Many countries have established public sector banks with the mission, among others, of serving the underserved. We are aware of eight countries that have specific legislation or government policies on the provision of services to underserved populations by private sector banks. There are likely to be other countries with mandates on the private sector that have escaped our attention. This report briefly describes the background of banking needs in each country and summarizes the history, and the current status of, each country's legislation.

From our U.S. experience, we know that community reinvestment legislation can significantly improve the provision of financial services and, hence, the economic health of lower-income consumers and communities. We also know that such legislation attracts powerful opponents in the financial services industry. This brief report is a first step to invite collaboration among countries that have such provisions, to share opportunities and challenges and to inform other countries of the benefits of such legislation.

Woodstock Institute welcomes information about changes in the various laws and in their implementation in the countries listed, and information about similar policies in other countries.