Document Type
Essay
Publication Date
2023
Abstract
The establishment of the Inspection Panel marked a turning point for the World Bank, at a time when the notion of accountability in international financial institutions was still nascent. Triggered by people's movements, this bold experiment aimed at transparency faced hurdles as the Bank was immune to legal consequences, and over a while, it weakened the Panel's mandate. The 2019 US Supreme Court decision stripping the Bank of absolute immunity reshapes its accountability landscape. Post-immunity, the Panel gains renewed significance, scrutinizing and recommending actions. Legal repercussions for non-compliance bring a paradigm shift, compelling the Bank to enhance transparency, engage communities, and fortify safeguards. Amid challenges and past lapses, a recalibrated Panel, empowered to prevent harm, emerges crucial for a more just, transparent, and equitable global development landscape.
Recommended Citation
Athialy, Joe, "The World Bank, the Inspection Panel & Immunity" (2023). Perspectives. 13.
https://digitalcommons.wcl.american.edu/accountability-perspectives/13
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