ADB Cooperation with Civil Society: Annual Report 2005

Abstract

In 2005, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) involved hundreds of civil society organizations (CSOs) across Asia and the Pacific in the development and implementation of projects, formulation of country and subregional strategies, and review of the implementation of its Water Policy. The year also witnessed wide-ranging consultation sessions with advocacy non-government organizations (NGOs) and workers representatives, changes to ADB guidelines to make it easier to involve grass-roots CSOs in projects, and the awarding of small grants to dozens of non-profit organizations. The new Public Communications Policy entered into effect in September 2005, greatly expanding the range of information made publicly available to CSOs and others interested in ADB operations. In short, the year witnessed a diverse and very extensive engagement of CSOs on many levels.