World Bank's Independent Evaluation Group offers some advice to the new President

20 July 2007

Africa, middle-income countries and cross-border problems are but some of the issues needing Robert Zoellick's attention.

New leadership offers the opportunity for change, a July 2 letter from the Director-General of the World Bank's Independent Evaluation Group (IEG) to President Zoellick begins. 

"The [World Bank] Group has a unique combination of skills and experience, and a strong financial base..." the Director-General writes. But the institution is in need of bold reforms to deliver results.

The group offers recommendations in seven areas:

1. Africa and low-income countries. The Bank must continue to prioritize Africa, and explore why development results have been weaker in the region. Rural development programs need to be better integrated, and programs in fragile states should be selectively strengthened.  
2. Middle-income countries. The Bank should more aggressively introduce new financial instruments and increase its use of the 'country systems' approach.
3. Cross-border problems. Country, regional and global programs need to be better linked. Cross-border initiatives need to supplement the current country focus.
4. Sustainable development and climate change should constitute a new third pillar in the Bank's poverty reduction strategies, alongside investment climate and social empowerment. 
5. Governance and anti-corruption initiatives should be well-integrated into country and thematic programs. In-country demand for good governance is critical.
6. Work across functional boundaries. The Bank should promote collaboration across the World Bank, IFC and MIGA.
7. An early internal governance review is important, in collaboration with the Board.

Robert Zoellick assumed leadership of the World Bank earlier this summer, following the departure of Paul Wolfowitz. Many have been watching for early signs of the new President's priorities for the institution.