The World Bank Group is increasing its efforts to support job creation and economic resilience in the Pacific region, according to Anna Bjerde, Managing Director of Operations. Bjerde recently completed a week-long visit to Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and Australia, where she discussed new strategies for faster and more impactful development.
During her trip, Bjerde announced changes to the World Bank’s procurement policies. Under the new framework, companies bidding on international civil works contracts must ensure that 30 percent of labor costs go to local workers.
“The World Bank Group is proud to support the people of the Pacific with solutions that address development challenges in the region, with jobs at the center—giving young people the chance to shape their own future,” said Ms. Bjerde. “We see the effects of slowing growth, climate shocks, and global policy uncertainty, but Pacific nations are pioneering regional initiatives and investing in the foundations for jobs and inclusive growth.”
While in Fiji, Bjerde attended the Pacific Islands Forum Economic Ministers Meeting. She highlighted how important it is for smaller Pacific nations to have access to international financial institutions. The World Bank is backing a regional correspondent banking project that now operates in eight countries across the region.
In Papua New Guinea, Bjerde met Prime Minister James Marape and visited youth participating in an urban employment initiative aimed at developing skills and supporting communities. “Supporting inclusive job creation, especially for young people, is key to Papua New Guinea’s development and is central to the World Bank Group’s approach to promoting prosperity,” she said.
Bjerde also pointed out that there has been a significant increase in World Bank technical staff across Pacific nations. New director-level positions have been established in Suva and Port Moresby as part of efforts to bring more expertise closer to local governments.
World Bank operations have expanded sharply in Papua New Guinea and throughout the Pacific over the past 12 years. There are currently 86 active projects totaling $3.4 billion in commitments across these countries. In fiscal year 2025 alone, about half of all investment was dedicated specifically to climate financing projects designed for resilience.
Bjerde ended her visit by meeting Australian officials and partners to discuss further cooperation within the region. She acknowledged Australia’s vital support for both regional development programs and IDA—the branch of the World Bank Group providing concessional funds for Papua New Guinea and most other Pacific Island states.