Countering shrinking space: How multilateral development banks can empower civil society in the Western Balkans, Caucasus and Central Asia
February 25, 2025
This report examines how multilateral development banks have failed to adequately protect civil society in the Caucasus, Western Balkans, and Central Asia.
A call to defend the independence of accountability mechanisms
October 9, 2023
Bankwatch joins other community advocates around the world in sounding the alarm about growing threats to the independence of accountability mechanisms attached to international financial institutions and other development agencies.
How to ensure public control over projects funded by development banks in non-democratic regimes
July 5, 2021
In a series of video tutorials, we demonstrate tools civil society organisations and activists from Uzbekistan can use to have a say about projects supported by development banks that may affect their communities and the environment.
Actions speak louder than words: gender equality policies in development banks
March 8, 2021
Promoting gender rights and women’s empowerment has become a trend among multilateral development banks (MDBs). Organising discussions on best practices and promoting gender-related issues is welcome, but it is crucial that banks ensure meaningful protection and support to the women most affected by international public investments.
Dirty palms: European Development Banks need better due diligence and accountability to prevent human rights abuses
November 29, 2019
Long considered the standard-setters in the world of development finance, Multilateral Development Banks are now at an important junction. Europe’s development financiers must step up their accountability and commitment to protection of people and nature.
A Private Affair: Report shows how development finance institutions benefit the rich in Western countries
July 11, 2014
A new report shows how private western-based companies are benefiting from multilateral development banks’ support while governments and citizens in recipient countries are delegated to the sidelines.
