Portal
The ADB Campaign has contributed specific changes in Bank policy in terms of improved social and environmental guidelines for projects, new Bankwide lending priorities, Bank initiatives in defining sectoral priorities on forestry, energy, population, involuntary resettlement, and information disclosure, and a somewhat improved and more open attitude to dialogue with NGOs and communities.
The Campaign has also expanded, now involving some 80 organizations. An NGO Working Group on the ADB was established in 1992, and practical lessons were gained from the seven year campaign experience.
Whether the ADB can match its newly-enlightened policy rhetoric remains to be seen. However, much will depend on the continued vigilance, monitoring and action by NGOs and public interest groups. Meanwhile, the continuing thrust of the ADB Campaign will include forging a regional consensus on more strategic interventions both within the Bank and DMCs, as well as on sharpening the debate on people’s alternatives.
