The global demand for critical minerals is rising rapidly as countries expand energy, transport, and digital infrastructure. Developing countries hold many of the world’s most important metals and minerals, creating a major opportunity to support jobs, infrastructure development, industrial growth, and community benefits. At the same time, there are important questions around governance, environmental and social impacts, community benefits, and economic inclusion.

In response, the World Bank Group has defined an approach to metals and minerals that will quintuple support to the sector in the next five years. The WBG’s work will help countries strengthen governance, build infrastructure and human capital, mobilize responsible private investment, and support more resilient and inclusive mineral supply chains. The strategy reflects a growing focus on helping countries capture greater long-term development benefits from their natural resources, including through local value addition, supplier development, and job creation.

This discussion on metals and minerals will convene civil society organizations to learn more about the World Bank Group’s approach and ongoing work in the sector. The session will provide an opportunity to engage directly with World Bank Group experts, ask questions, provide feedback, and exchange perspectives on how metals and minerals development can better support developing countries.