A Toolkit for MENA Activists: Understanding the World Bank’s Different Lending Instruments (DPF, PfoR, IPF)
Introduction to the Toolkit
This is the second toolkit produced by Arab Watch Coalition (AWC) in a series designed to equip Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and activists with the knowledge and tools necessary to engage with International Financial Institutions. Specifically, this toolkit provides a comprehensive understanding of the World Bank’s financing instruments and the associated policies that govern their use. It serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to monitor World Bank-funded projects in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. With the World Bank’s project portfolio in the MENA region valued at approximately $25.9 billion, understanding these mechanisms and policies is essential for effectively evaluating World Bank projects, identifying potential policy breaches, and holding the Bank accountable.
Purpose and Scope
The toolkit is structured to guide users through the different aspects of World Bank financing. Starting with an introduction to the World Bank’s role in the MENA region, it moves on to detailed descriptions of each financing instrument, including their purposes, processes, and governing environmental and social policies. It also delves into how to identify high-risk projects, understand project categories, and navigate the World Bank’s online resources to find project-related information.
Moreover, the toolkit outlines the available mechanisms for lodging complaints about negative project impacts, providing information on how to engage with the Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM), the Grievance Redress Service (GRS), and the Inspection Panel. By leveraging these mechanisms, affected individuals and communities can seek redress and ensure their voices are heard.
This toolkit is an essential resource for anyone involved in monitoring and advocating for responsible development in the MENA region. It equips users with the knowledge and tools needed to scrutinize World Bank projects, safeguard environmental and social standards, and promote accountability.