Institutionalizing social analysis at the World Bank

This paper considers the ways in which social analysis has developed and been institutionalized in the World Bank. It briefly sketches a history of the ways in which social factors have been taken into account in Bank operations and assesses the extent to which conditions have been met for successfully integrating a social perspective within this particular institutional context and culture. The paper concludes that considerable progress has been made in increasing awareness of social issues, introducing policies in certain key areas, operationalizing social assessment procedures, and increasing social science staffing. Current management interest in social development presents a strategic opportunity to consolidate the gains already achieved. However, substantial challenges remain. Most importantly a clearly articulated and integrated social policy is lacking, and the circumstances in which social analysis should be required have yet to be codified. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Inc.