familiarity: FY24 = 7.1
Bilateral / Multilateral Agency 7.5
FY21 = 6.1
▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who indicated
Government Institution 7.3
that they collaborate with the WBG reported significantly
higher levels of familiarity with the institution’s work:
Mean familiarity: Collaborate with WBG = 7.4
Local Government 6.7
Do not collaborate = 5.9
▪ Stakeholders: Respondents from bilateral/multilateral
agencies indicated the highest levels of familiarity with the Private Sector 6.7
WBG, whereas respondents from the broader civil society
reported significantly lower levels of familiarity with the work of
the WBG.
Broader Civil Society 5.8
Note: Broader Civil Society included respondents from Civil Society
Organizations, Academia / Research Centers, and Media.
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 PNG? 7
Q Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Very familiar Significant difference between stakeholder groups
Stakeholders Most Familiar with the WBG
▪ Respondents in this year’s Country Survey were asked to
indicate their familiarity with the work of several international World Bank Group 7.1
organizations and the World Bank Group. Of these
organizations, respondents in PNG indicated the highest
levels of familiarity with the work of the WBG, followed by the
United Nations (UN) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). United Nations 6.3
Respondents were least familiar with the work of the Asian
Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) in PNG.
Asian Development Bank
6.1
(ADB)
European Union 5.5
International Monetary Fund 4.9
Asian Infrastructure Investment
3.6
Bank (AIIB)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Mean Rating of Familiarity
How familiar are you with the work of these organizations in PNG? Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Very familiar 8
Q
The WBG Among the Most Faith-based institutions (e.g.,
churches)* 6.4
7.5
Trusted Institutions Bilateral development partners 7.5
7.1
World Bank Group 7.4
Respondents in PNG gave the highest trust ratings for 7.1
faith-based institutions, bilateral development partners, 7.2
and the WBG. Of note, trust ratings for faith-based Civil society (e.g., NGOs, CBOs) * 6.4
institutions, civil society, regional development banks, the 7.2
United Nations
private sector, the media, and district government were 6.8
significantly improved in FY24 compared to the FY21 7.2
Academia / research centers
survey.
Regional development banks 7.1
(e.g., ADB)* 5.2
Despite improved ratings compared to the FY21 survey,
local government was still the least trusted institution Private sector * 6.9
6.3 FY24
studied. FY21
Media* 6.7
5.9
▪ Regarding trust in the WBG, respondents from
government institutions had the highest trust ratings in International Monetary Fund 6.5
6.9
the WBG (mean = 7.8). In contrast, respondents from the
broader civil society had significantly lower trust ratings Bank of PNG 6.4
6.4
(means = 5.9).
National government 5.3
4.6
Provincial government 5.0
4.4
District government* 4.7
3.9
Local level government 4.6
4.1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
How much do you trust each of the following institutions to do what is right for PNG? Mean Rating of Trust
Q Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much *Significant difference between years 9
10
Overall Attitudes toward
the World Bank Group
“The WBG rep provides technical advice based on the daily observation of how the PNG officers do
business, how their job missions and annual plans are set or how the plans are executed and
reported...” (Government Institutions Respondent)
“WBG can continue its good work on funding projects that really affect human lives to improve
standard of living and also educational programmes.”
(Government Institutions Respondent)
Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in PNG? (N=167)
Key Performance Indicators Significantly Improved
In FY24, respondents gave significantly higher ratings for Aligned with development 7.6
the WBG’s alignment with development priorities in PNG, priorities*
its relevance to development in PNG, its positive 7.0
influence on shaping development policy, and its
effectiveness in helping PNG achieve development results
7.6
compared to FY21. Relevant role in development*
7.0
Positive influence on shaping 7.5
development policy* FY24
6.5
FY21
Effectiveness in helping PNG 7.2
achieve results*^ 6.5
6.8
Helps end poverty in PNG
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Mean Rating
The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for PNG. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree
Q The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in PNG. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree
The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in PNG. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree
How effective is the WBG in helping PNG achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective
^Compared to a mean score of the two questions in FY21: "Overall, please rate your impression of the WBG’s effectiveness in PNG. Scale:
1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective; To what extent does the WBG’s work help to achieve development results in PNG? Scale : 1 To no
degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree 11
The WBG’s work helps end poverty in PNG. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree
8.0
8.7
Local Government Relevant role in development*
6.8
7.8
Respondents Have More 6.3
Government
Positive Views of the WBG Aligned with development
7.9
8.6 Institution
7.8
priorities*
6.9
6.3 Local Government
Comparisons of ratings for key performance indicators
between stakeholder groups show that respondents from 7.8
government institutions and local governments tended to 8.5
Positive influence on shaping
7.6
give higher ratings for many key indicators of the WBG’s development policy*
6.6 Bilateral /
performance. Respondents from the private sector and 6.1 Multilateral Agency
broader civil society reported significantly lower ratings.
7.8
7.6 Broader Civil Society
Trust in the WBG* 7.7
5.9
6.9
7.5 Private Sector
8.0
Effectiveness in helping PNG
7.0
achieve results*
6.4
6.2
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Mean Rating
Q For question wording and scales, please see the previous slide.
*Significant difference between stakeholder groups
12
Familiarity Leads to More Positive Perceptions
8.3
Comparing ratings of key performance indicators among Relevant role in development* 7.4
respondents highly familiar with the WBG (ratings of 8-
5.8
10 on a 10-point scale) and those with little familiarity
with the WBG (ratings of 1-4 on a 10-point scale), one
8.2
can see that the more familiar stakeholders are with the
Trust the WBG* 7.0
WBG, the more positive perceptions they have of the
WBG and its work. 5.7
8.1
Meaningful engagement and outreach can continue Aligned with development priorities* 7.5
to increase positive perceptions. 6.0
8.0
Positive influence on shaping
7.3
development policy*
5.7
7.8
Effectiveness in helping PNG
6.8
achieve results*
5.9
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Mean Rating
How familiar are you with the work of the WBG in PNG?
High Familiarity (8-10) Some Familiarity (5-7) Low Familiarity (1-4)
How much do you trust the WBG to do what is right for PNG? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much *Significant difference between
Q The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in PNG. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree levels of familiarity
The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in PNG. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree
The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for PNG. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree
How effective is the WBG in helping PNG achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective 13
PNG on Par with FY24 East Asia and Pacific Countries on
Key Performance Indicators
7.6
Aligned with development priorities
7.7
7.6
Relevant role in development
7.8
Positive influence on shaping 7.5
development policy 7.6
7.4
Trust the WBG
7.9
PNG FY24
7.2 East Asia and
Effectiveness in helping achieve results Pacific FY24
7.6
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Mean Rating
14
Q FY24 East Asia and Pacific countries: Cambodia, Lao PDR, Solomon Island, and Vietnam
Stakeholder Trends across Performance Indicators
Respondents from the local government had the highest
mean rating across the aggregated responses to the All Respondents 7.2
eighteen COS indicator questions. In contrast, the private
sector and broader civil society respondents had
significantly lower ratings.
Local Government 8.0
▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who
indicated that they collaborate with the WBG gave
significantly higher ratings across the aggregated
indicator questions compared to respondents who do not Government Institution 7.6
collaborate with the WBG:
Mean rating: Collaborate with WBG = 7.5
Bilateral / Multilateral Agency 7.3
Do not collaborate = 6.2
Private Sector 6.2
Broader Civil Society 6.2
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Mean Rating of Aggregated Indicator Questions
All Indicator Questions asked on a Scale from 1 to 10. Click here for details of these Indicator Questions.
Q Significant difference between stakeholder groups
15
16
World Bank Group’s Support
for Development Areas
“More emphasis on working with the private sector to increase employment opportunities for young
and disadvantaged Papua New Guineans.”
(Private Sector Respondent)
“Increased funding to support community-driven development concept in most remote
communities in PNG.” (Government Institution Respondent)
Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in PNG? (N=167)
Development Areas Agriculture / rural development 55%
for WBG Focus Education 51%
Public sector governance 41%
As in FY21, agriculture/rural development was the top area where
stakeholders would like the WBG to focus its resources in FY24. Transport infrastructure 33%
Education was of much greater priority in FY24, identified by more Water / sanitation 31%
than double the respondents compared to FY21 (23%), becoming
PNG’s #2 development priority. Health / pandemic preparedness 30%
Transport infrastructure and water/sanitation were also of much Energy 25%
greater priority, identified as a top priority by more than three times Environment / natural resource management 23% High for bilateral/
as many respondents in FY24 as in FY21. multilateral
Debt management 21% respondents(63%)
Climate change 19%
In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG
could do to help increase its effectiveness in PNG? Digital infrastructure development 19%
“WBG should consider direct involvement in areas of growth through Private sector development 18%
rural development, women and youth empowerment, infrastructure,
Gender equity 15% High for media
transport, energy sector, etc. in consultation with the government but respondents(36%)
avoid government influencing its areas of support.” Food security 14%
(Government Institution Respondent)
Jobs 13%
“Enforce the importance of accountability and impartiality at all Urban development 12%
Government levels.”
Gender-based violence/family & sexual
(Media Respondent) violence
12%
Social protection 11%
“Strengthen the Public sector to do their obligation properly in a
timely manner through DPL.” Disaster risk management 9%
(Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent)
Land and property rights 6%
Which areas should the WBG prioritize to have the most impact on development results in PNG? Mining and extractives 3%
17
Q (Select up to 5) (Percentage of Respondents, N=216)
Effectiveness of WBG’s Sectoral Support
The WBG’s work in transport, rural development, and water supply Human Development
and sanitation infrastructure received the highest effectiveness ratings.
Of note, respondents in this year’s survey rated the WBG’s work in social Health 6.5
5.8
protection significantly higher than in FY21.
6.3
Gender equity
Infrastructure / Environmental Sustainability 5.6
6.1 FY24
Social inclusion 5.4
6.7 FY21
Transport*
5.5 6.0
Education 5.5
6.7
Rural development Social protection* 5.7
4.3
Water supply and sanitation 6.7
infrastructure 6.1 Finance / Institutions / Economic Growth
6.2 6.2
Agriculture and food security^ Public sector governance 5.6
6.3
FY24 6.0
5.8 Macroeconomic stability
Energy
6.2
FY21 Debt sustainability 5.9
5.4 FY24
Extractives^^ Trade 5.7
FY21
4.6
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Job creation / employment 5.7
5.0
Mean Rating of Effectiveness
Private sector development 5.6
5.8
*Significant difference between years 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
How effective has the WBG been at achieving development results in each of these areas in PNG? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective
Q (If you have NO exposure to/experience in working in any of the sectors listed below, please respond “Don’t know”)
^ compared to the mean of “Food security” and “Agriculture and rural development” in FY21 18
^^ compared to “Natural resource management” in FY21
19
World Bank Group’s
Engagement on the
Ground in PNG
“Engage actively with stakeholders as an authentic partner. Increase transparency so that
stakeholders know what your plans are. Try to share as much as you extract. Stakeholders often
feel that the relationship is one-way. Be sensitive to the use of terms that can be offensive
culturally.”
(Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent)
“To collaborate with local institutions in conducting research to inform decisions that WBG
wishes to make. Seeking views from local communities through research and stakeholder
consultations will help increase the acceptance of proposals and minimize potential rejection
offers to help.” (Academia Respondent)
Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in PNG? (N=167)
The WBG is Increasingly Perceived as an Effective Partner
In FY24, respondents view the WBG more as a long-term
partner that is responsive, open, accessible, and flexible.
Being a long-term partner to 7.9
PNG 7.3
In your opinion, what is the most important thing the
WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in 7.1
PNG? Responsiveness to needs in
PNG* 5.6
“The WBG should establish a strong collaboration with key
government and church agencies to bring its effectiveness in
PNG.” (Civil Society Respondent)
Openness (sharing data and 7.1
“Work more closely with the development partners, Districts, other information)* FY24
6.1
and NGOs/CBOs.” (Private Sector Respondent) FY21
“Partner with the local government in all Provinces, Access to WBG staff and 6.9
implementing the community-driven development approach. experts* 5.9
By doing so, the rural communities will take full ownership
and responsibility of beneficial projects implemented in their
communities.”
(Government Institution Respondent) Flexibility when circumstances 6.7
change in PNG*^ 5.6
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Mean Rating
To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in terms of the following? *Significant difference between years
Q Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree
20
^Compared to the mean of institutional flexibility and flexibility to changes in country context asked in FY21.
The WBG’s Collaboration Effectiveness
In FY24, respondents perceived that the WBG collaborated 7.9
National government*
significantly more effectively with the national government, 6.5
other development partners, and civil society than in Other donors and 7.8
FY21. Though not statistically significant, the ratings of the development partners* 6.1
WBG as an effective partner collaborating with the private
sector also increased. Academia / research centers
7.1
6.7
Provincial government
In your opinion, what is the most important thing the
WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in PNG? 6.7
Parliament / legislative branch FY24
FY21
“Intensive consultation with all relevant stakeholders is Private sector
6.5
required before a financing agreement is entered into. It is also 5.8
important to assess the risks to implementation and to ensure
the issue of ownership and sustainable to captured well with Civil society (e.g., NGOs, 6.5
CBOs)* 5.7
the implementing agency as well as the relevant
stakeholders.”
6.1
(Government Institution Respondent) District government
5.8
Local government
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Mean Rating
*Significant difference between years
To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in PNG, in terms of collaborating with the following
Q groups? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree 21
Stakeholders Want the Bank to Collaborate More with
the Private Sector
Respondents in this year’s survey indicated that, besides its Private sector 35%
partnership with the national government, the WBG should
collaborate more with local government, bilateral
organizations, academia, and the private sector. Provincial government 35%
In your opinion, what is the most important thing the Civil society (e.g., NGOs, CBOs) 28%
WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in
PNG?
Other donors and development
“Diversify its partners, switching its focus towards the 26%
partners
private sector and multilateral agencies.”
(Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent)
Local government 23%
“Get on the ground. Engage with local, reputable PNG
organizations to develop real-need programs with
measurable and sustainable goal.” District government 19%
(Civil Society Respondent)
“Liaise with NGO and the churches on development. Also Parliament / legislative branch 13%
work with Good reputation private companies to increase
WBG goals in PNG.” (Private Sector Respondent)
Academia / research centers 12%
In addition to its partnership with the national government, which of the following should the WBG collaborate
Q with more to have greater impact in PNG? (Select up to 2) (Percentage of Respondents, N=198)
22
23
World Bank Group’s
Financial Instruments
and Knowledge Work
“To get more funding and support the PNG. This is one of its kind and very effective in terms of
services which help the community and as all in the country.”
(Local Government Respondent)
“In my considered view, the World must be able to listen and work with the National Government to
fund high impact investments in Transport, Energy, Agriculture, Education and water and
sanitation. I would like to see World Bank increase its IDA resource envelope and be able to fund
impact projects that will transform our economy instead of funding small and less impact
projects.” (Government Institution Respondent)
Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in PNG? (N=167)
Financial Resources Financial resources (e.g., budget
support, investment lending, grants,
Considered the WBG’s
50%
trust funds)
Greatest Value Technical assistance and
implementation support (incl. 42%
project design and implementation)
In your opinion, what is the most important thing the
WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Capacity development and training 31% Of more value
PNG? to local
government
respondents
“Increase funding for marketing access. Rural roads, (53%)
bridges, footbridges, rural airstrip rehabilitation. Productive Knowledge and analytical products Of more value to
29%
Partnerships in Agriculture Projects and Matching Grant (e.g., data, reports, policy notes) bilateral/multilateral
respondents (57%)
Components to support thriving SMEs in the Agriculture
space.”
(Government Institution Respondent)
Development partner coordination 16%
“Increase its portfolio in health as the health burden in the
country has increased and the gains are high impact
programs.”
Convening / bringing together
(Government Institution Respondent) 10%
different groups of stakeholders
“WBG can provide soft loan facilities and link borrowers to
markets and supply chains and innovative ways to repay
Mobilizing third party financial
loans” resources (incl. both public and 10%
(Government Institution Respondent) private)
Which WBG instruments do you VALUE the most in PNG? (Select up to 2)
Q (Percentage of Respondents, N= 217)
24
The WBG is Perceived as Insisting on Accountability
through Its Lending
Regarding the WBG’s financial instruments, respondents had The WBG insists on accountability
8.2
the highest levels of agreement that the WBG insists on through its lending (e.g.,
accountability through its lending. The ratings of the WBG performance-based financing,
resources tied to results)
effectively monitor and evaluate its projects, and the WBG’s
Environmental and Social Framework requirements are
reasonable and have been significantly improved since FY21. The WBG effectively monitors and 8.0
evaluates the projects it supports
Of note, respondents from local government had significantly in PNG* 7.0
higher levels of agreement across all of the statements.
The WBG’s Environmental and 7.9
Social Framework requirements FY24
In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG are reasonable* 6.4
FY21
could do to help increase its effectiveness in PNG?
“If possible, I would like the World Bank to have an independent The WBG’s financial instruments
audit unit that can audit and participate in all critical activities of (i.e., budget support, loans, 7.2
government projects that use World Bank grants/funds, especially grants, trust funds) meet the
6.4
activities related to procurement/purchasing and construction of needs of PNG*
infrastructure to ensure that PNG, as well as the Lao people, are
benefited effectively and appropriately with the money invested,
in order to ensure the transparency and avoid the creation of The conditions of the WBG’s 7.0
additional debt and benefit a specific group of people.” financing are reasonable
(Government Institution Respondent) compared to markets 6.5
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Mean Rating
Q ^Compared to "The World Bank Group disburses funds promptly" in FY21
25
*Significant difference between years
68% of Respondents Used the WBG’s Knowledge Work;
WBG Knowledge is Increasingly Perceived Positively
Respondents had the highest levels of agreement that
^The WBG brings global expertise to PNG 8.2
the WBG brings global expertise to PNG. They are
as part of its knowledge work*^ 6.8
satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s knowledge work in
PNG and increasingly perceive that working with the
WBG increases PNG’s institutional capacity, that the I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s 8.0
WBG’s knowledge work makes a significant contribution knowledge work in PNG
to development results in PNG, and that the WBG’s
knowledge work is tailored and disseminated adequately. Working with the WBG increases PNG’s 7.9
Overall, the views of WBG’s knowledge work in PNG institutional capacity * 6.8
have improved significantly compared to FY21.
The WBG’s knowledge work make a 7.5
In your opinion, what is the most important thing significant contribution to development
the WBG could do to help increase 6.5 FY24
results in PNG.*
its effectiveness in PNG? FY21
“Provide capacity and education support to WBG projects The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to 7.4
implementation team in key areas of expertise.” PNG’s context*^^ 6.4
(Local Government Respondent)
The WBG’s publications are adequately 7.3
“Organize more combined trainings/workshops for the disseminated* 6.2
representatives of different organizations who are
responsible for the specific area (e.g., safeguard) to share
their experiences with regard to the bank's funded projects.” When I need to consult the WBG’s 7.0
(Government Institution Respondent) knowledge work, I know how to find it
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Have you ever used the WBG’s knowledge work, including participating in workshops or training programs? (N=195)
Q To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree
Mean Rating
*Significant difference between years
How significant a contribution do you believe the WBG’s knowledge work makes to development results in PNG?
26
Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant ^Compared to “Are a source of relevant information on global good practices" asked in FY21.
^^Compared to "Are adaptable to PNG’s specific development challenges and country circumstances" in FY21
27
The Future Role of the
World Bank Group in PNG
“It is critical to work with the government closely to make a positive and sustainable impact in PNG.”
(Bilateral / Multilateral Agency Respondent)
“Being clearer about the 1 or 2 things that the Government must do to advance the economic
development and prosperity of the nation. These can be short-medium term goals which the
Government is measured against and performance reported against. Similar to the IMF work and
associated benchmarks but much more focused.”
(Private Sector Respondent)
Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in PNG? (N=167)
How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses
Focus on rural development, build local capacity,
collaborate closely with the government, and better align with PNG’s needs.
Focus Area • Rural development
Financial • Balance portfolio among different
• Anti-corruption
Support
sectoral areas
Financial
23% • Agriculture and Infrastructure
• Provide soft loan facilities and
Support • Private sector
6% innovative ways to repay loans
Communication • Human capital
Focus
areas
• Increase the visibility of WBG’s work Results
Communication Engagement • Consult with various stakeholders
• Raise awareness of WBG’s mission • Partner more with local-level
8% 20% governments
• Collaborate closer with the private
Knowledge sector
Results • Robust M&E, effectively monitor the Engagement
10% WBG’s ongoing projects and funding
• Greater accountability and transparency Operational Operational • Tailored solutions to the country’s
Effectiveness context
Effectiveness • Align with government’s existing plans
Knowledge • Building local capacity 17% • Streamline the procedure and reduce
• More skill trainings/workshops process time
16% across all levels of government • Be flexible and apolitical
• Support knowledge sharing and • Wisely design projects’ size and
empower local specialists timeframe
In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG
Q could do to help increase its effectiveness in PNG? (N=167)
28
How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses
Focus Area Knowledge
“1. Assist the government revamp a meaningful and effective education system. 2. Develop a
more effective framework to develop the private sector to assist PNG become self reliant in “From the onset of a project run a workshop on what specifically needs to be reported on.
producing domestic goods and services to create broad based economic development, Especially when it comes to semi-annual or annual reports. Give a template and go through
fostering economic growth and employment opportunities.” the contents, so the vendors know what they need to be reporting on, and how to collect the
(Government Institution Respondent) data. Ongoing training and collaboration with the project team is needed for the success of
the project. ”
“Improve coordination between the Health Unit and Agriculture Unit of WB in PNG.
(Government Institution Respondent)
Unfortunately, it seems agriculture is not given priority as compared to health. In addition, the “Do more awareness and provide more training in terms of workshops and other capacity
Health Unit is dominating the major decisions without coordinating with the Agriculture Unit.” building programs.” (Academia Respondent)
(Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent)
“Focus more on rural development impact projects such as Health, Water Supply, Education, “Engage more capacity building trainings for wards on how to access Donor funds as this is
an essential tool anybody may lrean and develop its community.”
and promoting the empowerment of SMEs especially women in business”
(Local Government Respondent)
(Local Government Respondent)
Engagement
“More collaboration with the stakeholders is needed to understand the country's conditions better and ensure the programs/projects implemented are sustainable and can function after the
WB completes the project.” (Government Institution Respondent)
“In my opinion, improved coordination with the sub-national, districts and LLGs and private sector, effective coordination of development partner efforts, and more collaboration with other
development partners in the development space could increase WBG’s effectiveness in PNG.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent)
“Having a larger presence on the ground in PNG to support continuity of relationships and more regular field monitoring and evaluation of projects.”
(Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent)
In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG
Q could do to help increase its effectiveness in PNG? (N=167)
29
How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses
Operation Effectiveness Financial Support
“Integrate reform advocacy and conditionalities into loan agreements”
“Direct fund project to Local level government councilor and private sectors for effective
(Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent)
service delivery...” (Private Sector Respondent)
“In infrastructure development, World Bank is doing great and I cant comment much on that. Just
“There has been an increasing trend in WB operations in PNG of sourcing and utilizing that World Bank needs to raise its standard and support PNG like ADB is doing. While ADB is
highly qualified and experienced national experts in a variety of sectors. This has supporting huge investment projects in the Highlands Region, it is seen that such projects lacks
demonstrated the 'fit for purpose' approach and willingness of the WB to contextualize and in the coastal region where most of World Bank Programs are based in. Thus World Bank needs
strive for excellence in its potential for impact. I strongly encourage the WB to continue to to raise its bar and compete with ADB.” (Government Institution Respondent)
elevate this approach and utilize these experts as mentors for international consultants to
ensure appropriate inputs into strategies, plans, and implementation frameworks.”
(Bilateral/Multilateral Agency Respondent) Results
“WBG should work more with rural areas communities than the National Government and “Demand accountability and transparency on loans afforded to PNG government and public office
the Provincial Governments in PNG. WBG will need to fund where the need is and not institutions.” (Private Sector Respondent)
where funds are put for people to misuse. Projects should be created to train people in the “Involve more in promoting and enhancing PNG's governance regimes so that development assistance
rural communities to administer and build projects needed by the people.” from development partners such as WBG are transparent and deliver results.”
(Government Principal Respondent)
(Government Institution Respondent)
Communication
“Do press releases in the local media on how the WBG is involved in the country.” (Government Institution Respondent)
“While the World Bank works closely with the Government of the day, the citizens are not aware of the great work that the World Bank is doing. Information awareness among citizens will be
a good start. Set up a corner within the libraries and the universities will provide readily available to the students who can be able to know how the World Bank is supporting development
efforts in PNG and can be able to question the government of the day how this support can translate into development effectiveness” (Civil Society Respondent)
In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG
Q could do to help increase its effectiveness in PNG? (N=167)
30
31
Communication and Outreach
“WBG to carry out awareness and let people know of its aims and objectives and type of activities
carried out in PNG. Majority of people, especially in the rural population have no knowledge about
WBG.” (Media Respondent)
“Be visible in all its projects and programs so the GoPNG and its people can see and appreciate
the good work of the Bank in PNG.” (Government Institution Respondent)
Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in PNG? (N=167)
Direct Contact, e-Newsletters, and Events were Most Preferred
Methods for Receiving WBG Communication
Respondents prefer to receive communications from the WBG through direct contact with staff, e-newsletters, and events. Broader civil society and the
private sector respondents preferred events/conferences/seminars/workshops (in person or online) more than the other groups. Local government
respondents also preferred direct messaging significantly more than the other groups.
Preferred WBG Channel
Bilateral /
All Government Multilateral Broader Civil
Respondents Institution Local Government Agency Society Private Sector
Direct contact with staff (e.g., in person,
54.9% 54.0% 70.6% 65.9% 30.0% 50.0%
virtually, phone, email)
e-Newsletters 47.7% 46.0% 17.6% 53.7% 60.0% 50.0%
Event / conference / seminar /
46.6% 49.4% 29.4% 34.1% 65.0% 53.8%
workshop (in person or online)
Direct messaging (e.g., WhatsApp,
16.1% 19.5% 47.1% 7.3% 10.0% 3.8%
Telegram, Viber)*
Social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter) 15.0% 14.9% 23.5% 9.8% 20.0% 15.4%
Other 0.5% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 5.0% 0.0%
How would you prefer to receive communication from the WBG? (Select up to 2)
Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=193) *Significant difference between stakeholder groups
32
8 in 10 Recalled Information about the WBG Recently,
most often through Events or Direct Contact
79% of respondents recalled hearing or seeing something about the WBG recently. Respondents most often reported
seeing/hearing about the WBG through events/conferences/seminars (in person or online) and direct contact.
Event / conference / seminar 62%
Direct contact with WBG staff 61%
Newspapers (print or online) 40%
No
21% Event / conference / seminar 38%
Social media 31%
Do you recall
seeing or hearing WBG websites 31%
anything about
Television (TV) 23%
the WBG
recently? Radio 14%
Direct messaging 12%
Yes
79% Other 8%
e-Newsletters 8%
Blogs 4%
Podcasts 1%
Do you recall seeing or hearing anything about the WBG recently? (N=193)
Q Where do you recall seeing or hearing this information? (Select all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=153)
33
WBG’s Work on Human Capital and Its Economic
Forecasts were the Most Commonly Recalled Topics
Respondents most frequently recalled WBG work or research
Human capital (education, health) 48%
on human capital and its economic forecasts, followed by
ending poverty in developing countries and women WBG economic forecasts 39%
empowerment. Ending poverty in developing
34%
countries
▪ Respondents from local government are significantly more Women empowerment 32%
likely to recall WBG’s work on women empowerment (57%)
Climate change 30%
than respondents from other stakeholder groups.
Food security 25%
▪ Respondents from the private sector were the most likely to
recall WBG’s work on job creation/employment (41%), Debt relief for developing countries 24%
whereas respondents from bilateral/multilateral agencies Youth development 22%
were significantly less likely (3%).
Job creation / employment 22%
▪ Respondents from government institutions and the private
sector were significantly more likely to recall WBG’s work on Pandemic preparedness 18%
climate change (40% and 35%, respectively) than Changes to the WBG financial and
16%
operational model
respondents from other stakeholder groups.
Other 13%
Digital economy 13%
Oceans and the blue economy 9%
If you answered “Yes” for E2, what topics were included in what you saw or heard about WBG’s work or research? 34
Q (Select all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=152)
Climate Change Communications can be More Impactful when
Related to Stakeholders’ Top Concerns:
Land Degradation, Water Availability, and Coastal Flooding
The majority of respondents were very concerned about land and forest degradation in relation to the potential impacts of
climate change in PNG. Decreased water availability and coastal flooding were also of great concern to respondents. These
key areas of concern should be considered to make communications about climate change more impactful.
Very concerned Somewhat concerned A little concerned Not concerned at all
Land and forest degradation 70%
Decreased water availability / quality 69%
Coastal flooding due to sea level rise 69%
Increased erosion of shoreline 67%
More frequent and severe droughts 66%
More frequent and severe floods 65%
Loss of jobs 64%
Decreased crop yields / increased food insecurity 64%
Climate-driven migration 52%
Extinction of plant / animal species 48%
More frequent and severe heatwaves 47%
Air pollution 37%
More frequent and intense wild fires 32%
Q How concerned are you about the following potential impacts of climate change in PNG? (Percentage of Respondents, N=~185) 35
Message Recall Increases Familiarity and Leads
to More Positive Perceptions of the WBG and its Work
7.2
Familiarity with the WBG*
6.4
8.0
Relevant role in development*
6.7 Do you recall seeing
or hearing anything
7.9 about the WBG
Aligned with development priorities* recently?
6.9
7.8 Yes
Positive influence on shaping development policy*
6.3
No
7.7
Trust the WBG to do what is right for PNG
7.0
7.5
Effective in helping PNG achieve development results*
6.4
7.1
The WBG’s work helps end poverty in PNG*
5.9
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Mean Rating
These findings suggest that respondents who are more frequently exposed to information about the WBG or who actively engage with WBG staff
and knowledge work (read research papers, etc.) are also more likely to hold more positive views about the WBG’s work.
How familiar are you with the work of the World Bank Group in PNG? Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Extremely familiar
How much do you trust the WBG to do what is right for PNG? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much
Q Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree: The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in PNG. The WBG has a positive influence
on shaping the development policy in PNG. The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for PNG.
36
How effective is the WBG in helping PNG achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective
37
Sample Demographics
and Detailed Methodology
Sample Demographics
What is the primary specialization
of your work? (N=191) No
24%
Education 17% Do you
Generalist 16% collaborate/work
with the World Bank
Public sector governance 11%
Group (WBG)
Private sector development / trade 9% in PNG?
(N=219) Yes
Energy 7% 76%
Other 6%
Environment/natural resource management 6%
Health / pandemic preparedness 6%
Water / sanitation 4%
MIGA
Macroeconomics, fiscal/debt management 4% 3%
IFC
Transport 4% Which of the
18%
Climate change 3%
following WBG
agencies do you
Agriculture and food security 3%
collaborate/work
Urban development 3% with in PNG?
(N=166)
Social protection 2%
Percentages equal more than 100% World Bank
Legal / human rights 1% because respondents could choose (IDA)
multiple agencies within the WBG. 93%
Gender equity 1%
Digital development 1%
38
Sample Demographics (continued)
What’s your age? (N=191)
46-55 30%
36-45 29%
Female
39% 56 and above 29%
What is your
gender? 26-35 10%
(N=191) Male
61% Prefer not to specify 1%
25 or younger 1%
Port Moresby
(National Capital 76%
District)
Southern Region
(excluding National 8%
Capital District)
Which best represents
your geographic Highlands Region 7%
location?
(N=188)
Momase Region 5%
Islands Region 4%
39
Detailed Methodology Percentage of Respondents FY 2021 FY 2024
From June to July 2024, a total of 632 stakeholders in PNG were invited to provide their
Government Principals: Office of the Prime
opinions on the WBG’s work by participating in a Country Opinion Survey (COS). A list of Minister, Minister, Parliamentarian
2% 1%
potential participants was compiled by the WBG country team and the field agency.
Participants were drawn from the Offices of the Prime Minister, Minister, and Parliament, Government Institutions: Employee of a
government institutions, local governments, bilateral or multilateral agencies, the private Ministry, Department, Project Implementation
49% 45%
Unit, Independent Government Institution,
sector, civil society, academia, and the media. Judiciary, State-Owned Enterprise
Of these stakeholders, 219 participated in the survey (35% response rate).
Local Government 0% 9%
Respondents completed the questionnaire via an online platform.
The results of this year’s survey were compared to the FY21 Survey, which had a Bilateral/Multilateral Agency: Embassy,
Development Organization, Development Bank, 17% 21%
response rate of 53% (N=65). UN Agency
Comparing responses across Country Surveys reflects changes in attitudes over time as Civil Society Organization: Local and regional
well as changes in respondent samples, changes in methodology, and changes to the NGOs, Community-Based Organization,
survey instrument itself. To reduce the influence of the latter factor, only those questions with Private Foundation, Professional/Trade 2% 6%
Association,
similar response scales/options were analyzed. These differences in stakeholder Faith-Based Group, Youth Group
composition between the two years should be considered when interpreting the results of
the past-year comparison analyses. Private Sector: Private Company, Financial
22% 14%
Sector Organization, Private Bank
Key statistically significant findings (tested at the research standard of p < .05) are noted
throughout the report.
Academia / Research Center 3% 2%
Breakdowns for individual questions by stakeholder group can be found in the “PNG COS
FY24 Appendices with data breakdowns.xlsx” file published in the WBG Microdata Library, Media 5% 2%
along with the survey microdata and this report.
Total Number of Respondents 63 219
Q What is your primary professional affiliation? (Select only 1 response)
40
Indicator Questions
Every country that engages in the Country Opinion Survey (COS) must include specific indicator questions, several of which are aggregated
for the World Bank Group’s annual Corporate Scorecard and are highlighted in red below.
A1_6. How much do you trust the World Bank Group to do what is right for PNG? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much
A2. How effective is the World Bank Group in helping PNG achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective
A3. How significant a contribution do you believe the WBG's knowledge work make to development results in PNG?
Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant
To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree
A4. The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in PNG.
A5. The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for PNG.
A6. The WBG has a positive influence on shaping development policy in PNG.
A7. The WBG’s work helps end poverty in PNG
To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in terms of each of the following? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree
C1_1. Responsiveness to needs in PNG
C1_2. Access to WBG staff and experts
C1_3. Flexibility when circumstances change in PNG
C1_5. Being a long-term partner to PNG
To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in PNG, in terms of collaborating with the following groups?
Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree
C2_1. National government
C2_6. Private sector
C2_7. Civil society
C2_8. Other development partners
To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree
C4_1. The WBG’s financial instruments (i.e., loans, credits, grants, trust funds) meet the needs of PNG.
C6_1. I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s knowledge work in PNG.
C6_4. The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to PNG’s context.
41
Thank you
For more information about this report
or the Country Opinion Survey program,
please contact:
countrysurveys@worldbankgroup.org