{"rows":20,"os":0,"page":1,"total":15335,"documents":{"NzBmMDY3NDQ2ZjI5NTJiNjdlNmM1NGUyYzZlM2RkYzBhMDM1NzYzOQ2":{"id":"NzBmMDY3NDQ2ZjI5NTJiNjdlNmM1NGUyYzZlM2RkYzBhMDM1NzYzOQ2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/06/05/new-us-900-million-world-bank-financing-to-improve-iraq-s-road-connectivity-and-support-job-creation","count":"Iraq","descr":{"cdata!":"The Iraq Transport Economic Corridors (ITREC) project will support strategic investments in key road corridors that are critical to domestic mobility, regional integration, and long-term economic growth."},"keywd":"country:Iraq,regions:Middle East and North Africa,organization:World Bank Group,organization:World Bank,sites:world-bank,sites:world-bank-group,subject:transport,subject:infrastructure,subject:jobs and development","lang":"English","admreg":"Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, & Pakistan","title":{"cdata!":"New US$900 million World Bank Financing to Improve Iraq’s Road Connectivity and Support Job Creation"},"topic":"Transport,Infrastructure,Jobs And Development","proid":"P510293","unit":"World Bank Group,World Bank","cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/06/05/new-us-900-million-world-bank-financing-to-improve-iraq-s-road-connectivity-and-support-job-creation","lnchdt":"2026-06-05T09:17:00Z","regionname":"Middle East and North Africa","wcmsource":"cq5","country":"Iraq","countcode":"IQ","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" WASHINGTON, June 5, 2026 — The World Bank Board of Executive Directors approved yesterday a US$900 million financing package for a new project to help improve Iraq’s road infrastructure, make travel safer and more reliable, and create opportunities for people and businesses across the country. The Iraq Transport Economic Corridors (ITREC) project will support strategic investments in key road corridors that are critical to domestic mobility, regional integration, and long-term economic growth. Road transport accounts for more than 90 percent of transportation activity in Iraq, yet much of the country’s road network remains underdeveloped and vulnerable to deterioration, climate pressures, and road safety risks. Although most of the network is paved, a large share is estimated to be in moderate to poor condition, constraining trade, access to services, and economic opportunity. At the same time, the sector is an important source of employment, with road construction and rehabilitation generating jobs and supporting broader economic activity. The Iraq Transport Economic Corridors project will focus on priority investments along two strategic axes: a north-south corridor linking Baghdad to the Turkish border through Expressway 2 (E2), and an east-west corridor along Expressway 1 (E1) connecting Baghdad with Syria and Jordan. In its first phase, the program will finance the rehabilitation of key segments of E1, upgrades to selected roads in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, and the construction of an initial section of E2. Together, these investments will strengthen the operation and climate resilience of Iraq’s national road network and lay the foundation for future phases that can help mobilize private capital and expand the broader transport corridor agenda. The ITREC program is expected to benefit approximately 7.9 million people living along new or improved roadways, including around 3.0 million women and 1.5 million youth. These benefits will be felt across diverse regions of Iraq, from Baghdad to the Kurdistan Region and along cross-border corridors with Jordan, Syria and Türkiye. By improving connections between major population centers, industrial and agricultural areas, and religious tourism destinations, the project is expected to reduce travel times and transport costs, improve freight efficiency, and ease congestion on secondary and urban roads. The investments are also expected to enhance road safety, improve maintenance practices, and support economic diversification and access in sectors such as tourism, agriculture, health, and manufacturing. \"Roads are the backbone of the Iraq's transport system and key to broader connectivity and job creation,\" said Jean-Christophe Carret, World Bank Middle East Division Director. \"The ITREC project will help Iraq address critical infrastructure gaps. By investing in strategic economic corridors, the project will connect people to markets and services, strengthen regional and economic integration, and contribute to more inclusive and sustainable growth.\" The ITREC Project is designed as the first in a series of projects that will aim to address the challenges facing Iraq’s road sector in a sequenced approach to support a longterm reform and investment program. The results of pilot activities achieved under the first project will be evaluated and their design adjusted to inform future investments. Beyond physical investments, the project will support institutional strengthening and the preparation of future interventions to modernize Iraq’s road sector. This includes support for better road safety practices, climate-resilient asset management, and transport sector reforms to improve planning, financing, and long-term sustainability. The project will also support performance-based road maintenance contracts, an enabling environment for sustainable partnerships with the private sector and explore revenue generating opportunities. The project will be implemented by the Roads and Bridges Directorate under the Ministry of Construction, Housing, and Public Municipalities, with strategic oversight from a high-level steering committee including key national institutions and representatives from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq."},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" WASHINGTON, June 5, 2026 — The World Bank Board of Executive Directors approved yesterday a US$900 million financing package for a new project to help improve Iraq’s road infrastructure, make travel safer and more reliable, and create opportunities for people and businesses across the country. The Iraq Transport Economic Corridors (ITREC) project will support strategic investments in key road corridors that are critical to domestic mobility, regional integration, and long-term economic growth. Road transport accounts for more than 90 percent of transportation activity in Iraq, yet much of the country’s road network remains underdeveloped and vulnerable to deterioration, climate pressures, and road safety risks. Although most of the network is paved, a large share is estimated to be in moderate to poor condition, constraining trade, access to services, and economic opportunity. At the same time, the sector is an important source of employment, with road construction and rehabilitation "},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"Middle East & North Africa Afghanistan & Pakistan, MNA"},"MWI5ODMyNjY5ZGRhMGExZjM2YjFiMzRiODczNjg1MTcyZDA5NTFhYQ2":{"id":"MWI5ODMyNjY5ZGRhMGExZjM2YjFiMzRiODczNjg1MTcyZDA5NTFhYQ2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/06/05/world-bank-group-supports-resilient-municipal-infrastructure-to-modernize-cities-in-turkiye","count":"Republic of Türkiye","descr":{"cdata!":"With World Bank Group support, Türkiye will modernize urban infrastructure and services in the fast-growing cities of Antalya and Konya."},"keywd":"country:Turkey,regions:Europe and Central Asia,subject:urban development","lang":"English","admreg":"Europe and Central Asia","title":{"cdata!":"World Bank Group Supports Resilient Municipal Infrastructure to Modernize Cities in Türkiye"},"topic":"Urban Development","proid":"P509293","cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/06/05/world-bank-group-supports-resilient-municipal-infrastructure-to-modernize-cities-in-turkiye","lnchdt":"2026-06-05T03:35:00Z","regionname":"Europe and Central Asia","wcmsource":"cq5","country":"Turkey","countcode":"TR","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" WASHINGTON DC, June 5th, 2026—The World Bank Group approved a EUR 191.5 million (US$219.4 million) loan to Türkiye to modernize urban infrastructure and services in the fast-growing cities of Antalya and Konya, addressing a growing demand for public transport, clean water and sanitation, and efficient energy systems, while generating jobs along the way. The Green and Future Cities Project will be implemented through İller Bankası A.Ş. (ILBANK) with the guarantee of the Republic of Türkiye. Türkiye’s rapid urbanization has intensified demand for efficient and resilient municipal infrastructure. While fast-growing cities are central to the country’s economy, many face constraints in accessing long-term financing for major investments to support people and growing economic activities. “Türkiye’s cities are key drivers of economic growth and job creation but also face increasing pressures from rapid urbanization and climate change,” said                   J. Humberto Lopez, World Bank Country Director for Türkiye. “This project will help municipalities invest in modern, resilient infrastructure while strengthening their capacity to plan and finance sustainable urban development.” Planned investments include the expansion and modernization of public transport systems, such as tramlines and low-emission vehicles, as well as upgrades to water supply, wastewater treatment, and sanitation infrastructure. The project will also support measures to enhance energy efficiency and strengthen climate adaptation and resilience. These investments are expected to improve urban mobility, enhance environmental sustainability, and raise the quality of life for residents, while contributing to economic growth and job creation. The project will also provide technical assistance to ILBANK and participating municipalities to strengthen their capacity in project preparation, financial management, and sustainable urban planning. This will include developing pipelines of bankable, climate-smart investments, strengthen municipal financial and institutional capacity, and enhance long-term resilience to climate and disaster risks. “By combining financing with technical expertise, this project will help cities develop bankable, climate-smart investments and improve their access to long-term financing,” said Ahmet Kindap, Task Team Leader for of the Project. The project is also designed to help municipalities strengthen their creditworthiness and lay the groundwork for greater private sector participation over time. Aligned with Türkiye’s national development priorities, the project will support both mitigation and adaptation efforts. Investments are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and strengthen resilience to climate-related risks such as flooding, drought, and extreme heat. By improving infrastructure systems and service delivery, the project will help cities better withstand future shocks while promoting sustainable and inclusive urban growth. This project preparation benefited from technical assistance and grants from the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR)’s Japan-World Bank Program for Mainstreaming Disaster Risk Management in Developing Countries, supported by the Government of Japan."},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" WASHINGTON DC, June 5th, 2026—The World Bank Group approved a EUR 191.5 million (US$219.4 million) loan to Türkiye to modernize urban infrastructure and services in the fast-growing cities of Antalya and Konya, addressing a growing demand for public transport, clean water and sanitation, and efficient energy systems, while generating jobs along the way. The Green and Future Cities Project will be implemented through İller Bankası A.Ş. (ILBANK) with the guarantee of the Republic of Türkiye. Türkiye’s rapid urbanization has intensified demand for efficient and resilient municipal infrastructure. While fast-growing cities are central to the country’s economy, many face constraints in accessing long-term financing for major investments to support people and growing economic activities. “Türkiye’s cities are key drivers of economic growth and job creation but also face increasing pressures from rapid urbanization and climate change,” said              &nb"},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"Europe and Central Asia, ECA","funding_source":"IBRD"},"ODZkNjA0Y2ViNzY4ZmU0Y2I3ZTc4NmYxNGIzNDhlMzZhMzliMWMwMw2":{"id":"ODZkNjA0Y2ViNzY4ZmU0Y2I3ZTc4NmYxNGIzNDhlMzZhMzliMWMwMw2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/06/04/moldova-growth-and-resilience-development-policy-finance-operation","count":"Moldova","descr":{"cdata!":"The World Bank approved the Growth and Resilience Development Policy Loan (DPL) for the Republic of Moldova, aimed at strengthening competitiveness, job creation, efficiency and transparency of markets, as well as economic integration with the European Union."},"keywd":"country:Moldova,regions:Europe and Central Asia","lang":"English","admreg":"Europe and Central Asia","title":{"cdata!":"Moldova to Advance Reforms for Growth, Jobs, Resilience, and EU Integration with World Bank Support"},"proid":"P513997","cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/06/04/moldova-growth-and-resilience-development-policy-finance-operation","lnchdt":"2026-06-04T18:02:00Z","regionname":"Europe and Central Asia","wcmsource":"cq5","country":"Moldova","countcode":"MD","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" CHISINAU, June 4, 2026 – The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors today approved the Growth and Resilience Development Policy Loan (DPL) for the Republic of Moldova, aimed at strengthening competitiveness, job creation, efficiency and transparency of markets, as well as economic integration with the European Union (EU).  The $250 million DPL is the first of two operations that build on robust economic analysis, sustained reform momentum supported by prior DPLs, and close cooperation with the EU and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The DPL aims to assist the government in building resilience against future shocks and support the country’s EU accession path, complementing the EU’s Growth and Reform Plan for Moldova. It is closely aligned with the World Bank Group Country Partnership Framework for Moldova, which aims to enhance formal employment, improve human capital, and increase investments in resilience. \"A decisive reorientation toward productivity-led and inclusive growth will greatly help Moldova steer toward convergence to EU income levels. Moldova now has the unique opportunity to capitalize on the momentum of its EU candidacy, and the World Bank Group will continue to fully support the country’s ambitious reform program,” said Ulrich Schmitt, World Bank Group Country Manager for Moldova The loan supports reforms to improve competitiveness, efficiency, and market transparency through specific measures. These include more competitive and sustainable procurement practices, simplified business registration, and greater innovation and consumer protection in the banking sector, while at the same time promoting sustainable financing aligned with EU taxonomy standards. The program also aims to improve access to early childhood education and facilitate the formalization of temporary workers. Another set of reform actions aim to enhance resilience and economic integration, focus on integrating Moldova into EU electricity markets, modernize and improve efficiency of district heating, and embedding resilience in the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) corridor development. Since Moldova joined the World Bank in 1992, the Bank has provided over $1.8 billion to more than 45 operations in the country. Current engagements by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), members of the World Bank Group, include projects in the financial sector, private and public sectors advisory, and risk insurance."},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" CHISINAU, June 4, 2026 – The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors today approved the Growth and Resilience Development Policy Loan (DPL) for the Republic of Moldova, aimed at strengthening competitiveness, job creation, efficiency and transparency of markets, as well as economic integration with the European Union (EU).  The $250 million DPL is the first of two operations that build on robust economic analysis, sustained reform momentum supported by prior DPLs, and close cooperation with the EU and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The DPL aims to assist the government in building resilience against future shocks and support the country’s EU accession path, complementing the EU’s Growth and Reform Plan for Moldova. It is closely aligned with the World Bank Group Country Partnership Framework for Moldova, which aims to enhance formal employment, improve human capital, and increase investments in resilience. \"A decisive reorientation toward productivity-led and inclusive "},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"Europe and Central Asia, ECA","funding_source":"IBRD"},"OWNkNGRmZmI1NzFjNDFhZjc1OTUxYWM1MmUwY2I1YzQwNzg3YjI3Mg2":{"id":"OWNkNGRmZmI1NzFjNDFhZjc1OTUxYWM1MmUwY2I1YzQwNzg3YjI3Mg2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/06/04/world-bank-group-launches-ten-year-strategy-to-drive-jobs-and-prosperity-in-uganda","count":"Uganda","descr":{"cdata!":"The World Bank Group (WBG) Board of Executive Directors today endorsed a new Country Partnership Framework (CPF) for Uganda, a 10-year strategy (2026-2035) designed to accelerate a private sector-led economic transformation and expand opportunities for the country’s rapidly growing population."},"keywd":"country:Uganda,regions:Africa","lang":"English","admreg":"Africa","title":{"cdata!":"World Bank Group Launches Ten-Year Strategy to Drive Jobs and Prosperity in Uganda"},"cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/06/04/world-bank-group-launches-ten-year-strategy-to-drive-jobs-and-prosperity-in-uganda","lnchdt":"2026-06-04T14:16:35Z","regionname":"Africa","wcmsource":"cq5","country":"Uganda","countcode":"UG","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" KAMPALA, June 4, 2026 — The World Bank Group (WBG) Board of Executive Directors today endorsed a new Country Partnership Framework (CPF) for Uganda, a 10-year strategy (2026-2035) designed to accelerate a private sector-led economic transformation and expand opportunities for the country’s rapidly growing population. The CPF, developed in collaboration with the Government of Uganda and in consultation with other stakeholders, aligns with the country’s Vision 2040 and the Fourth National Development Plan. It reflects a shared commitment to turning Uganda’s strong growth potential, young population, and natural endowments into sustained improvements in productivity, incomes, and livelihoods. The creation of more and better jobs is at the core of the new strategy because jobs present the most effective pathway out of poverty and the strongest foundation for shared prosperity. With 600,000–700,000 young people entering the labor market each year, Uganda’s development challenge and opportunity lie in accelerating productivity and expanding access to higher‑quality employment across the economy. \"Uganda has extraordinary assets: a young population full of potential, abundant natural resources, and a government committed to long-term transformation,” said Francisca Ayodeji (Ayo) Akala, World Bank Country Manager for Uganda. “The CPF is our commitment to walk alongside Uganda over the next decade by investing in its people, infrastructure, and institutions that will power prosperity and translate growth into jobs and better living standards. When Ugandans work, families thrive and communities grow.\" The CPF is organized around four mutually reinforcing outcomes: strengthened economic governance, healthier and better-skilled people, better-connected communities, and a more productive and inclusive private sector. A defining feature of the new CPF is its emphasis on the One WBG approach – bringing together International Development Association (IDA) financing, International Finance Corporation (IFC) investments and advisory services, and Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) guarantees in a coordinated and strategic way. This method is designed to make WBG support more impactful, more efficient, and more responsive to Uganda's evolving needs. Over the next decade, the WBG will mobilize significant resources in support of Uganda's development priorities. Key targets include:doubling energy access to reach 50 million people by 2035, up from 25 million today;providing 22 million people with quality health, nutrition, and population services;supporting 10 million students with better education and skills;improving transport infrastructure to benefit 20 million people;extending access to financial services to 14 million people and businesses, including 9 million women; and100% increase in agricultural yields in targeted value chains. On the financial side, the WBG anticipates an indicative lending program of approximately $2 billion per IDA three-year cycle, building on an existing portfolio of $4 billion. The strategy also aims to catalyze up to $1.3 billion in private investment and mobilize an additional $2.5 billion from private capital markets. A strong private sector is the engine of lasting economic growth. Whereas IFC will support targeted private sector investments in a series of sectors, MIGA will leverage the WBG Guarantee Platform to complement these efforts by expanding its guarantees to help mitigate risks for foreign investors. Mitigating risks will strengthen investor confidence and unlock long‑term private capital for Uganda. This CPF provides the continuity needed to support complex reforms, strengthen institutions, and sustain impact, while retaining flexibility through periodic reviews to adapt to evolving circumstances.Contact World Bank Media Relations: press@worldbank.org"},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" KAMPALA, June 4, 2026 — The World Bank Group (WBG) Board of Executive Directors today endorsed a new Country Partnership Framework (CPF) for Uganda, a 10-year strategy (2026-2035) designed to accelerate a private sector-led economic transformation and expand opportunities for the country’s rapidly growing population. The CPF, developed in collaboration with the Government of Uganda and in consultation with other stakeholders, aligns with the country’s Vision 2040 and the Fourth National Development Plan. It reflects a shared commitment to turning Uganda’s strong growth potential, young population, and natural endowments into sustained improvements in productivity, incomes, and livelihoods. The creation of more and better jobs is at the core of the new strategy because jobs present the most effective pathway out of poverty and the strongest foundation for shared prosperity. With 600,000–700,000 young people entering the labor market each year, Uganda’s development challenge and opportu"},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"Africa, AFR","funding_source":"IDA"},"NTY5MjBjMGI0OGQ5OWNiYzgyNjNlYTZiNTUwZjA0NjZhOTExN2U3MA2":{"id":"NTY5MjBjMGI0OGQ5OWNiYzgyNjNlYTZiNTUwZjA0NjZhOTExN2U3MA2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/06/04/philippines-can-end-poverty-and-build-a-middle-class-society-by-2040-but-only-with-urgent-reforms","count":"Philippines","descr":{"cdata!":"MANILA, June 4, 2026 — The Philippines can end poverty and become a predominantly middle-class society by 2040, but only if it acts now through comprehensive reforms that address the barriers to job creation and strengthen household resilience, according to a new World Bank report released today."},"keywd":"country:Philippines,regions:East Asia and Pacific,subject:poverty measurement and analysis","lang":"English","admreg":"East Asia and Pacific","title":{"cdata!":"Philippines Can End Poverty and Build a Middle-Class Society by 2040 — But Only with Urgent Reforms"},"topic":"Poverty Measurement And Analysis","cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/06/04/philippines-can-end-poverty-and-build-a-middle-class-society-by-2040-but-only-with-urgent-reforms","lnchdt":"2026-06-04T12:00:00Z","regionname":"East Asia and Pacific","wcmsource":"cq5","country":"Philippines","countcode":"PH","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" MANILA, June 4, 2026 — The Philippines can end poverty and become a predominantly middle-class society by 2040, but only if it acts now through comprehensive reforms that address the barriers to job creation and strengthen household resilience, according to a new World Bank report released today. The report, Building the Filipino Middle Class: Towards Resilient Futures and Poverty Eradication, finds that the Philippines has made historic progress: the poverty rate fell to 15.5 percent in 2023 from 23.5 percent in 2015, and income inequality dropped to its lowest level in four decades, with the Gini coefficient declining below 40 for he first time. This progress is, however, far from secure. Nearly 28 percent of Filipinos are vulnerable or remain at risk of falling back into poverty, while the secure middle class, at about a quarter of the population, has barely grown since 2018. The typical Filipino family earns just enough to stay above the poverty line — but not enough to feel economically secure. In fact, many families are so close to the edge that a single typhoon, a hospital bill, or a lost job can push them back into poverty. With 61 percent of the population at high risk from climate-related disasters, and most families having no savings or insurance to fall back on, the threat of losing what has been gained is real. The report includes economic modeling for two futures: a business-as-usual scenario that would reduce poverty to 6 percent by 2040 and grow the secure middle class to 43 percent and; a comprehensive reform scenario — pairing growth and job creation policies with a focused equity and resilience agenda – which could lower poverty to 2.9 percent and boost the middle class to 55 percent, achieving the country's Ambisyon Natin 2040 vision. \"With the right policy mix — one that boosts job creation and productivity while strengthening equity and resilience — the Philippines can all but eliminate poverty by 2040 and firmly put most of its people in the secure middle class. The goal is ambitious, but it is achievable with strong commitment to reforms. The World Bank stands ready to support the government of the Philippines in this journey,\" said Zafer Mustafaoğlu, World Bank Division Director for the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei. The report identifies three interconnected areas where reforms are most urgent. Creating Better Jobs. Only one in three Filipino workers contributes to social security, leaving the vast majority unprotected in old age or job loss. The report calls for reforms to encourage broader opportunities for formal employment for lower-skilled workers. Equally urgent is universalizing early childhood care — to build human capital and enable more women to enter and stay in the workforce. Strengthening Resilience. The report calls for updating the 4Ps program — the Philippines' most cost-effective poverty-reduction program, having reduced poverty by 2.2 percentage points in 2023 — to index benefits to inflation and extend coverage to vulnerable households. It also recommends better agricultural insurance and rebalanced agricultural spending to sustainably lower food prices – both of which would particularly benefit the poorest families. Improving public services. Quality public services, including in health and education, are essential to lasting poverty reduction — but they are not yet reaching those who need them most. Local governments spend only about two-thirds of their infrastructure budgets, and the poorest municipalities receive less funding per person than wealthier ones. The report recommends strengthening local capacity and breaking down data silos to get more out of every peso spent. \"Progress in the Philippines is real, but many families sit just above the poverty line, and a single shock can push them back,\" said Liliana D. Sousa, Senior Economist at the World Bank. \"That is why reform must work on two tracks simultaneously: faster income growth through better jobs for those at the bottom, and a resilience framework strong enough to protect the gains already made, combining robust social protection, expanded insurance coverage, and more effective local public spending.\""},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" MANILA, June 4, 2026 — The Philippines can end poverty and become a predominantly middle-class society by 2040, but only if it acts now through comprehensive reforms that address the barriers to job creation and strengthen household resilience, according to a new World Bank report released today. The report, Building the Filipino Middle Class: Towards Resilient Futures and Poverty Eradication, finds that the Philippines has made historic progress: the poverty rate fell to 15.5 percent in 2023 from 23.5 percent in 2015, and income inequality dropped to its lowest level in four decades, with the Gini coefficient declining below 40 for he first time. This progress is, however, far from secure. Nearly 28 percent of Filipinos are vulnerable or remain at risk of falling back into poverty, while the secure middle class, at about a quarter of the population, has barely grown since 2018. The typical Filipino family earns just enough to stay above the poverty line — but not enough to feel econo"},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"East Asia and Pacific, EAP"},"NTRjMDcyNGE1YWQ3Zjk5MzJiNjEzNzQxZTEwMGQzYjQ5NTY3YjU3Zg2":{"id":"NTRjMDcyNGE1YWQ3Zjk5MzJiNjEzNzQxZTEwMGQzYjQ5NTY3YjU3Zg2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/06/04/yemen-world-bank-group-launches-new-country-partnership-framework-and-projects-to-support-better-livelihoods-and-more-jo","count":"Yemen","descr":{"cdata!":"The World Bank Group's Board of Executive Directors today approved a new Country Partnership Framework (CPF) for the Republic of Yemen for fiscal years 2026-2030, alongside four new operations totaling US$285 million, marking a new phase in the World Bank Group's long-standing commitment to the people of Yemen."},"keywd":"country:Yemen,regions:Middle East and North Africa,consultations:consultation-type/country-partnership-framework-(strategy)--systematic-country-diagnostic-(cpf---scd),organization:World Bank Group,organization:World Bank,sites:world-bank,sites:world-bank-group,subject:fragility-conflict-and-violence,subject:poverty,subject:private-sector,subject:agricultural water management,subject:agriculture and food security,subject:jobs and development,subject:gender,subject:nutrition,subject:power and electricity sector,subject:agribusiness,subject:energy-access,subject:investment climate,subject:health,subject:water,subject:urban development,subject:governance in public sector,subject:water supply and sanitation,subject:infrastructure,subject:climate change adaptation,subject:digital-transformation,subject:road-safety,subject:macroeconomic and structural policies,organization:International Development Association (IDA)","lang":"English","admreg":"Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, & Pakistan","title":{"cdata!":"Yemen: World Bank Group Launches New Country Partnership Framework and Projects to Support Better Livelihoods and More Jobs Amid Fragility"},"topic":"Fragility-conflict-and-violence,Poverty,Private-sector,Agricultural Water Management,Agriculture And Food Security,Jobs And Development,Gender,Nutrition,Power And Electricity Sector,Agribusiness,Energy-access,Investment Climate,Health,Water,Urban Development,Governance In Public Sector,Water Supply And Sanitation,Infrastructure,Climate Change Adaptation,Digital-transformation,Road-safety,Macroeconomic And Structural Policies","proid":"P514696,P514502,P505562,P175791,P512475","unit":"World Bank Group,World Bank,International Development Association (IDA)","cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/06/04/yemen-world-bank-group-launches-new-country-partnership-framework-and-projects-to-support-better-livelihoods-and-more-jo","lnchdt":"2026-06-04T09:00:00Z","regionname":"Middle East and North Africa","wcmsource":"cq5","country":"Yemen","countcode":"YE","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" Amman/Washington, June 4, 2026 – The World Bank Group's Board of Executive Directors today approved a new Country Partnership Framework (CPF) for the Republic of Yemen for fiscal years 2026-2030, alongside four new operations totaling US$285 million, marking a new phase in the World Bank Group's long-standing commitment to the people of Yemen. The new Partnership Framework, titled \"Better Livelihoods and More Jobs Amid Fragility\", outlines the World Bank Group's strategy to support Yemen over the next five years. It comes at a defining moment: a decade of conflict has shrunk real GDP per capita by 58 percent, pushed more than three-quarters of the population into poverty, and left half of Yemen’s children stunted. Yemen's private sector has been an important source of resilience, and key sectors such as agriculture and fisheries offer growth and jobs potential, which the new CPF is designed to build upon and strengthen. \"Yemen's future has to be built now,\" said Stéphane Guimbert, World Bank Division Director for Egypt, Yemen and Djibouti. \"This means creating real opportunities for Yemenis, especially women, and strengthening the institutions that will carry the country forward. We are investing in the capacity of Yemeni women and men themselves to shape their own future.\" The new framework focuses on three core outcomes: improving nutrition; expanding access to electricity; and strengthening agribusiness, mariculture, and fisheries. These outcomes build on a strategic shift in the World Bank Group's approach towards greater selectivity, partnership, and localization – the latter with deepening investment in Yemeni institutions, companies, and domestic delivery systems as the cornerstone of sustainable recovery for all Yemenis. A key cross-cutting enabler is to increase the participation of women in society and the economy. The CPF follows a coordinated approach in this regard: stabilizing household consumption and nutrition, improving women’s access to services, including energy and finances, and linking women to sustainable livelihoods and market opportunities. The private sector is equally central to the CPF's ambitions: the World Bank Group is working to create the conditions for Yemeni businesses to grow and to attract investment, including by the Yemeni diaspora. \"In the past several years, Yemen's private sector has been a critical pillar of economic resilience,\" said Khawaja Aftab Ahmed, Division Director for the Levant, Iraq, and Yemen, IFC. \"IFC's engagement in Yemen reflects our confidence in the ability of the private sector to continue driving growth and creating jobs. From agribusiness to energy, we see significant opportunities for Yemeni businesses to serve as engines of recovery for their communities and catalysts for a better future.\" The four operations approved today span health, water, urban services, and governance, putting the CPF's ambitions into action immediately. The Yemen Health, Nutrition, and WASH Project (US$94 million) will deliver an integrated package of health, nutrition, and water and sanitation services to vulnerable populations, with a focus on pregnant and lactating women and children under five. The project will strengthen national disease surveillance systems, rehabilitate water and sanitation infrastructure at primary healthcare centers, and build the institutional capacity of the Ministry of Public Health and Population and other national institutions. Over six million people will receive outpatient services through the new operation. The Yemen Improved Water Management and Irrigation for Sustainability and Efficiency Project (US$153.6 million) is the first phase of a multi-phase programmatic approach addressing Yemen's acute water scarcity crisis. The project will rehabilitate irrigation systems and water harvesting structures, restore water supply infrastructure across the Aden-Tuban and Wadi Hajir basins, and support digital systems for climate and water resources management. It will contribute to the CPF-wide target of expanding access to water, sanitation, and hygiene services from 3.4 million to 6.4 million people by 2030, while opening the door to private sector participation in water solutions in later phases. The Yemen Integrated Urban Services Emergency Project II- Third Additional Financing (US$21 million) will restore and expand critical urban services, including roads, water and sanitation systems, flood risk management, and electricity for schools and hospitals, across selected cities, benefiting up to 1.75 million people through improved access to essential services. The Modernizing Public Institutions and Systems in Yemen Project ($20 million) addresses one of the most fundamental constraints to Yemen's longer-term recovery: the fragmentation and weakening of core governance systems. The project will strengthen public financial management, improve statistical capacity, and lay the institutional groundwork for transitioning toward direct World Bank financing of Yemeni institutions. It contributes to a CPF-wide enabling objective of strengthening macro-economic stability, governance and institutions. The World Bank Group has maintained an active presence in Yemen throughout the conflict, with a current portfolio of approximately $2 billion across nine active projects, financed through a mix of concessional IDA resources, trust funds, and donor support. The CPF was developed through extensive consultations with government counterparts, the private sector, civil society, development partners, and UN agencies, and is supported by the Yemen Resilience, Recovery and Reconstruction Trust Fund, co-financed by the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Switzerland, as well as the EU-IFC Enhancing Private Sector Growth in Yemen Trust Fund."},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" Amman/Washington, June 4, 2026 – The World Bank Group's Board of Executive Directors today approved a new Country Partnership Framework (CPF) for the Republic of Yemen for fiscal years 2026-2030, alongside four new operations totaling US$285 million, marking a new phase in the World Bank Group's long-standing commitment to the people of Yemen. The new Partnership Framework, titled \"Better Livelihoods and More Jobs Amid Fragility\", outlines the World Bank Group's strategy to support Yemen over the next five years. It comes at a defining moment: a decade of conflict has shrunk real GDP per capita by 58 percent, pushed more than three-quarters of the population into poverty, and left half of Yemen’s children stunted. Yemen's private sector has been an important source of resilience, and key sectors such as agriculture and fisheries offer growth and jobs potential, which the new CPF is designed to build upon and strengthen. \"Yemen's future has to be built now,\" said Stéphane Guimbert, Wor"},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"Middle East & North Africa Afghanistan & Pakistan, MNA"},"NTM3ZWUxYmI1OTI0MzhkMDM1Zjg3NjlkYzA0ODBiNDJhYTEyZjg5Yw2":{"id":"NTM3ZWUxYmI1OTI0MzhkMDM1Zjg3NjlkYzA0ODBiNDJhYTEyZjg5Yw2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/06/02/world-bank-group-reaffirms-partnership-with-tajikistan-to-unlock-private-sector-led-growth-that-generates-jobs","count":"Tajikistan","descr":{"cdata!":"The World Bank Group’s Board of Directors today discussed a new Country Partnership Framework (CPF) for the Republic of Tajikistan for fiscal years 2026–2032."},"keywd":"country:Tajikistan,regions:Europe and Central Asia","lang":"English","admreg":"Europe and Central Asia","title":{"cdata!":"World Bank Group Reaffirms Partnership with Tajikistan to Unlock Private Sector-Led Growth that Generates Jobs"},"cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/06/02/world-bank-group-reaffirms-partnership-with-tajikistan-to-unlock-private-sector-led-growth-that-generates-jobs","lnchdt":"2026-06-03T14:37:00Z","regionname":"Europe and Central Asia","wcmsource":"cq5","country":"Tajikistan","countcode":"TJ","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" WASHINGTON, June 3, 2026 – The World Bank Group’s Board of Directors discussed a new Country Partnership Framework (CPF) for the Republic of Tajikistan for fiscal years 2026–2032. The new framework supports Tajikistan’s efforts to accelerate economic transformation, strengthen resilience, and improve living standards through private sector-led growth leading to job creation. The CPF brings together the full range of World Bank Group institutions, including the International Development Association (IDA), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), in support of Tajikistan’s development priorities under the National Development Strategy 2030. Tajikistan has achieved strong poverty reduction over the past decade, with the national poverty rate declining from 56 percent in 2010 to below 20 percent in recent years. However, the economy remains highly dependent on remittances and is vulnerable to external shocks and natural disasters. The CPF prioritizes three interrelated outcomes: (1) increased access to secure, affordable, and clean energy; (2) a better-skilled and healthy workforce; and (3) private investments for more and better jobs. Underpinning the entire strategy is a cross-cutting goal of building resilience to economic, climate, and other shocks. “Tajikistan has made important progress over the past two decades. To preserve and build on these achievements, our renewed partnership aims to help the country’s transition to a more sustainable economic model driven by clean energy, stronger human capital, and increased private investment for more and better jobs for people,” said Gael Raballand, the World Bank Group Country Manager for Tajikistan. More specifically, the CPF will support energy sector development, including the Rogun Hydropower Plant, investments in education, skills, health, water and sanitation services, reforms to improve the business environment and attract private investment, as well as measures to strengthen climate adaptation, disaster preparedness, and social protection systems. The CPF is informed by the Streamlined Country Diagnostic, Country Opinion Surveys and draws on extensive consultations with the Government of Tajikistan, development partners, the private sector, civil society, and academia. It is aligned with the country’s development priorities and the World Bank Group’s mission to end poverty and promote shared prosperity on a livable planet. The World Bank Group is one of the world’s largest sources of financing and knowledge for developing countries. IDA is currently financing 25 projects in Tajikistan, totaling $1.93 billion. IFC maintains an investment portfolio of $69 million, supporting seven private sector clients."},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" WASHINGTON, June 3, 2026 – The World Bank Group’s Board of Directors discussed a new Country Partnership Framework (CPF) for the Republic of Tajikistan for fiscal years 2026–2032. The new framework supports Tajikistan’s efforts to accelerate economic transformation, strengthen resilience, and improve living standards through private sector-led growth leading to job creation. The CPF brings together the full range of World Bank Group institutions, including the International Development Association (IDA), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), in support of Tajikistan’s development priorities under the National Development Strategy 2030. Tajikistan has achieved strong poverty reduction over the past decade, with the national poverty rate declining from 56 percent in 2010 to below 20 percent in recent years. However, the economy remains highly dependent on remittances and is vulnerable to external shocks and natural disaster"},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"Europe and Central Asia, ECA"},"Nzc4NzBlM2YzNDU2MmQzOTU2MjA2ZjYxZjY0Y2E3NDJjZDJhOTM4Nw2":{"id":"Nzc4NzBlM2YzNDU2MmQzOTU2MjA2ZjYxZjY0Y2E3NDJjZDJhOTM4Nw2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/06/03/ghana-launches-agriconnect-compact-to-strengthen-food-security-create-jobs-and-mobilize-investment","count":"Ghana","descr":{"cdata!":"The Government of Ghana, with support from the World Bank Group and development partners, today launched its AgriConnect Compact, a national framework to strengthen food security, create jobs, reduce food imports, and mobilize investment across priority agricultural value chains."},"keywd":"country:Ghana,regions:Africa,subject:agribusiness,subject:agriculture and food security,subject:jobs and development","lang":"English","admreg":"Africa","title":{"cdata!":"Ghana Launches AgriConnect Compact to Strengthen Food Security, Create Jobs, and Mobilize Investment"},"topic":"Agribusiness,Agriculture And Food Security,Jobs And Development","cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/06/03/ghana-launches-agriconnect-compact-to-strengthen-food-security-create-jobs-and-mobilize-investment","lnchdt":"2026-06-03T09:56:00Z","regionname":"Africa","wcmsource":"cq5","country":"Ghana","countcode":"GH","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" ACCRA, June 3rd, 2026 - The Government of Ghana, with support from the World Bank Group and development partners, today launched its AgriConnect Compact, a national framework to strengthen food security, create jobs, reduce food imports, and mobilize investment across priority agricultural value chains. The Compact sets out a coordinated agenda for public and private action to raise productivity, expand value addition, improve access to markets and finance, and strengthen resilience across Ghana’s agri-food system. It prioritizes cocoa, oil palm, rice, maize, and poultry, while supporting other strategic sectors, including cashew, coconut, rubber, fisheries, and the forest economy. In its first phase, from 2026 to 2030, the Compact aims to improve food and nutrition security for an estimated 2.99 million people and support the creation of more than 2.6 million jobs by 2035. Financing needs for the first phase are estimated at about $3.5 billion, with contributions expected from the Government of Ghana, development partners, and the private sector. “Ghana’s AgriConnect Compact is a bold step toward building a more productive, resilient, and jobs-rich food system. By linking policy reform with investment and delivery, Ghana is creating the conditions to strengthen food security, support farmers and agribusinesses, and unlock private capital at scale,” said Guangzhe Chen, World Bank Group Vice President for Planet. “AgriConnect is about turning Ghana’s agricultural potential into tangible results: more food on the table, more jobs for young people, and more value created here at home. This Compact provides a clear roadmap to modernize agriculture, support farmers, and build stronger value chains that can drive growth nationwide,” said Eric Opoku, Minister of Food and Agriculture. “The Government of Ghana remains fully committed to working with all stakeholders to translate the aspirations of this AgriConnect Compact into tangible results for our people. This is Ghana’s moment to feed itself, employ its youth, build competitive industries and create wealth from its own soil “said Thomas Nyarko Ampem, Deputy Minister of Finance. The initiative is designed to strengthen domestic production, build resilience, and support a more competitive rural economy. It focuses on irrigation, seed systems, mechanization, farmer services, agro-processing, and logistics so that more food is grown, processed, and marketed in Ghana. The Compact is being advanced by the Government of Ghana, with support from the World Bank Group and other partners, as part of a broader effort to accelerate agricultural transformation, crowd in private capital, and strengthen implementation. It emphasizes results, coordination, and stronger collaboration across government, development institutions, agribusinesses, and farmer organizations. The Compact brings together policy reforms, targeted investments, and delivery mechanisms under one national framework to position agriculture as a driver of inclusive growth, industrialization, resilience, and long-term prosperity.About AgriConnect AgriConnect is a World Bank Group initiative to transform farming for 300 million smallholders by 2030. It is supported by partners such as the African Development Bank (AfDB), the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Google and Bayer. The Ghana AgriConnect Compact is a multi-year national framework focused on strengthening food security, creating jobs, boosting value addition, and mobilizing financing across priority agricultural value chains. The first phase covers 2026–2030 and is aligned with Ghana’s broader goals for agricultural transformation, private investment, and economic resilience."},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" ACCRA, June 3rd, 2026 - The Government of Ghana, with support from the World Bank Group and development partners, today launched its AgriConnect Compact, a national framework to strengthen food security, create jobs, reduce food imports, and mobilize investment across priority agricultural value chains. The Compact sets out a coordinated agenda for public and private action to raise productivity, expand value addition, improve access to markets and finance, and strengthen resilience across Ghana’s agri-food system. It prioritizes cocoa, oil palm, rice, maize, and poultry, while supporting other strategic sectors, including cashew, coconut, rubber, fisheries, and the forest economy. In its first phase, from 2026 to 2030, the Compact aims to improve food and nutrition security for an estimated 2.99 million people and support the creation of more than 2.6 million jobs by 2035. Financing needs for the first phase are estimated at about $3.5 billion, with contributions expected from t"},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"Africa, AFR"},"NWUxNjE2NTI1NWZjZTNmMWY2MTI2MjNiNGZjYjAzMTg2ZTc5YmViMw2":{"id":"NWUxNjE2NTI1NWZjZTNmMWY2MTI2MjNiNGZjYjAzMTg2ZTc5YmViMw2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/06/02/cumbre-jovenes-chile-2026-dialogo-trabajos-del-futuro","count":"Chile","descr":{"cdata!":"More than 160 young people took part in the Chile Youth Summit 2026 to discuss employment, artificial intelligence, and sustainability, advancing ideas for the country’s future of work."},"keywd":"country:Chile,regions:Latin America and Caribbean","lang":"English","admreg":"Latin America and Caribbean","title":{"cdata!":"More Than 160 Young People Participate in Chile 2026 Youth Summit on the Jobs of the Future"},"cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/06/02/cumbre-jovenes-chile-2026-dialogo-trabajos-del-futuro","lnchdt":"2026-06-02T15:11:00Z","regionname":"Latin America and Caribbean","wcmsource":"cq5","country":"Chile","countcode":"CL","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" Organized by the World Bank Group, the Federation of Chilean Industry (SOFOFA), the UC Chile University, and América Solidaria, the event brought together young people alongside representatives from the public sector, private sector, academia, and civil society to reflect on the labor challenges and opportunities that will shape Chile’s future. On May 26, more than 160 young people from across Chile took part in the Chile 2026 Youth Summit: Jobs of the Future, a forum for dialogue, exchange, and collective reflection designed to elevate youth perspectives amid the profound transformations reshaping the world of work. The summit convened representatives from the public sector, private sector, academia, and civil society, and served as a consultative platform where young people could share their experiences, concerns, and proposals regarding the opportunities and challenges the country is expected to face in the coming years. Discussions throughout the event focused on issues that will be critical to the future of Chile and the region, including digital transformation and artificial intelligence, the transition to green jobs linked to water and sustainability, and the labor challenges and opportunities associated with mining and other strategic sectors. Through panel discussions, participatory workshops, and intergenerational dialogue, participants reflected on how to build a future of work that is more inclusive, sustainable, and responsive to territorial realities. Jean-Marc Arbogast, World Bank Group Country Manager for Chile, underscored the importance of placing youth employment at the center of the development agenda: “Employment is the foundation of development, as it is the most powerful tool for reducing poverty. That is why promoting quality jobs for young people is a central priority of our work, and we are convinced that progress on this challenge requires working alongside them and with other institutions to co-create solutions that respond to the transformations the labor market is facing today.” Carolina Sánchez, Executive Director of América Solidaria, emphasized the need to ensure that young people are actively included in these conversations: “Young people cannot be left out of discussions about the future of work. Today, we need to listen to their experiences, understand their concerns, and build opportunities together with them. We firmly believe that adolescence and youth are not simply a stage of life, but an opportunity to transform the present and the future of the country.” Rosario Navarro, President of SOFOFA, highlighted the urgency of addressing youth unemployment and strengthening the skills needed for the future: “Today, youth unemployment rates stand at 20 percent for men and 24 percent for women. This should clearly concern us, but it should also prompt action from the business community. Artificial intelligence is among the skills we need to learn, but we must also strengthen the human capabilities that make us unique, such as creativity, critical thinking, and curiosity.” Mario Ponce, Academic Vice Rector of the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, noted that preparing young people for the future of work requires both education and active engagement with the productive sectors: “The future of work is not only about what we teach young people, but also about how we listen to the productive sectors of the country and the regions in order to prepare new generations for the challenges and opportunities ahead.” Referring to the rapid technological changes transforming society, he added: “I am convinced that throughout human history we have continued to grow in knowledge and human development. And we will continue to do so as long as you are here, participating and willing to think about this.” This second regional edition—following the first held in São Paulo, Brazil, in 2025—formed part of the global agenda of the World Bank Group’s Youth Summit 2026, under the theme FutureWorks: Designing Jobs for the Digital Age.   "},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" Organized by the World Bank Group, the Federation of Chilean Industry (SOFOFA), the UC Chile University, and América Solidaria, the event brought together young people alongside representatives from the public sector, private sector, academia, and civil society to reflect on the labor challenges and opportunities that will shape Chile’s future. On May 26, more than 160 young people from across Chile took part in the Chile 2026 Youth Summit: Jobs of the Future, a forum for dialogue, exchange, and collective reflection designed to elevate youth perspectives amid the profound transformations reshaping the world of work. The summit convened representatives from the public sector, private sector, academia, and civil society, and served as a consultative platform where young people could share their experiences, concerns, and proposals regarding the opportunities and challenges the country is expected to face in the coming years. Discussions throughout the event focused on issues that will "},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"Latin America & Caribbean, LCR","funding_source":"IBRD"},"MzAwZTJiMjUxZDRmODViNmI1MDA4NTBlN2M2NzE4ZDA5OWQ1NjEwMg2":{"id":"MzAwZTJiMjUxZDRmODViNmI1MDA4NTBlN2M2NzE4ZDA5OWQ1NjEwMg2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/06/02/georgia-boosts-role-in-trans-caspian-transport-corridor-with-world-bank-group-support","count":"Georgia","descr":{"cdata!":"The World Bank Group’s Board of Executive Directors today approved the $372 million Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor - Georgia Accessibility and Transport Enhancement (TC-GATE) Project to improve performance and resilience of the Georgia segment of the regional connectivity and trade route connecting Europe and Asia."},"keywd":"country:Georgia","lang":"English","title":{"cdata!":"Georgia Boosts Role in Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor  with World Bank Group Support"},"cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/06/02/georgia-boosts-role-in-trans-caspian-transport-corridor-with-world-bank-group-support","lnchdt":"2026-06-02T09:43:38Z","wcmsource":"cq5","country":"Georgia","countcode":"GE","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":"Investments in Georgia’s rail and road infrastructure will enhance connectivity between Europe and Asia, opening economic opportunities for people and businesses TBILISI, June 2, 2026—The World Bank Group’s Board of Executive Directors today approved the $372 million Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor - Georgia Accessibility and Transport Enhancement (TC-GATE) Project to improve performance and resilience of the Georgia segment of the regional connectivity and trade route connecting Europe and Asia. The Project will finance upgrades to rail freight capacity, modernization of key road segments in the country, and targeted reforms of rail and road institutions, alleviating infrastructure bottlenecks along the corridor. By enhancing transport connectivity, simplifying market access, and reducing logistics expenses for businesses, farmers, and communities, the TC-GATE Project is expected to directly benefit over 900,000 people and help generate jobs across logistics, transport, agribusiness, and related services, both directly and through wider multiplier effects along the corridor. “These investments will help Georgia realize its full potential as a critical regional transit hub bridging Europe and Asia, while responding to growing demand along the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, reflecting evolving global trade flows and need for diversified supply chains,” said Rolande Pryce, World Bank Regional Director for the South Caucasus. “By supporting modernization of the key rail and road links and reforms aimed to strengthen institutions that manage them, the World Bank Group, jointly with development partners, is helping Georgia and other countries along the corridor create tangible benefits for citizens through better connectivity, safer and more resilient transport, more jobs, and stronger economic opportunities.” The total cost of the large-scale TC-GATE Project is over US$750 million, of which this new World Bank Group operation finances US$372 million and the remainder being co-financed by the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). This demonstrates strong multilateral support for Georgia's connectivity ambition, as well as for the development of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor broadly. “Through the new project, Georgia is strengthening its role as a reliable and competitive gateway between Europe and Asia, and together with our international partners we are committed to building a modern transport network that will serve the region for decades to come,” said Lasha Khutsishvili, Minister of Finance of Georgia. “These investments are not only important for our country’s economic development and for creation of the new opportunities for our citizens, but also for supporting growing international trade flows and more diversified, secure supply chains, as the upgrades to Georgia’s railway and road links will improve Middle Corridor efficiency and strengthen regional connectivity resilience.” In particular, the TC-GATE Project will help modernize Georgia’s rail freight services by financing new, energy-efficient electric locomotives to replace an aging fleet, and strengthening JSC Georgian Railway’s operational efficiency, financial sustainability, and governance. The upgrades are expected to improve locomotive availability to 95%, improve service reliability for shippers, and support a 20% increase in revenues, while also resulting in a reduction in net emissions of more than 2.3 million tons. To improve road connectivity, the Project will finance the construction of two four-lane road segments in Georgia’s strategic corridor and agricultural production region - Kakheti, specifically the Badiauri–Chalaubani–Bakurtsikhe sections, as well as a road connecting Gurjaani to Telavi. This will reduce travel times between Telavi (Eastern Georgian) and Poti Sea Port (Western Georgia) by about 43 minutes and elevate road safety standards. Designed to meet climate-resilient standards, the road works will incorporate measures to reduce disruptions from floods and landslides, thus improving the reliability of year-round access to markets for people and goods. For Georgia’s Road sector institutional strengthening, the Project will assist in digitization of road asset management, deployment of Intelligent Transport Systems via the establishment of a National Highway Control Center (NHCC), implementation of climate resilient systems and support of long-term fiscal sustainability. The TC-GATE Project will also support economic empowerment for women entrepreneurs in the Kakheti region and fund analytics to explore greater private sector participation opportunities in road management."},"content_1000":{"cdata!":"Investments in Georgia’s rail and road infrastructure will enhance connectivity between Europe and Asia, opening economic opportunities for people and businesses TBILISI, June 2, 2026—The World Bank Group’s Board of Executive Directors today approved the $372 million Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor - Georgia Accessibility and Transport Enhancement (TC-GATE) Project to improve performance and resilience of the Georgia segment of the regional connectivity and trade route connecting Europe and Asia. The Project will finance upgrades to rail freight capacity, modernization of key road segments in the country, and targeted reforms of rail and road institutions, alleviating infrastructure bottlenecks along the corridor. By enhancing transport connectivity, simplifying market access, and reducing logistics expenses for businesses, farmers, and communities, the TC-GATE Project is expected to directly benefit over 900,000 people and help generate jobs across logistics, transport, agribusiness,"},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"Europe and Central Asia, ECA"},"MTNhZjYwNGQ5YTE5ZDFmOTgzYjU4MDgwMGU4YTMzZmE1MzljMDM5ZA2":{"id":"MTNhZjYwNGQ5YTE5ZDFmOTgzYjU4MDgwMGU4YTMzZmE1MzljMDM5ZA2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/06/01/the-world-bank-group-and-japan-expand-cooperation-to-strengthen-critical-minerals-supply-chains-and-energy-resilience","count":"Japan","descr":{"cdata!":"World Bank Group President Ajay Banga and Minister of Finance of Japan Satsuki Katayama today agreed to strengthen collaboration on helping developing countries build more resilient supply chains and energy systems, unlocking investment, jobs, and long-term economic growth."},"keywd":"country:Japan","lang":"English","title":{"cdata!":"The World Bank Group and Japan Expand Cooperation to Strengthen Critical Minerals Supply Chains and Energy Resilience"},"cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/06/01/the-world-bank-group-and-japan-expand-cooperation-to-strengthen-critical-minerals-supply-chains-and-energy-resilience","lnchdt":"2026-06-01T14:00:49Z","wcmsource":"cq5","country":"Japan","countcode":"JP","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" TOKYO, June 1, 2026 — World Bank Group President Ajay Banga and Minister of Finance of Japan Satsuki Katayama today agreed to strengthen collaboration on helping developing countries build more resilient supply chains and energy systems, unlocking investment, jobs, and long-term economic growth. They signed the document to launch the Resilient and Inclusive Supply-chain Enhancement Plus (RISE+) , and agreed on a new framework called Dynamic Response for Invigorating Value Chains and Energy Security (DRIVE). Together, these initiatives extend Japan’s existing partnerships with the World Bank Group on critical minerals and regional energy security. Expanding Critical Minerals Support Japan will launch RISE+, a new $20 million facility under Japan's single-donor trust funds that will complement the Resilient and Inclusive Supply-Chain Enhancement (RISE) Partnership, which was launched under Japan’s G7 presidency in 2023. RISE+ will help developing nations translate growing demand for key infrastructure development and private capital mobilization for supply chains of critical minerals, including rare earths, into concrete public and private investment, leading to  industrial development and quality jobs, particularly in line with Country Compacts. By coordinating public and private sector action, the initiative aims to help countries turn their natural resource wealth into lasting economic opportunity. Building Energy Resilience  DRIVE complements POWERR Asia (Partnership on Wide Energy and Resources Resilience Asia), Japan’s $10 billion framework to address fuel supply shortages and supply chain disruptions in Asia stemming from the conflict in the Middle East. Through DRIVE, the World Bank Group, in collaboration with Japanese government agencies including the Japan Bank for International Cooperation and the Japan International Cooperation Agency, will help the most affected countries stabilize their economies and build more resilient energy systems for the future through sovereign lending and private sector solutions.  The partnership will draw on the World Bank Group’s global expertise and Japan's leadership in energy security to provide analysis and technical assistance, to strengthen supply chain management, improve crisis preparedness, and help vulnerable countries pool their purchasing power to secure timely access to critical supplies. “We appreciate Japan’s leadership in enhancing critical minerals supply chain resilience through RISE+ and strengthening energy security through POWERR Asia” said Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank Group. “These initiatives will help countries turn growing demand for clean energy and critical minerals into investment, jobs, and economic opportunity that improve lives across developing economies.” Katayama Satsuki, Japan’s Minister of Finance said, “Critical mineral supply chain diversification through RISE+, and promotion of resilient regional supply chains and energy transition in the Asia-Pacific through DRIVE are both win-win policies that contribute not only to the creation of high-quality jobs and sustainable economic growth in developing countries, but also to helping ensure stable supply for importing countries, including Japan. I welcome the opportunity to leverage the World Bank Group’s expertise and policy tools in advancing these initiatives.” About the Initiatives Together, RISE+ and DRIVE will help developing countries translate growing demand for critical minerals and clean energy into concrete public and private investment, leading to industrial growth and job creation. By strengthening regional supply chains and energy resilience, both initiatives are designed to contribute to stable economic growth in developing countries, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, as well as in Japan and the global economy. More information: World Bank and Japan Sign Administration Arrangement on RISE to Boost Investments in Supply Chains of Clean Energy  Website: https://www.worldbank.org/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/worldbankgroup/X: https://x.com/worldbankgroupYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WorldBankGroup"},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" TOKYO, June 1, 2026 — World Bank Group President Ajay Banga and Minister of Finance of Japan Satsuki Katayama today agreed to strengthen collaboration on helping developing countries build more resilient supply chains and energy systems, unlocking investment, jobs, and long-term economic growth. They signed the document to launch the Resilient and Inclusive Supply-chain Enhancement Plus (RISE+) , and agreed on a new framework called Dynamic Response for Invigorating Value Chains and Energy Security (DRIVE). Together, these initiatives extend Japan’s existing partnerships with the World Bank Group on critical minerals and regional energy security. Expanding Critical Minerals Support Japan will launch RISE+, a new $20 million facility under Japan's single-donor trust funds that will complement the Resilient and Inclusive Supply-Chain Enhancement (RISE) Partnership, which was launched under Japan’s G7 presidency in 2023. RISE+ will help developing nations translate growing demand fo"},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"External and Corporate Relations, ECR"},"NGQ3M2NhNWI1MThhOWFlYTg1YTRjYTliZjFiNGIyZWM1Yzk4YTMwNw2":{"id":"NGQ3M2NhNWI1MThhOWFlYTg1YTRjYTliZjFiNGIyZWM1Yzk4YTMwNw2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/05/28/new-world-bank-project-will-help-transform-ukraines-social-protection-system","count":"Ukraine","descr":{"cdata!":"The World Bank Board of Executive Directors approved today a social protection project for Ukraine that will provide assistance to more than one million people."},"keywd":"country:Ukraine,regions:Europe and Central Asia,subject:social protection and growth","lang":"English","admreg":"Europe and Central Asia","title":{"cdata!":"New World Bank Project will Help Transform Ukraine's Social Protection System"},"topic":"Social Protection And Growth","proid":"P513322","cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/05/28/new-world-bank-project-will-help-transform-ukraines-social-protection-system","lnchdt":"2026-05-28T17:18:00Z","regionname":"Europe and Central Asia","wcmsource":"cq5","country":"Ukraine","countcode":"UA","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" WASHINGTON, May 29, 2026—The World Bank Board of Executive Directors has approved a social protection project for Ukraine that will provide assistance to more than one million people. Specifically, the project will support Ukraine's government in implementing a comprehensive package of reforms to modernize social assistance through a new system that links cash beneficiaries to employment and social service support, helping them to have greater access to jobs. The project will help transform social services financing and delivery and introduce a modern disability support system aligned with European Union standards.  Implemented by Ukraine's Ministry of Social Policy, Family, and Unity, the $880 million Social Protection Project for Inclusion, Resilience, Innovation, and Transformation (SPIRIT) project will finance several social assistance programs for low-income households, vulnerable families with children, persons with disabilities, older persons, and caregivers. The project will also advance structural reforms to help reshape Ukraine's social protection architecture for the long-term, while strengthening the capacity of social service providers at the national and local levels. The SPIRIT project is comprised of a $860 million World Bank loan, supported by a $360 million credit enhancement from the Advancing Needed Credit Enhancement for Ukraine (ADVANCE Ukraine Trust Fund, supported by the Government of Japan), and a $500 million bilateral guarantee from the Government of the United Kingdom. The project also anticipates co-financing from Germany and the UK through a $20 million grant from the Ukraine Relief, Recovery, Reconstruction, and Reform Trust Fund (URTF). The SPIRIT project is an integral part of the international support package for Ukraine and the project’s structural reforms will directly advance Ukraine's EU accession agenda by fulfilling critical alignment requirements in social policy, disability rights, and labor market inclusion. One reform consolidates the fragmented benefit programs into a single Basic Social Assistance program — creating a one-stop-shop for vulnerable families that connects income support to jobs and social services through an integrated case management system. Another reform aims to transform social services financing into a model by which the government will fund social services based on people’s needs, allowing clients to access services from a mix of community, nonprofit, and private providers. A third reform aims to transition disability support from a medical certification model to a person-centered system that assesses what people can do and what they need, and includes rehabilitation, assistive technologies, and employment support. “Ukraine continues to experience a severe humanitarian and economic toll. Vulnerable households, especially those whose livelihoods have been significantly affected, require adequate support to mitigate the crisis' impacts, meet basic needs, and avoid falling further into poverty. This project supports reforms designed to reduce poverty, improve access to benefits, and ensure that support reaches those who need it most, even in times of crisis,” said Bob Saum, World Bank Division Director for Eastern Europe. In the last four years, World Bank-mobilized support, which includes strong protections and oversight measures, including audits to help ensure financing reaches its intended recipients, has enabled the Government of Ukraine to provide essential services reaching more than 20 million Ukrainians — including  operations for health, education, energy, housing, agriculture, and small and medium enterprises."},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" WASHINGTON, May 29, 2026—The World Bank Board of Executive Directors has approved a social protection project for Ukraine that will provide assistance to more than one million people. Specifically, the project will support Ukraine's government in implementing a comprehensive package of reforms to modernize social assistance through a new system that links cash beneficiaries to employment and social service support, helping them to have greater access to jobs. The project will help transform social services financing and delivery and introduce a modern disability support system aligned with European Union standards.  Implemented by Ukraine's Ministry of Social Policy, Family, and Unity, the $880 million Social Protection Project for Inclusion, Resilience, Innovation, and Transformation (SPIRIT) project will finance several social assistance programs for low-income households, vulnerable families with children, persons with disabilities, older persons, and caregivers. The project will a"},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"Europe and Central Asia, ECA"},"NDc5MjE0MzRmZjhmODMwOWVjMzM5ZTQ4MzJkMmI0M2FkMmE0MjIwYg2":{"id":"NDc5MjE0MzRmZjhmODMwOWVjMzM5ZTQ4MzJkMmI0M2FkMmE0MjIwYg2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/05/28/world-bank-approves-500-million-to-improve-rural-roads-and-market-access-in-ghana","count":"Ghana","descr":{"cdata!":"The World Bank today approved $500 million in financing for the Ghana Market Access and Connectivity Project (GMACP), a major initiative to improve rural road connectivity, strengthen agricultural value chains, expand economic opportunities, and create short-term direct jobs for rural communities across Ghana."},"keywd":"country:Ghana,regions:Africa,subject:infrastructure and growth,subject:infrastructure,subject:agriculture and food security,subject:jobs and development,subject:small and medium-sized enterprises and jobs,subject:rural development,subject:transport,subject:trade,subject:trade facilitation and logistics","lang":"English","admreg":"Africa","title":{"cdata!":"World Bank Approves $500 Million to Improve Rural Roads and Market Access in Ghana"},"topic":"Infrastructure And Growth,Infrastructure,Agriculture And Food Security,Jobs And Development,Small And Medium-sized Enterprises And Jobs,Rural Development,Transport,Trade,Trade Facilitation And Logistics","proid":"P513708","cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/05/28/world-bank-approves-500-million-to-improve-rural-roads-and-market-access-in-ghana","lnchdt":"2026-05-28T10:13:00Z","regionname":"Africa","wcmsource":"cq5","country":"Ghana","countcode":"GH","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" Washington, 28th May 2026 - The World Bank today approved $500 million in financing for the Ghana Market Access and Connectivity Project (GMACP), a major initiative to improve rural road connectivity, strengthen agricultural value chains, expand economic opportunities, and create short-term direct jobs for rural communities across Ghana. Poor road conditions and inadequate maintenance have long constrained rural livelihoods in Ghana — limiting market access, driving up transport costs, and contributing to significant post-harvest losses. The project directly addresses these challenges by rehabilitating and maintaining critical feeder roads in selected regions, improving all-season connectivity between rural production areas and urban markets, and enabling farmers to reach buyers more efficiently, transition into higher-value agricultural activities, and unlock local job and income opportunities along agricultural value chains. \"This project will improve access to markets and opportunities for rural communities while strengthening Ghana's agricultural competitiveness and resilience,\" said Robert Taliercio, World Bank Division Director for Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. “It will directly benefit more than 550,000 people — including approximately 350,000 farmers, 250,000 women, and 310,000 youth. It is also expected to generate some 25,000 short-term direct jobs through civil works and road maintenance activities.” To be implemented over five years by the Ministry of Roads and Highways, the GMACP project will support the rehabilitation and maintenance of more than 1,000 kilometers of rural roads across four clusters spanning the Upper West, Northern, Savannah, Oti, Volta, Eastern, Ashanti, Bono, and Western regions. These areas are major producers of priority crops — including maize, rice, yam, and cassava — that are central to Ghana's food security but remain constrained by poor market connectivity. Improved all-season access aims to reduce transport costs, shorten travel times, increase supply reliability, and open larger markets to smallholder farmers, ultimately reducing post-harvest losses, strengthening agricultural value chains, and contributing to lower food prices and improved food security. The GMACP incorporates climate-resilient design to ensure roads and drainage systems can withstand climate risks over the long term. Sustainability is a central pillar of the project: it will operationalize the Road Maintenance Trust Fund (RMTF) and introduce Performance-Based Contracts for road maintenance, while providing technical assistance to strengthen institutional capacity and ensure that rehabilitated roads remain functional well beyond project completion."},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" Washington, 28th May 2026 - The World Bank today approved $500 million in financing for the Ghana Market Access and Connectivity Project (GMACP), a major initiative to improve rural road connectivity, strengthen agricultural value chains, expand economic opportunities, and create short-term direct jobs for rural communities across Ghana. Poor road conditions and inadequate maintenance have long constrained rural livelihoods in Ghana — limiting market access, driving up transport costs, and contributing to significant post-harvest losses. The project directly addresses these challenges by rehabilitating and maintaining critical feeder roads in selected regions, improving all-season connectivity between rural production areas and urban markets, and enabling farmers to reach buyers more efficiently, transition into higher-value agricultural activities, and unlock local job and income opportunities along agricultural value chains. \"This project will improve access to markets and oppo"},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"Africa, AFR","funding_source":"IDA"},"NjNiOTQxODQ4NzJhNDgxNzQyMjJhMDM1NzkyYmQ3NmQ5YTBjYmFmMg2":{"id":"NjNiOTQxODQ4NzJhNDgxNzQyMjJhMDM1NzkyYmQ3NmQ5YTBjYmFmMg2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/05/27/barbados-can-translate-strong-education-access-into-skills-for-the-future-world-bank-group-review-finds","count":"Barbados","descr":{"cdata!":"The review finds that Barbados allocates approximately 4.9 percent of GDP to education—broadly aligned with international benchmarks, and the education budget has remained relatively stable and protected during economic shocks. This has helped the country to achieve near-universal enrollment at the primary and secondary levels."},"keywd":"country:Barbados","lang":"English","title":{"cdata!":"Barbados Can Translate Strong Education Access into Skills for the Future, World Bank Group Review Finds"},"cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/05/27/barbados-can-translate-strong-education-access-into-skills-for-the-future-world-bank-group-review-finds","lnchdt":"2026-05-27T15:41:00Z","wcmsource":"cq5","country":"Barbados","countcode":"BB","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" Bridgetown, Barbados, May 27, 2026: Barbados has built a solid track record  of investing in education, and it has a clear opportunity to ensure that investment translates into the skills students need in the world of work, according to a World Bank Education Public Expenditure Review released today during the launch of the Barbados Education Sector Transformation program. The review finds that Barbados allocates approximately 4.9 percent of GDP to education—broadly aligned with international benchmarks, and the education budget has remained relatively stable and protected during economic shocks. This has helped the country to achieve near-universal enrollment at the primary and secondary levels.  Yet, the system has struggled to translate that investment into workforce-relevant skills, with employers citing the quality of education and training as a key reason for skills shortages. Foundational skills deficits emerge as early as primary school. In 2023, around 30 percent of students did not demonstrate acceptable mathematics performance on end-of-primary national exams — and widen through secondary education.  According to the Barbados Ministry of Education Transformation: “This review reinforces the imperative of aligning educational investment with national development priorities and the evolving demands of the global economy. As we advance education transformation in Barbados, our commitment remains focused on building a more equitable, future-oriented, and resilient system that empowers every learner with the competencies required to compete and lead globally.” The review highlights opportunities to further strengthen equity within the education system, noting that academic performance correlates strongly with socioeconomic background as merit-based scholarships disproportionately benefit higher-income households. In 2017, 61 percent of scholarship funding went to students from the wealthiest quintile, while only 8 percent reached the poorest. Also identified were inefficiencies in resource use. Declining student-to-teacher ratios—driven by falling birth rates—have not translated into improved learning outcomes. At the same time, relatively high spending on tertiary education and rising costs from grade repetition in upper secondary point to opportunities to strengthen the efficiency and targeting of education spending. Introducing early diagnostic assessments and targeted remediation programs to address literacy and numeracy gaps and developing a comprehensive national teacher policy that strengthens professional development and includes performance incentives, are some of therecommendations the review makes. It also calls for expanding access to early childhood education by converting underutilized space in primary schools into nursery classrooms. The report recommends a systematic infrastructure investment strategy that introduces climate-resilient school upgrades. To enhance equity, the report calls for targeting support to students from lower-income households. The Barbados Education Sector Transformation program, recently approved by the Bank, will support Barbados in the implementation of many priority findings of the review. \"Barbados has built a strong foundation—near universal access to education and a committed teaching workforce. But translating that investment into the skills students need in a changing economy requires a sharper focus on quality, equity, and resilience,\" said Lilia Burunciuc, World Bank Director for the Caribbean. “The World Bank is pleased to support Barbados in this transformation.” The full report is available via the World Bank’s website.   Learn more about the work of the World Bank in Latin America and the Caribbean: via https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/caribbean    Visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/worldbankcaribbean   Learn more about the Ministry of Education Transformation: https://education.gov.bb/ Visit us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/medtbarbados/"},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" Bridgetown, Barbados, May 27, 2026: Barbados has built a solid track record  of investing in education, and it has a clear opportunity to ensure that investment translates into the skills students need in the world of work, according to a World Bank Education Public Expenditure Review released today during the launch of the Barbados Education Sector Transformation program. The review finds that Barbados allocates approximately 4.9 percent of GDP to education—broadly aligned with international benchmarks, and the education budget has remained relatively stable and protected during economic shocks. This has helped the country to achieve near-universal enrollment at the primary and secondary levels.  Yet, the system has struggled to translate that investment int"},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"Latin America & Caribbean, LCR"},"MDUyODJjMDEzM2JjYjNlYzJhMjk4YjM4MTM1NDkzYmNkNDk5YjY4MQ2":{"id":"MDUyODJjMDEzM2JjYjNlYzJhMjk4YjM4MTM1NDkzYmNkNDk5YjY4MQ2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/05/27/world-bank-group-helps-lesotho-to-expand-energy-access-and-economic-opportunity-for-nearly-147-000-people","count":"Lesotho","descr":{"cdata!":"The World Bank Group is helping Lesotho bring reliable, affordable electricity to nearly 147,000 residents and businesses, reduce energy poverty, and create the conditions for stronger household incomes and private sector growth through a $50 million credit from the International Development Association (IDA)."},"keywd":"country:Lesotho,regions:Africa,programs:mission-300","lang":"English","admreg":"Africa","title":{"cdata!":"World Bank Group Helps Lesotho to Expand Energy Access and Economic Opportunity for Nearly 147,000 People"},"cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/05/27/world-bank-group-helps-lesotho-to-expand-energy-access-and-economic-opportunity-for-nearly-147-000-people","lnchdt":"2026-05-27T13:12:00Z","regionname":"Africa","wcmsource":"cq5","country":"Lesotho","countcode":"LS","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" MASERU, May 27, 2026 — The World Bank Group is helping Lesotho bring reliable, affordable electricity to nearly 147,000 residents and businesses, reduce energy poverty, and create the conditions for stronger household incomes and private sector growth through a $50 million credit from the International Development Association (IDA). The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation in Lesotho (ASCENT – Lesotho) project will deploy an integrated approach to electrification focusing on expanding the grid network in peri-urban, rural and highland areas and last mile electrification deploying standalone solar systems to reach underserved and remote populations. ASCENT–Lesotho is part of the broader regional ASCENT program, which aims to accelerate electricity access across Eastern and Southern Africa in line with Mission 300, a joint World Bank Group–African Development Bank initiative to connect 300 million people to electricity by 2030. Despite significant progress in recent decades, the country continues to face challenges. Household electricity access has grown from 7% in 2004 to 59% in 2024, however at the current pace of roughly 4,000 new connections per year, the country may not meet its universal access goal by 2030, which requires more than 45,000 new connections annually. The gap is sharpest in rural areas, where only 43% of households have electricity compared to 84% in urban areas, and where many families still rely on kerosene, candles, and biomass for lighting and cooking. In response, ASCENT will expand grid connections across selected urban, peri-urban, and rural areas, with a focus on communities that have some of the lowest electrification rates in the country. For households that are unlikely to be reached by the grid in the near term, ASCENT will pilot innovative off-grid and distributed renewable energy solutions to ensure no community is left behind. The project will also deliver targeted technical assistance to support utility reform, strengthen national electrification planning, and promote the adoption of clean cooking which addresses both the structural and household-level barriers that have slowed progress toward universal energy access. Off-grid solar is critical to achieving universal energy access in Lesotho, providing a least-cost electrification option for households beyond the reach of the grid such as mountainous regions where grid extension is costly and technically complex. “Expanding access to reliable and sustainable electricity is critical to reducing energy poverty, improving household productivity, supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises growth, and strengthening essential social services. Expanding energy access contributes to the country’s broader development agenda,” says Retselisitsoe Matlanyane, Minister of Finance and Development Planning for Lesotho. Lesotho’s National Energy Compact under Mission 300 serves as the government's roadmap to establish the regulatory, institutional, and financial conditions needed for energy access to be delivered and sustained over time. These commitments are being operationalized through ASCENT–Lesotho, which directly supports implementation of the National Energy Compact. “Lesotho possesses abundant renewable energy resources such as solar, wind, and hydropower, which have the potential to surpass Lesotho’s energy needs. Harnessing these resources into transformational energy sources will ensure that every Mosotho has access to power,” says Dinara Djoldosheva, World Bank Country Representative for Lesotho. “This is a catalyst for job creation and private sector growth. The human cost of inadequate energy access falls disproportionately on women and girls and expanding electricity access will be an impactful intervention to reduce the energy burden in many households across Lesotho.” Beyond its direct investments, ASCENT Lesotho includes critical technical assistance to strengthen sector institutions, improve energy security, close the gender gap in energy access, and build market confidence laying the foundations for a sustainable and inclusive energy sector. Across its operations, the World Bank Group supports countries in creating more and better jobs by building the foundations for growth, strengthening private sector development, and mobilizing investment that expands economic opportunity. Contacts: World Bank Media Relations: press@worldbank.org"},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" MASERU, May 27, 2026 — The World Bank Group is helping Lesotho bring reliable, affordable electricity to nearly 147,000 residents and businesses, reduce energy poverty, and create the conditions for stronger household incomes and private sector growth through a $50 million credit from the International Development Association (IDA). The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation in Lesotho (ASCENT – Lesotho) project will deploy an integrated approach to electrification focusing on expanding the grid network in peri-urban, rural and highland areas and last mile electrification deploying standalone solar systems to reach underserved and remote populations. ASCENT–Lesotho is part of the broader regional ASCENT program, which aims to accelerate electricity access across Eastern and Southern Africa in line with Mission 300, a joint World Bank Group–African Development Bank initiative to connect 300 million people to electricity by 2030. Despite significant progress in "},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"Africa, AFR"},"YWU0NDFlMDEwNDNjYTEwY2I0ODc0OGQ3OGNkOGQxNDU0MDQxN2MyNw2":{"id":"YWU0NDFlMDEwNDNjYTEwY2I0ODc0OGQ3OGNkOGQxNDU0MDQxN2MyNw2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/05/27/world-bank-group-debars-china-national-technical-import-export-corporation","descr":{"cdata!":"The World Bank Group today announced the 18-month debarment with conditional release of China National Technical Import & Export Corporation (CNTIC), a Beijing, People’s Republic of China-based state-owned enterprise that specializes in technology trade, engineering, and project contracting. The sanction was imposed in connection with fraudulent practices affecting three World Bank-financed projects: the National Transmission Modernization I Project in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Enhancement and Strengthening of Power Transmission Network in Eastern Region Project in the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, and the Accelerating Renewable Energy Integration and Sustainable Energy Project in the Republic of Maldives."},"keywd":"subject:integrity-and-anti-corruption,subject:anti-corruption","lang":"English","title":{"cdata!":"World Bank Group Debars China National Technical Import & Export Corporation"},"topic":"Integrity-and-anti-corruption,Anti-corruption","cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/05/27/world-bank-group-debars-china-national-technical-import-export-corporation","lnchdt":"2026-05-27T10:14:00Z","wcmsource":"cq5","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" WASHINGTON, May 27, 2026—The World Bank Group today announced the 18-month debarment with conditional release of China National Technical Import & Export Corporation (CNTIC), a Beijing, People’s Republic of China-based state-owned enterprise that specializes in technology trade, engineering, and project contracting. The sanction was imposed in connection with fraudulent practices affecting three World Bank-financed projects: the National Transmission Modernization I Project in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Enhancement and Strengthening of Power Transmission Network in Eastern Region Project in the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, and the Accelerating Renewable Energy Integration and Sustainable Energy Project in the Republic of Maldives. These projects aimed to strengthen power transmission systems and energy sector capacity by improving grid reliability, expanding transmission infrastructure, and supporting renewable energy integration. Under the facts of the case, CNTIC failed to disclose current contract commitments and pending or historic litigation in bids for contracts under the projects. The company also failed to disclose intended commissions or fees to third parties and misrepresented key personnel under the project in Pakistan. These were fraudulent practices under the World Bank’s Anti-Corruption Framework. The debarment makes CNTIC, and any firms or individuals that it controls, ineligible to participate in projects and operations financed by institutions of the World Bank Group. The debarment is part of a settlement agreement under which the company acknowledges responsibility for the underlying sanctionable practices and agrees to meet specified conditions for release from sanction. The settlement agreement provides for a reduced period of debarment in light of the company’s cooperation and voluntary remedial actions. As a condition for release from sanction under the terms of the settlement agreement, the company commits to developing and implementing an integrity compliance program that reflects the principles set out in the World Bank Group Integrity Compliance Guidelines. The company also commits to continue to fully cooperate with the World Bank Group Integrity Vice Presidency. The debarment of CNTIC qualifies for cross-debarment by other multilateral development banks (MDBs) under the Agreement for Mutual Enforcement of Debarment Decisions that was signed on April 9, 2010."},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" WASHINGTON, May 27, 2026—The World Bank Group today announced the 18-month debarment with conditional release of China National Technical Import & Export Corporation (CNTIC), a Beijing, People’s Republic of China-based state-owned enterprise that specializes in technology trade, engineering, and project contracting. The sanction was imposed in connection with fraudulent practices affecting three World Bank-financed projects: the National Transmission Modernization I Project in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Enhancement and Strengthening of Power Transmission Network in Eastern Region Project in the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, and the Accelerating Renewable Energy Integration and Sustainable Energy Project in the Republic of Maldives. These projects aimed to strengthen power transmission systems and energy sector capacity by improving grid reliability, expanding transmission infrastructure, and supporting renewable energy integration. Under the facts of the case, CNTIC"},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"Integrity Vice Presidency, INT"},"YmIyNzFkZTU4MTIxOWZlYjQ0Y2JjYzkxM2Q1YTg2YmM0NDU2NDc5OQ2":{"id":"YmIyNzFkZTU4MTIxOWZlYjQ0Y2JjYzkxM2Q1YTg2YmM0NDU2NDc5OQ2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/05/26/afghanistan-s-economy-shows-resilience-but-living-standards-are-falling","descr":{"cdata!":"Afghanistan’s economy continues to grow modestly – with real GDP estimated at 4.8 percent -- despite regional tensions and border closures, driven in part by strong domestic demand and the return of millions of Afghans to the country. Yet this growth is not translating to better living standards or higher incomes."},"lang":"English","title":{"cdata!":"Afghanistan’s Economy Shows Resilience but living standards are falling"},"cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/05/26/afghanistan-s-economy-shows-resilience-but-living-standards-are-falling","lnchdt":"2026-05-26T13:40:49Z","wcmsource":"cq5","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" KABUL, May 26, 2026 — Afghanistan’s economy continues to grow modestly – with real GDP estimated at 4.8 percent -- despite regional tensions and border closures, driven in part by strong domestic demand and the return of millions of Afghans to the country. Yet this growth is not translating to better living standards or higher incomes. Rapid population growth of around 11 percent in 2025, weak investment, and deepening structural constraints are eroding its benefits, according to the World Bank’s latest Afghanistan Development Update. The Spring 2026 report offers an in-depth assessment of recent economic developments and the medium-term outlook, with a special focus on private sector development. The return of around 3.7 million Afghans has outpaced economic expansion, resulting in a 5.6 percent decline in GDP per capita. At the same time, inflation has accelerated, further eroding household purchasing power. After averaging 3.6 percent, inflation climbed to 7.6 percent by March 2026, driven by food price pressures, supply constraints, and strong demand. These developments are compounding already severe food insecurity and poverty across the country. Domestic revenue collection improved significantly, reaching 19.8 percent of GDP in 2025, supported by stronger tax enforcement. However, a decline in external grants has resulted in limited investment in infrastructure and the ability to respond to economic shocks.   Afghanistan’s external position remains fragile, with a widening trade deficit driven by strong import demand and weak export performance. The current account deficit is estimated to have widened to 36.1 percent of GDP in 2025, reflecting structural dependence on imports and declining external inflows. The private sector shows signs of resilience but remains constrained. Firm-level data indicate a rebound in sales, employment, and investment since 2022. However, structural barriers—including unreliable electricity, limited access to finance, and widespread informality—continue to impede sustained growth and job creation.   “Afghanistan’s economy is showing resilience in the face of significant headwinds, but growth alone is not enough,” said Faris Hadad-Zervos, World Bank Country Director for Afghanistan. “With millions of Afghans returning home, rapid population growth is outpacing economic gains – pushing down incomes and deepening poverty and fragility. Unlocking the private sector’s potential and improving access to finance are some of the essential steps to help drive job creation and, ultimately, improve people’s lives.”  Looking ahead, economic growth is projected to moderate to around 4 percent in 2026, but may be lower depending on the duration and severity of the conflict in the Middle East. Continued population growth, declining aid, and external shocks—especially from regional instability—are expected to weigh on the outlook.  Sustaining recovery will require policies that strengthen the private sector, improve access to finance, invest in infrastructure, and create opportunities for productive employment. Addressing structural constraints will be critical to improved livelihoods and more resilient, inclusive growth. About the Afghanistan Development Update: The Afghanistan Development Update is part of the World Bank’s ongoing research, monitoring, and analytical work on Afghanistan’s economy and society. It aims to support evidence-based policymaking and inform the international community on economic developments in Afghanistan."},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" KABUL, May 26, 2026 — Afghanistan’s economy continues to grow modestly – with real GDP estimated at 4.8 percent -- despite regional tensions and border closures, driven in part by strong domestic demand and the return of millions of Afghans to the country. Yet this growth is not translating to better living standards or higher incomes. Rapid population growth of around 11 percent in 2025, weak investment, and deepening structural constraints are eroding its benefits, according to the World Bank’s latest Afghanistan Development Update. The Spring 2026 report offers an in-depth assessment of recent economic developments and the medium-term outlook, with a special focus on private sector development. The return of around 3.7 million Afghans has outpaced economic expansion, resulting in a 5.6 percent decline in GDP per capita. At the same time, inflation has accelerated, further eroding household purchasing power. After averaging 3.6 percent, inflation climbed to 7.6 percent by March 2026"},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"External and Corporate Relations - Corporate Communications, ECRCC"},"ZWUzYWQ0YWQ1YWM5MTM5Y2M2ZWNkNTNmMmJkY2JiZjZiY2M1ZDk4ZQ2":{"id":"ZWUzYWQ0YWQ1YWM5MTM5Y2M2ZWNkNTNmMmJkY2JiZjZiY2M1ZDk4ZQ2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/05/21/economic-strain-deepens-in-yemen-as-regional-risks-intensify","count":"Yemen","descr":{"cdata!":"Yemen’s economy remains under strain, having contracted again in 2025 and now facing additional pressures linked to the conflict in the Middle East, according to the World Bank’s latest Yemen Economic Monitor.."},"keywd":"country:Yemen,regions:Middle East and North Africa,organization:World Bank Group,organization:World Bank,sites:world-bank,sites:world-bank-group,subject:fragility-conflict-and-violence,subject:economic growth analytics,subject:economic growth,subject:fiscal policy,subject:macroeconomic and structural policies","lang":"English","admreg":"Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, & Pakistan","title":{"cdata!":"Economic Strain Deepens in Yemen as Regional Risks Intensify"},"topic":"Fragility-conflict-and-violence,Economic Growth Analytics,Economic Growth,Fiscal Policy,Macroeconomic And Structural Policies","unit":"World Bank Group,World Bank","cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/05/21/economic-strain-deepens-in-yemen-as-regional-risks-intensify","lnchdt":"2026-05-21T09:00:00Z","regionname":"Middle East and North Africa","wcmsource":"cq5","country":"Yemen","countcode":"YE","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" WASHINGTON, May 21, 2026 – Yemen’s economy remains under strain, having contracted again in 2025 and now facing additional pressures linked to the conflict in the Middle East, according to the World Bank’s latest Yemen Economic Monitor. The Spring 2026 edition, \"Pushing Against the Tide,\" finds that national real GDP declined by 1.5 percent in 2025 and is projected to contract by a further 0.5 percent in 2026, weighed down by persistent structural constraints and external shocks. Economic conditions in 2025 remained difficult. Oil exports are still blocked, and activity across sectors continues to be held back by a challenging business environment, limited access to finance, and weak domestic demand. At the same time, humanitarian financing fell sharply, with funding for the UN Response Plan covering only 28 percent of needs — down from 56.5 percent in 2024. Fiscal pressures intensified as revenues fell to 5.6 percent of GDP, driven by reduced external grants. The resulting reduction in expenditure has affected salary payments, subsidies, and essential spending — underscoring the country’s severely limited fiscal space. Monetary developments were shaped by the Central Bank’s exchange rate stabilization measures. The Yemeni rial in Aden appreciated sharply in August 2025 and has since stabilized, supported by Central Bank measures and external inflows, including Saudi financial support. While this has helped ease inflation, the situation remains fragile, particularly as remittances, exports, and aid — the main sources of income for the country — remain weak. The escalation of regional conflict has further clouded the outlook. Since most essential goods are sourced from abroad, Yemen is highly exposed to rising global prices, supply disruptions, and increased shipping costs, all of which are expected to increase inflation and further erode households’ purchasing power. Households remain highly vulnerable: nearly three-quarters of the population is estimated to live below the poverty line, and a large share does not have enough to eat. \"Yemen’s economy continues to face profound challenges, with limited buffers to absorb new shocks,\" said Dina Abu-Ghaida, World Bank Group Country Manager for Yemen. \"Sustaining macroeconomic stability, protecting basic services, and supporting jobs and livelihoods will require continued engagement from development partners, alongside progress toward peace and institutional stability.\" Despite operating in an exceptionally challenging environment, the Internationally Recognized Government has taken meaningful steps toward stabilization. These include a comprehensive 2026 reform agenda and a budget that seeks to maintain fiscal discipline. These commitments offer a potential pathway toward stability and recovery, though their success will depend on continued reform implementation and sustained support from international partners."},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" WASHINGTON, May 21, 2026 – Yemen’s economy remains under strain, having contracted again in 2025 and now facing additional pressures linked to the conflict in the Middle East, according to the World Bank’s latest Yemen Economic Monitor. The Spring 2026 edition, \"Pushing Against the Tide,\" finds that national real GDP declined by 1.5 percent in 2025 and is projected to contract by a further 0.5 percent in 2026, weighed down by persistent structural constraints and external shocks. Economic conditions in 2025 remained difficult. Oil exports are still blocked, and activity across sectors continues to be held back by a challenging business environment, limited access to finance, and weak domestic demand. At the same time, humanitarian financing fell sharply, with funding for the UN Response Plan covering only 28 percent of needs — down from 56.5 percent in 2024. Fiscal pressures intensified as revenues fell to 5.6 percent of GDP, driven by reduced external grants. The resulting reduc"},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"Middle East & North Africa Afghanistan & Pakistan, MNA"},"MzdlNzMwNTE2OGE3ZGE4NmJhZDBjMmQ4YTg5ZjNjMDdjMzVlMWExZQ2":{"id":"MzdlNzMwNTE2OGE3ZGE4NmJhZDBjMmQ4YTg5ZjNjMDdjMzVlMWExZQ2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/05/20/barbados-to-strengthen-water-security-with-world-bank-support","count":"Barbados","descr":{"cdata!":"The program uses a Program-for-Results approach, in which financing is released only when specific, independently verified results are achieved, including reduced water losses, improved customer service, and completed regulatory reforms."},"keywd":"country:Barbados","lang":"English","title":{"cdata!":"Barbados to Strengthen Water Security with World Bank Support"},"cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/05/20/barbados-to-strengthen-water-security-with-world-bank-support","lnchdt":"2026-05-20T11:39:10Z","wcmsource":"cq5","country":"Barbados","countcode":"BB","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" Washington, D.C., May 20, 2026: The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors has approved the Barbados Water Security and Sector Performance Program, a new project that will strengthen water security in Barbados, helping to reduce water losses, expand sanitation services and protect livelihoods which depend on reliable water services. Barbados is one of the most water-scarce countries in the world. The island relies on groundwater for 86 percent of its water supply and is already extracting nearly as much groundwater as can be safely removed each year without causing permanent damage to its reserves, while water demand is projected to grow by 30 percent by 2050. The Barbados Water Authority (BWA) currently loses about 50% of all water produced before it reaches consumers - through leaking pipes, inaccurate meters, and billing gaps. Approximately 80 percent of the island’s land area is vulnerable to groundwater contamination from poorly managed sewage disposal. Untreated waste reaching coastal waters impacts marine ecosystems which tourism and jobs depend on. The US $54.7 million program addresses these challenges across three areas. The first focuses on modernizing the BWA’s operations - deploying a private sector partner to work alongside utility staff, improving billing and metering systems, reducing pipe losses, and increasing revenues. The second expands sanitation services, supporting 2,000 new household sewage connections and introducing regulations for the safe collection and treatment of waste. The third strengthens governance, establishing a national groundwater monitoring system and a high-level coordination body linking water management to agriculture, energy, and climate planning. “By improving how the utility operates, expanding sanitation, and strengthening water governance, this program directly supports economic growth and resilience in Barbados. Over the lifetime of the project the program is expected to generate and protect up to 58,000 jobs,\" said Lilia Burunciuc, World Bank Director for the Caribbean.  The Barbados program is phase 1 of the Caribbean Regional Water Security Program, a regional initiative also covering Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, and Saint Lucia. The program comprises a US$4.7 million grant from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) Surplus-Funded Livable Planet Fund and US$50 million in financing from IBRD.  The program uses a Program-for-Results approach, in which financing is released only when specific, independently verified results are achieved, including reduced water losses, improved customer service, and completed regulatory reforms.  The program will be implemented over five years by the Barbados Water Authority. Learn more about the World Bank in Latin America and the Caribbean: https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/caribbean Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/worldbankcaribbean   "},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" Washington, D.C., May 20, 2026: The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors has approved the Barbados Water Security and Sector Performance Program, a new project that will strengthen water security in Barbados, helping to reduce water losses, expand sanitation services and protect livelihoods which depend on reliable water services. Barbados is one of the most water-scarce countries in the world. The island relies on groundwater for 86 percent of its water supply and is already extracting nearly as much groundwater as can be safely removed each year without causing permanent damage to its reserves, while water demand is projected to grow by 30 percent by 2050. The Barbados Water Authority (BWA) currently loses about 50% of all water produced before it reaches consumers - through leaking pipes, inaccurate meters, and billing gaps. Approximately 80 percent of the island’s land area is vulnerable to groundwater contamination from poorly managed sewage disposal. Untreated waste reachin"},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"Latin America & Caribbean, LCR"},"YmFhY2I2NDViZmM0OWMzNDBlYTZhOTMxZTIyYjE2Mzc3YWYzNTA2MQ2":{"id":"YmFhY2I2NDViZmM0OWMzNDBlYTZhOTMxZTIyYjE2Mzc3YWYzNTA2MQ2","url":"http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/05/20/world-bank-approves-new-strategy-for-belize-to-support-growth-jobs-the-energy-transition-and-skills-development","count":"Belize","descr":{"cdata!":"The Country Partnership Framework will deploy a \"One World Bank Group\" approach, combining the resources of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), the International Development Association (IDA), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) to help Belize achieve its development goals."},"keywd":"country:Belize","lang":"English","title":{"cdata!":"World Bank Approves New Strategy for Belize to Support Growth, Jobs, the Energy Transition, and Skills Development"},"cqpath":"/content/wb-home/en/news/press-release/2026/05/20/world-bank-approves-new-strategy-for-belize-to-support-growth-jobs-the-energy-transition-and-skills-development","lnchdt":"2026-05-20T07:20:10Z","wcmsource":"cq5","country":"Belize","countcode":"BZ","conttype":"Press Release","content":{"cdata!":" Washington, D.C. May 19, 2026: The World Bank Group's Board of Executive Directors have approved a new Country Partnership Framework for Belize. The strategy focuses on expanding economic opportunity and creating more and better jobs for Belizeans by spurring private sector-led growth, improving energy reliability, and building a better skilled workforce while strengthening the country's resilience to natural hazards. With a GDP of US$3 billion and a population of roughly 420,000, tourism in Belize contributes 45 percent of GDP, but the country is among the most exposed in the region to climate impacts. The government’s ambitious reform agenda has resulted in public debt being cut from 103 to 62 percent of GDP, unemployment standing at a historic low of 2.1 percent, and growth rebounding. The new strategy builds on this momentum, supporting the government's #PlanBelize development strategy through targeted World Bank Group interventions.  Degradation of Belize’s barrier reef threatens livelihoods in tourism and agriculture and increases climate risks. The Framework will therefore support the government in addressing these constraints through investments in water, sanitation, and waste management in coastal hubs, as well as climate-resilient farming practices, while helping to build foundations for Belize to develop as a logistics hub, connecting the Caribbean and Central America. “We are committed to building on the fiscal stability and economic progress Belize has achieved over the past five years, and steering our economy toward stronger, more inclusive growth,\" said Prime Minister of Belize, John Briceño. “This partnership with the World Bank Group will support us in that effort.”  Despite a near 50 percent increase in energy demand at peak, half of Belize's electricity is imported on volatile spot-market terms and little new generation capacity has been added in over a decade. In Belize’s workforce, shortages of skilled labor are evident and the gender gap is particularly acute - in mid-2025, only 46.9 percent of working-age women were in the workforce compared to 72.3 percent of men, partly due to childcare responsibilities. To support the energy transition, the strategy will strengthen energy policy and the regulatoryframework, improve management of the distribution network, and help structure public-private partnerships to crowd in private investment. On skills, the framework proposes investing in early childhood education and care in underserved regions, freeing up women to work and study. “The World Bank Group is steadfast in supporting Belize's next phase of growth - helping to create the conditions for private investment, accelerating the energy transition, and expanding skills and opportunities for Belizeans to participate in that growth,\" said Lilia Burunciuc, World Bank Director for the Caribbean. The Country Partnership Framework will deploy a \"One World Bank Group\" approach, combining the resources of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), the International Development Association (IDA), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) to help Belize achieve its development goals. Belize benefits from highly concessional financing through the IDA’s Small States Exception.    Learn more about the work of the World Bank in Latin America and the Caribbean: https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/caribbean    Visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/worldbankcaribbean    "},"content_1000":{"cdata!":" Washington, D.C. May 19, 2026: The World Bank Group's Board of Executive Directors have approved a new Country Partnership Framework for Belize. The strategy focuses on expanding economic opportunity and creating more and better jobs for Belizeans by spurring private sector-led growth, improving energy reliability, and building a better skilled workforce while strengthening the country's resilience to natural hazards. With a GDP of US$3 billion and a population of roughly 420,000, tourism in Belize contributes 45 percent of GDP, but the country is among the most exposed in the region to climate impacts. The government’s ambitious reform agenda has resulted in public debt being cut from 103 to 62 percent of GDP, unemployment standing at a historic low of 2.1 percent, and growth rebounding. The new strategy builds on this momentum, supporting the government's #Pla"},"displayconttype":"Press Release","originating_unit":"Latin America & Caribbean, LCR"},"facets":{"displayconttype_exact":{"0":{"count":15335,"name":"Press Release","label":"Press Release"}},"topic_exact":{"0":{"count":1625,"name":"Financial Sector Development","label":"Financial Sector Development"},"1":{"count":1291,"name":"Capital Markets","label":"Capital Markets"},"2":{"count":1141,"name":"Economic Growth","label":"Economic Growth"},"3":{"count":828,"name":"Climate Change","label":"Climate Change"},"4":{"count":821,"name":"Health","label":"Health"},"5":{"count":798,"name":"Environment And Natural Resources","label":"Environment And Natural Resources"},"6":{"count":789,"name":"Education","label":"Education"},"7":{"count":743,"name":"Jobs And Development","label":"Jobs And Development"},"8":{"count":642,"name":"Energy And Extractives","label":"Energy And Extractives"},"9":{"count":587,"name":"Agriculture And 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