Population Policy Paper: Framework for Bank Assistance to the Population Sector

Abstract

The Bank's role in the population sector is on the verge of a transformation due to the pressing needs of its developing member countries (DMCs) to manage population growth in accordance with their plans to promote efficient and equitable economic growth* Through its Medium-term Strategic Planning framework, the Bank recognizes the critical importance of supporting the right of couples to determine their family size in accordance with accepted cultural and ethical norms respecting freedom of choice. Consistent with this approach, a Working Group was convened to examine the Bank's policy on population, identify key areas for assistance, and recommend an analytical framework for deciding on the appropriate manner of assisting DMCs based on their capacity and willingness to use Bank assistance. 3. At the same time, an important dialogue on population policy and lessons learned by DMCs in the region was initiated, culminating in a Population Symposium in the Bank's Headquarters in July, 1993 which was attended by invited population planners and planning commission officials in eight DMCs. This Symposium raised the level of mutual understanding about the sector and set the stage for a thorough review of Bank policy.