Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF)

A Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) is a project-level instrument prepared under the World Bank's environmental and social standards when land acquisition or displacement is anticipated but the specific affected areas and populations cannot yet be determined, establishing the policy commitments, entitlements, and procedures that will apply once site details are known.

What is an RPF?

Under ESS5 of the World Bank's esf and the legacy OP 4.12 Safeguard Policy, an RPF is prepared instead of a full Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) when the exact footprint of project activities is not defined at appraisal. This commonly occurs in projects with multiple subprojects, sector investment operations, or emergency operations where implementation details emerge progressively. The RPF sets out: the legal and regulatory framework governing land acquisition in the borrowing country, how gaps between national law and World Bank requirements will be bridged, the entitlement matrix describing compensation and assistance for each category of displaced person, and the process for preparing site-specific RAPs as locations are confirmed.

The RPF is publicly disclosed before project approval and feeds the grm obligations and the sia baseline. Site-specific RAPs prepared under the RPF are typically disclosed before civil works begin at each location, and their implementation is often a condition of the contractor commencing work.

Why an RPF matters for bidders

Civil works contractors on projects covered by an RPF may not be permitted to commence construction at a given site until the borrower confirms that resettlement actions at that site are complete or on track. Delays in RAP implementation have halted construction on major infrastructure projects for months. Suppliers should review the project's RPF and check whether site-specific RAPs are in place before pricing schedules, and should factor potential resettlement-related suspension clauses into their risk allowances. Experienced contractors also verify that the RPF's entitlement standards have been translated into contract provisions governing how they must treat workers and community members who lose access to land or assets during construction.

FAQ

What is the difference between an RPF and a Resettlement Action Plan?

An RPF is a framework document setting principles and procedures for future resettlement planning. A Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) is a site-specific instrument prepared once the affected population and assets are identified, implementing the RPF's commitments for a particular location.

Does the RPF apply when no one is physically displaced?

Yes. ESS5 and OP 4.12 cover both physical displacement and economic displacement, meaning people who lose access to land or resources they depend on even if they do not move. The RPF must address both categories.

Where can bidders find the RPF for a project?

The RPF is publicly disclosed on the development bank's project portal (for World Bank projects, at projects.worldbank.org) and on the borrower's project website, typically several months before procurement begins.