Accountability Mechanism: Listening to Communities Affected by ADB-Assisted Projects and Enhancing Development Effectiveness

Abstract

In May 2003, ADB approved a new accountability mechanism to replace the previous Inspection Function. The mechanism was established to provide better access for people adversely affected by ADBassisted projects to voice and seek solutions to their problems and also report alleged violations of ADB’s operational policies and procedures. Establishment of the mechanism is also an effort to enhance ADB’s development effectiveness, project quality, and transparency in operations. The key feature of the mechanism is its two related functions: consultation and compliance review. The first is consultation among stakeholders focusing on problem solving. If a satisfactory solution cannot be reached, a filing of complaint for consultation is found ineligible, or the consultation process has reached an advanced stage and there are concerns on compliance issues, it is possible to request a compliance review.In May 2003, ADB approved a new accountability mechanism to replace the previous Inspection Function. The mechanism was established to provide better access for people adversely affected by ADBassisted projects to voice and seek solutions to their problems and also report alleged violations of ADB’s operational policies and procedures. Establishment of the mechanism is also an effort to enhance ADB’s development effectiveness, project quality, and transparency in operations. The key feature of the mechanism is its two related functions: consultation and compliance review. The first is consultation among stakeholders focusing on problem solving. If a satisfactory solution cannot be reached, a filing of complaint for consultation is found ineligible, or the consultation process has reached an advanced stage and there are concerns on compliance issues, it is possible to request a compliance review.