From 1-4 October 2024, the EIB Group’s Complaints Mechanism (EIBG-CM) participated in the 21st edition of the Annual Meeting of the Independent Accountability Mechanisms Network (IAMnet) held in Manila this year.
The event was co-hosted by the Asian Development Bank’s Accountability Mechanism and the Independent Redress Mechanism of the Green Climate Fund
This meeting brought together over 60 participants, including representatives from 23 Independent Accountability Mechanisms (IAMs) linked to development finance institutions, for four days of in-depth discussions on accountability practices and trends.
These annual meetings provide a vital platform for IAMs to exchange experiences, share knowledge, and discuss both successes and challenges faced in their work. The meetings aimed to strengthen accountability practices and explore innovations that improve the impact of development projects.
The meeting features several insightful sessions that delve into key issues shaping the work of the IAMs, such as managing policy reviews, improving collaboration in complaint handling, and addressing challenges in dispute resolution cases.
A significant aspect of this gathering is the participation of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), which serve as an important bridge between IAMs and communities affected by development initiatives. This year’s session featured over 40 CSO representatives, providing a valuable opportunity for participants to engage with civil society on key concerns, such as the independence of IAMs.
The meetings are seen as crucial for advancing the work of accountability, as they allow IAMs to learn from each other’s experiences and strengthen their efforts to address community concerns. The collaboration between IAMs and CSOs is particularly essential in ensuring that the voices of those impacted by development projects are heard and addressed effectively.
The EIBG-CM looks forward to applying the lessons learned during this event to enhance EIB’s accountability and improve the oversight of the projects. These gatherings are not just opportunities for discussion but serve as a reminder of our commitment to the communities affected by the projects we oversee.