Social License Recognized as Essential Pillar in Sustainable Development

Over the past several years, the World Bank has steadily underscored that securing a social license to operate (SLO) is as critical as obtaining formal legal permits for infrastructure development. In its updated Environmental and Social Framework, as well as in project guidelines and advisory publications, the Bank has emphasized that community trust, transparency, and inclusive participation are decisive factors shaping whether infrastructure investments succeed or fail. Even when financing is secured and regulatory approvals are granted, projects without strong local legitimacy often face delays, escalating costs, or suspension. This evolving approach reflects a shift away from treating stakeholder engagement as a compliance formality and toward recognizing it as a strategic necessity.