http://www.bicusa.org/en/Institution.5.aspx The latest news on the World Bank (IBRD & IDA) from the Bank Information Center 10 http://www.infodev.org/images/infodev.gif http://www.bicusa.org/en/Institution.5.aspx As the World Bank prepares to launch two new climate investment funds at the upcoming G8 summit, and positions itself as the "climate bank," new statistics developed by the Bank Information Center show that the World Bank's private sector arm, the International Financial Corporation (IFC), increased its lending for fossil fuel projects by a staggering 165% in FY2008. Taken as a whole, the World Bank Group increased its fossil-fuel lending by 60% in the same period. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3840.aspx Thu, 03 Jul 2008 11:39:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3840.aspx July riots signal the importance of transparency and responsible revenue management for Mongolia’s political stability. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3837.aspx Wed, 02 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3837.aspx The "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3826.aspx Fri, 27 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3826.aspx On June 24, 2008, the Jubilee Act passed the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The bill must now be considered and passed by the full U.S. Senate before it can go to the President and be signed into law. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3831.aspx Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3831.aspx يثير موضوع دعم البنك الدولي لدراسات الجدوى بتكلفة تصل الى 15.5 مليون دولار تساؤلات حول التزام البنك بتطبيق سياسات الحماية المتعلقة ببرامجه حول هذا المشروع http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3829.aspx Tue, 24 Jun 2008 11:32:26 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3829.aspx The Bota Foundation, administered by the World Bank, held its first Board of Trustees meeting in June. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3824.aspx Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3824.aspx World Bank President Robert B. Zoellick praised Kazakhstan for its role in reviving the Aral Sea, on a recent visit to the region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3825.aspx Mon, 23 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3825.aspx World Bank involvement in the proposed Inga and Kafue dams has brought criticism over the continued reliance on hydro in a warming world, and intentions to power foreign mining companies. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3822.aspx Mon, 23 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3822.aspx As Newmont, the world's largest mining company prepares for gold mining operations in Ghana, civil society groups challenge the purported benefits for local communities. Meanwhile, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) has come under fire for the environmental and social legacies of its gold mining investments in Ghana and its plans proceed to begin the next phase of Newmont's controversial Ahafo gold project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3821.aspx Sat, 21 Jun 2008 14:45:24 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3821.aspx The World Bank's Country Director for Kenya, who was criticized over the Bank's portfolio in the country as well as a controversial leaked memo during the country's recent elections, will be the new Bank Director of Operations and Strategy for Africa. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3820.aspx Sat, 21 Jun 2008 14:36:10 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3820.aspx The workshop introduced BIC's work to Egyptian media and civil society organizations, and focused on the activities of the international financial institutions in the country. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3819.aspx Fri, 20 Jun 2008 16:55:12 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3819.aspx In a Statement issued June 17, the Ethnic Community Development Forum (ECDF) of Burma cautioned the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) against any engagement with Burma's military rulers in the post-Cyclone Nargis scenario given the human rights situation in the country. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3818.aspx Thu, 19 Jun 2008 13:33:10 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3818.aspx The World Bank’s support for the $15.5 million feasibility studies continues to raise questions about the Bank’s application of its operational safeguard policies on the project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3786.aspx Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3786.aspx The recent Palestine Investment Conference concluded with pledges amounting to $1.4 billion in private sector investment in the Palestinian Territories, including $75m from the International Finance Corporation (IFC). Meanwhile, the World Bank’s conditionalities on utility fees and eliminating public sector jobs raises doubts about the institution’s adherence to its poverty reduction mandate. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3805.aspx Sun, 15 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3805.aspx The "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3802.aspx Fri, 13 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3802.aspx The World Bank's Tiger Conservation Initiative aims to raise global awareness about the plight of the endangered tiger and to work with local and international communities to stave off its extinction. The initiative is unprecedented for an institution whose stated mission is to fight poverty in developing countries rather than conserve endangered species. But a day after the launch, India is reported for have refused the World Bank's "offer" for a loan for the inititiative. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3807.aspx Thu, 12 Jun 2008 09:53:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3807.aspx Kazakhstan has signed into law a 2006 agreement to transport oil through the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline, while making plans to connect its oil to the BTC route through additional domestic and trans-Caspian pipelines. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3804.aspx Tue, 10 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3804.aspx The "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3791.aspx Fri, 06 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3791.aspx Recent developments, decisions, and civil society activities related to activities of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in Russia. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3798.aspx Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3798.aspx Recent developments, decisions, and civil society activities related to activities of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in the Kyrgyz Republic. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3795.aspx Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3795.aspx Recent developments, decisions, and civil society activities related to activities of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in Kazakhstan. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3794.aspx Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3794.aspx Recent developments, decisions, and civil society activities related to activities of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in Azerbaijan. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3792.aspx Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3792.aspx Recent developments, decisions, and civil society activities related to activities of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in Mongolia. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3796.aspx Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3796.aspx Recent developments, decisions, and civil society activities related to activities of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in Georgia. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3797.aspx Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3797.aspx During the French environment minister's recent visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Congolese civil society organizations released a statement drawing attention to the alarming situation in the Congo forests and the destructive activities of logging companies. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3785.aspx Fri, 30 May 2008 13:31:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3785.aspx The "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3781.aspx Fri, 30 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3781.aspx The World Bank announced today that it has set up a financing facility in the order of $1.2 billion to assist with the global food crisis. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3784.aspx Thu, 29 May 2008 15:16:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3784.aspx This is a new feature from BIC! This "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3779.aspx Fri, 23 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3779.aspx This is a new feature from BIC! This "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3764.aspx Fri, 16 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3764.aspx Skyrocketing food prices have forced the international financial institutions (IFIs) to articulate responses to the situation. The World Bank has conjured a "New Deal for Global Food Policy" to pump agriculture-oriented loans and programs into Africa and to address emergency financing needs. The IMF has voiced concern over the likely macroeconomic shocks of the food crisis in low-income countries. But the Bretton Woods Institutions must wrestle with a legacy that helped set the stage for diminished food security in many low-income countries. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3763.aspx Fri, 09 May 2008 10:31:29 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3763.aspx This is a new feature from BIC! This "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3762.aspx Fri, 09 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3762.aspx Three and a half months after the resignation of Suzanne Rich-Folsom, the controversial head of the World Bank's Department of Institutional Integrity (INT), the Bank has appointed Leonard McCarthy as the new head of its internal anti-corruption unit. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3752.aspx Tue, 06 May 2008 14:29:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3752.aspx This is a new feature from BIC! This "Weekly Roundup" is a compliation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3749.aspx Fri, 02 May 2008 10:47:40 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3749.aspx In his blog, Jim Schultz of The Democracy Center writes about the World Bank's attempts to improve its image in Bolivia by rewriting its role in the country's history. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3737.aspx Mon, 21 Apr 2008 10:46:48 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3737.aspx Lea la edición especial de la Actualización de Bretton Woods, coproducida por Afrodad, Bank Information Center, Choike y Eurodad. Esta edición esta disponible también en ingles. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3733.aspx Tue, 15 Apr 2008 10:41:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3733.aspx The new Country Assistance Strategy for the Democratic Republic of Congo, which the Bank has kept secret, suggests a continued emphasis on the natural resource sectors as sources of growth going forward and predicts at least $1.4 billion in new lending over the next three years. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3729.aspx Wed, 09 Apr 2008 16:24:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3729.aspx Read the special Spring Meetings edition of the Bretton Woods Update, co-produced with Afrodad, Bank Information Center, Choike, and Eurodad. The issue is also available in Spanish. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3724.aspx Mon, 07 Apr 2008 20:18:31 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3724.aspx Jubilee USA Network heralded the passage by voice vote in the House Financial Services Committee of the Jubilee Act for Responsible Lending and Expanded Debt Cancellation (HR 2634). The legislation calls on the US Treasury Department to negotiate at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank for an agreement for debt cancellation for up to 24 additional poor countries that need cancellation to meet the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) but do not currently qualify for the current IMF/World Bank debt relief initiative. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3721.aspx Fri, 04 Apr 2008 11:59:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3721.aspx Wall Street Journal editorial targets corruption in World Bank projects in Kenya, spurring renewed complaints about the Bank’s alleged contribution to a climate of loose ethics and corruption in the Kenyan government. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3717.aspx Thu, 03 Apr 2008 15:34:30 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3717.aspx Updated April 10, 2008: The World Bank's Inspection Panel is recruiting qualified applicants to fill a vacancy in its three-member team. Regional balance considerations could likely mean selection of a candidate from the South East Asia region. The closing date for applications has been extended to April 30, 2008. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3716.aspx Thu, 03 Apr 2008 11:29:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3716.aspx The World Bank is considering financing a hydroelectric dam between Burundi and Tanzania that would boost mining production in East Africa. But in an area prone to drought, particularly with the onset of climate change, questions remain about the project's sustainability and whether it will be worth the projected $190 million cost. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3718.aspx Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3718.aspx Donors, led by the World Bank, still insist on linking aid for the Palestinian Authority to the removal of subsidies from basic services, in spite of a recent Bank study that highlights increasing poverty and unemployment rates in the West Bank and Gaza. The suggested cuts in the wage bill in the security, health and education sectors could further hinder Palestine's ability to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3706.aspx Tue, 25 Mar 2008 14:24:10 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3706.aspx While IFC meeting with government and private sector is expected to lower corporate taxes, World Bank and IMF conditions will double the General Sales Tax in 2009. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3703.aspx Thu, 13 Mar 2008 16:03:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3703.aspx Rising global food prices have led to outbreaks of civil unrest in West and Central Africa. While the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank plan their responses to the growing crisis, Cameroon, site of worst strife, relaxes IMF policies on wages and prices. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3702.aspx Thu, 13 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3702.aspx World Bank Group General Counsel Ana Palacio is resigning her position, effective April 15, further diminishing former World Bank president, Paul Wolfowitz's legacy. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3697.aspx Mon, 10 Mar 2008 14:21:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3697.aspx As a significant rebel threat to his government appears to recede, Chadian President Idriss Deby has clamped down on political opponents and bypassed controls established by an agreement with the World Bank to redirect oil revenues for military use. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3693.aspx Thu, 06 Mar 2008 11:14:58 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3693.aspx New threats and opportunities have pushed the World Bank toward a new form of engagement in the Middle East and North Africa region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3687.aspx Fri, 29 Feb 2008 17:20:52 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3687.aspx Read the preliminary assessment of the implementation of project level revenue transparency commitments for the extractive industry projects financed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3685.aspx Tue, 26 Feb 2008 14:08:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3685.aspx Trainings aim to inform Indonesian civil society about the basics of the multilateral development banks and hold the institutions accountable. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3683.aspx Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:12:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3683.aspx Size of debt to be repaid will depend on the size of the penalties for early repayment. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3674.aspx Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:03:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3674.aspx Robert Zoellick told Africa's leaders the World Bank wanted to expand its "efforts to help countries produce their own food, instead of relying on imports.” This would represent a complete reversal of Bank policy which has focused thus far on encouraging Africa to devote more land and resources to growing commodities, and to rely on international markets to purchase the food they were no longer growing. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3673.aspx Fri, 08 Feb 2008 09:42:30 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3673.aspx While the World Bank has expressed its support for the move, calling the new fiscal regime "more equitable," critics counter that the Bank was responsible for insisting on rock-bottom tax rates in 1998 that have deprived the government of much-needed revenue as copper prices soared. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3672.aspx Thu, 07 Feb 2008 13:22:07 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3672.aspx World Bank hopes leading academic's appointment will help strengthen ties with China. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3668.aspx Mon, 04 Feb 2008 16:50:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3668.aspx Addressing the African Union Summit on Thursday, January 31, 2008, World Bank President Zoellick committed to expanding the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3667.aspx Mon, 04 Feb 2008 15:11:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3667.aspx The World Bank President also spoke of the need to “speed up the process of clearing the arrears of countries that have fallen behind in payments to multilateral lenders.” http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3662.aspx Fri, 01 Feb 2008 10:09:09 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3662.aspx The Arab newspaper Azzaman reported last week that the Iraqi government plans to reduce its food rationing program "in line with the obligations it has made to the World Bank." http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3663.aspx Fri, 01 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3663.aspx The World Bank will be launching four new projects in Macedonia in 2008, for a total amount of $175 million. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3661.aspx Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:45:52 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3661.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3659.aspx Wed, 30 Jan 2008 14:07:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3659.aspx Following the resignation of Suzanne Rich-Folsom, the previous head of the World Bank's anti-corruption unit and the embarrassing revelations of extensive fraud in several of its health projects in India, the World Bank announced on January 23, 2008 that it would implement all the recommendations of the Volcker Panel Review. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3657.aspx Fri, 25 Jan 2008 12:00:07 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3657.aspx A UK tribunal ruled in favor of the government after finding that water services deteriorated following a controversial, non-competitive privatization process backed by the World Bank. A separate case brought by the company against Tanzania worth $20 million is being decided behind closed doors at a World Bank court. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3652.aspx Fri, 18 Jan 2008 10:50:47 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3652.aspx During a recent visit to China, Bank President Robert Zoellick appeared keen to assuage concerns that China’s massive loan packages to Africa could compromise recent efforts to reduce some African countries’ debt burdens. Zoellick also praised China for its decision to contribute for the first time to the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3650.aspx Fri, 18 Jan 2008 10:11:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3650.aspx A report issued by the Egyptian Central Auditing Organization accuses the Egyptian government of using misleading financial statistics. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3648.aspx Thu, 17 Jan 2008 15:47:48 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3648.aspx First of its kind loan would be invested in health, water, energy and irrigation projects. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3646.aspx Thu, 17 Jan 2008 09:54:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3646.aspx Construction of the dam proceeds despite an ongoing investigation into claims presented by civil society groups that the project violates environmental and social standards of both the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3651.aspx Thu, 17 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3651.aspx An Inspection Panel report on the World Bank’s safeguard policy violations in its Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) forest sector operations prompts discussion on new approach and greater role for Pygmies in decision-making about the future of the world’s second-largest rainforest. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3645.aspx Wed, 16 Jan 2008 16:43:34 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3645.aspx Resignation comes after internal review reveals Bank's ineffectiveness in addressing corruption in health projects in India. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3641.aspx Wed, 16 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3641.aspx Internal memo raises questions about the institution's political neutrality in Kenya. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3638.aspx Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3638.aspx On January 3, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) released a report by its Independent Evaluation Office (IEO) on the use of structural conditionality in IMF programs. The IEO has a record of often making sharp criticisms of IMF practice, though its recommendations are sometimes criticized for being too moderate in relation to the severity of its critique. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3636.aspx Fri, 04 Jan 2008 17:07:30 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3636.aspx Policy conditions attached to the $50 million grant include a reduction of the civil service, land reform, and lower corporate taxes. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3635.aspx Wed, 02 Jan 2008 13:55:47 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3635.aspx World Bank's Inspection Panel expected to submit findings of its investigation into claims made by local communities that the project violated the Bank's environmental and social policies. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3632.aspx Tue, 18 Dec 2007 12:11:22 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3632.aspx Favorable World Bank assessment of Palestinian economic reform program helps pave the way for major donor support. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3631.aspx Mon, 17 Dec 2007 18:17:30 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3631.aspx Ecuador's actions are part of a wider dissatisfaction among some Central and South American countries with international investment law and particularly its dispute settlement regime. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3629.aspx Mon, 17 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3629.aspx A high level delegation of indigenous, civil society and Parliamentarian leaders from Peru are in Washington, DC to lobby against the expected vote on public loans for the Peru LNG natural gas liquification plant. The delegation argues that by approving the project, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Ex-Im Bank and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), would breach their own social and environmental safeguards. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3627.aspx Thu, 13 Dec 2007 15:10:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3627.aspx The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the government of Mongolia and the World Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) is now available. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3626.aspx Wed, 12 Dec 2007 15:20:31 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3626.aspx Last week, the Financial Times published an article on the World Bank's errors in its forest operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and allegations of support for illegal logging in the country by the International Finance Corporation (IFC). Just two days later, the IFC announced it would sell its stake in Olam International Ltd., the Singaporean commodity trading company accused of "environmental malpractice" in the world's second largest rainforest. As those gathered in Bali for the United Nations conference on climate change discuss the importance of forests to the future health of the planet, the Bank's missteps in Congo deserve a closer look. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3619.aspx Tue, 11 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3619.aspx Environmental groups gathered in Bali for the United Nations convention on climate change warn that the World Bank's market-oriented Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF), launched today, will have negative social and environmental impacts. Citing the Bank's poor track record in the forest sector and ongoing support for fossil fuels, the groups are demanding that forests be kept out of the carbon market and that governments increase their funding for other approaches to forest protection and climate change mitigation. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3620.aspx Tue, 11 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3620.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3612.aspx Mon, 10 Dec 2007 09:43:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3612.aspx The World Bank approved the $50 million grant yesterday without disclosing relevant project documents. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3609.aspx Fri, 07 Dec 2007 13:47:58 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3609.aspx A prominent New York Times article describes how Malawi went from food aid recipient to regional food provider in just two years after re-introducing fertilizer subsidies for its low-income farmers. The move contravened years of policy guidance from the World Bank and IMF, which warn against such distortions of the “free market.” But donors find it hard to argue with success, especially because in violating what its wealthy benefactors in Europe and North America say, Malawi is doing precisely as they do. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3601.aspx Thu, 06 Dec 2007 10:46:11 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3601.aspx As the World Bank prepares to launch the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF) -- its flagship initiative to address deforestation-related greenhouse gas emissions -- at the United Nations climate change conference in Bali, Indonesia, we offer some background on the FCPC and outline the concerns surrounding this controversial new mechanism. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3593.aspx Tue, 04 Dec 2007 10:17:28 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3593.aspx The workshop introduced BIC's work to Yemeni media and civil society organizations, and focused on the activities of the international financial institutions in the country. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3591.aspx Tue, 04 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3591.aspx Working session aims to update the Indonesian civil society organizations and movements on the old and new trends in the governance and operations of the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) as they relate to Indonesia. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3594.aspx Tue, 04 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3594.aspx The World Bank touted it's meeting with a delegation of Pygmies from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) during the Bank's Annual Meetings in October. But as Simon Counsell of Rainforest Foundation UK points out, the Bank has consistently ignored the findings of the quasi-independent Inspecition Panel and violated its own "safeguard policies." http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3585.aspx Tue, 27 Nov 2007 19:51:55 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3585.aspx In 2006, the World Bank’s Inspection Panel (IP) issued its investigation report for the Bank-funded Pakistan National Drainage Program (NDP). The inspection requesters strongly feel the World Bank Board should ask the Inspection Panel to monitor progress of Management's Action Plan so as to provide the Board with an independent assessment of progress or lack thereof. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3584.aspx Wed, 21 Nov 2007 11:11:22 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3584.aspx A coalition of U.S. development and environmental groups has released a joint platform containing needed World Bank reforms, ahead of the 15th replenishment of the International Development Association (IDA) negotiations in Dublin, Ireland. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3579.aspx Mon, 19 Nov 2007 16:48:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3579.aspx According to Bloomberg, the plant would require the use of up to two-thirds of the dam's output. The World Bank previously indicated that it may be willing to support the expansion of the dam. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3574.aspx Wed, 14 Nov 2007 17:03:59 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3574.aspx Guilt for the environmental catastrophe in the Strait of Kerch lies with the authorities in Russia and Ukraine, as well as with the companies transporting dangerous cargo http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3572.aspx Mon, 12 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3572.aspx A coalition of non-governmental organisations from Europe, North America, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) launched an international appeal today demanding the publication of the final report of the ministerial commission on the review of mining contracts without delay. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3563.aspx Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:31:15 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3563.aspx A people's tribunal against the World Bank, International Monetary Fund and the Asian Development Bank was announced in Dhaka, Bangladesh yesterday, hours before World Bank President, Robert Zoellick's arrival in the country. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3559.aspx Mon, 05 Nov 2007 16:34:52 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3559.aspx As the World Bank President, Robert Zoellick, embarks on his first official visit to South Asia, non-governmental organizations in Pakistan urge the Bank to cease funding for large infrastructure projects. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3555.aspx Thu, 01 Nov 2007 10:42:12 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3555.aspx Recent developments, decisions, and civil society activities related to activities of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in Mongolia. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3552.aspx Thu, 01 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3552.aspx Robert Zoellick’s first World Bank annual meeting passed with little fanfare or flak – a marked contrast to the boisterous semi-annual meeting in April, when the pressure on his predecessor, Paul Wolfowitz, to resign reached a fever pitch. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3549.aspx Tue, 30 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3549.aspx As World Bank President Robert Zoellick works to secure IDA funds, an influential U.S. Democratic senator calls for changes at the institution. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3551.aspx Mon, 29 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3551.aspx As the World Bank launches its latest flagship World Development Report, this year on "Agriculture for Development," the Independent Evaluation Group's report clearly acknowledges that the Bank's engagement with the most important sector in its highest-priority region has largely been a failure. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3544.aspx Fri, 19 Oct 2007 15:15:38 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3544.aspx Continued macro-economic prosperity in Latin America furthers decline in World Bank relevance in the region as worries grow about competition with Bank of the South. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3543.aspx Thu, 18 Oct 2007 15:15:15 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3543.aspx Read the latest information on World Bank and civil society events organized around the upcoming IMF/World Bank Annual Meetings and how to get involved. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3484.aspx Thu, 18 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3484.aspx Questions remain as to whether the IFC will use its role as a major IDA donor to deflect criticism of its own investments. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3545.aspx Thu, 18 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3545.aspx Critics claim that Aid for Trade schemes could aggrevate rather than alleviate poverty, particularly in Africa. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3546.aspx Wed, 17 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3546.aspx This is the first of a series of periodic electronic updates on World Bank projects in South Asia, from BIC's South Asia office. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3541.aspx Mon, 15 Oct 2007 00:02:35 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3541.aspx On October 15th, a public hearing on the World Bank will take place in The Hague. The hearing aims to raise the debate on the legitimacy of the World Bank and influence the aid distribution process. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3529.aspx Tue, 09 Oct 2007 16:10:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3529.aspx The World Bank will focus on labor-intensive export to boost employment in the Arab World. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3526.aspx Tue, 09 Oct 2007 12:54:28 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3526.aspx World Bank President Robert Zoellick has named former Nigerian Finance Minister, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, as a new managing director of the Bank, effective December 1, 2007. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3522.aspx Fri, 05 Oct 2007 10:50:47 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3522.aspx Whistleblowers have found evidence of large scale fraud in Armenia, but the World Bank's Institutional Integrity Department (INT) has deemed the case to be of only "medium priority," and is holding off inquiries into the allegations. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3517.aspx Mon, 01 Oct 2007 13:15:22 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3517.aspx Egypt tops list of reformers in World Bank's 2008 "Doing Business" report. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3515.aspx Thu, 27 Sep 2007 14:42:36 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3515.aspx In its preliminary findings, the first ever Independent People’s Tribunal on the World Bank in India found that the Bank had an undue and disturbingly negative influence in shaping India’s national policies disproportionate to its contribution, financial or otherwise. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3514.aspx Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:22:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3514.aspx Civil society in the Middle East demands that the Bank give full consideration to viable alternatives to the costly project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3513.aspx Wed, 26 Sep 2007 13:18:34 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3513.aspx The World Bank has approved plans to proceed with the development of the controversial Forest Carbon Partnership Facility, although many critical issues remain unanswered. Civil society groups are concerned that the initiative may end up being profitable for governments, companies and investors without any real reductions in carbon emissions, true protection of forest resources, or equitable benefits for the poor. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3510.aspx Tue, 25 Sep 2007 11:19:42 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3510.aspx Recent developments, decisions, and civil society activities related to activities of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in Kazakhstan. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3500.aspx Mon, 24 Sep 2007 10:24:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3500.aspx Recent developments, decisions, and civil society activities related to activities of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in Azerbaijan. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3499.aspx Mon, 24 Sep 2007 09:57:10 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3499.aspx World Bank President faces an uphill battle to raise money from donors to support the Bank’s work in poor countries. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3503.aspx Mon, 24 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3503.aspx The four-day Independent People's Tribunal on the World Bank, the first of its kind in India, begins today. The Tribunal is an opportunity for impacted commununities and concerned groups to discuss how the World Bank has influenced their lives. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3496.aspx Fri, 21 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3496.aspx On September 13th, after over 20 years of negotiations, the United Nations General Assembly finally adopted the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The international declaration sets a higher standard for international financial institutions (IFIs) to ensure safeguards and strengthen their policies on indigenous peoples. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3495.aspx Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:34:28 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3495.aspx In his first high-level appointment since taking office, World Bank President, Robert Zoellick has named Caroline Anstey as his new Chief of Staff. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3497.aspx Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3497.aspx In 2007, IFC financing in the Middle East and North Africa region exceeded lending from IDA and IBRD combined. As the Bank Group heralds high growth in MENA and pumps money to the private sector, equity and employment challenges loom large. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3493.aspx Wed, 19 Sep 2007 18:21:58 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3493.aspx A recent World Bank report on Eastern and Central Asia "proposes structural reforms in areas where expenditure pressures are acute and suggests how to create fiscal space in other areas critical for growth." http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3490.aspx Fri, 14 Sep 2007 14:56:55 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3490.aspx A review of the World Bank's Department of Institutional Integrity and its Governance and Anti-corruption strategy finds that weak management, employee resistance and internal distrust is contributing to the Bank's ineffectiveness in combating corruption in its operations. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3488.aspx Fri, 14 Sep 2007 01:45:59 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3488.aspx The new approach aims to reinvigorate the World Bank with high quality products and financial services. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3482.aspx Fri, 07 Sep 2007 11:59:43 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3482.aspx The Bank's new "Lighting Africa" program, which was launched this week, seeks to catalyze business interest in developing innovative ways to bring light to millions of Africans who are not connected to the electricity grid. While the attention to off-grid and non-fossil fuel based electricity supply in Africa is welcome, it remains questionable whether the private sector can meet the Bank's goal of delivering affordable lighting to 250 million people on the continent by 2030. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3481.aspx Thu, 06 Sep 2007 19:38:06 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3481.aspx In a report released today, the Government Accountabilty Project finds that the World Bank's Department of Institutional Integrity is undermined by a conflict of interest at its top ranks and serious, long-term problems. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3480.aspx Thu, 06 Sep 2007 17:10:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3480.aspx While the World Bank pumps more money to sub-Saharan Africa, much of it to finance large-scale infrastructure projects, poverty levels across the continent continue to rise. How effective is the Bank's aid to Africa? http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3479.aspx Thu, 06 Sep 2007 16:51:19 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3479.aspx The Wall Street Journal has leaked a 2005 report by the World Bank's Department of Institutional Integrity (INT) that documents consistent fraud and corruption under Bank-financed health care projects in India. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3478.aspx Thu, 06 Sep 2007 13:25:27 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3478.aspx The World Bank's Inspection Panel has named Roberto Lenton as its newest member. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3475.aspx Wed, 05 Sep 2007 11:31:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3475.aspx Although construction of the controversial hydropower project in Uganda began last week, debate continues over the dam's design, cost and impacts. A recent article in the Baltimore Sun provides details. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3473.aspx Mon, 27 Aug 2007 09:59:15 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3473.aspx The Centre on Housing Rights and Evictions (COHRE) filed a request for inspection of the World Bank's Kwabenya landfill project in Accra, the capital of Ghana. They argued that the project would displace a significant portion of the Agyemankata community and cause health problems for residents, who were not adequately consulted. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3472.aspx Thu, 23 Aug 2007 17:01:33 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3472.aspx Last week, National Public Radio's Morning Edition broadcast a story on the debate surrounding the World Bank-financed Bujagali dam in Uganda. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3471.aspx Thu, 23 Aug 2007 16:00:20 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3471.aspx A recent article by the World Bank applauds governments in MENA for increasing investment in environmental protection. While the World Bank is encouraging MENA countries to decrease their carbon emissions, it continues to finance extractive industry projects in the region. This apparent contradiction is just one of several reasons to take a closer look at the Bank's recent coverage of the 'greening' of MENA. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3470.aspx Thu, 23 Aug 2007 14:19:20 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3470.aspx Journalists confirmed that former World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz, personally intervened in removing the words "climate change" from Bank progress reports, and that it may be years before the World Bank considers greenhouse gas emissions in its projects. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3468.aspx Wed, 22 Aug 2007 17:29:46 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3468.aspx During his recent visit to Cambodia, new World Bank President, Robert Zoellick, mentioned corruption reform in the county only in passing. Global Witness called on Zoellick to do more to tackle corruption in Cambodia. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3467.aspx Wed, 22 Aug 2007 17:01:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3467.aspx The Independent Evaluation Group (IEG) of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), found that 41% of the IFC projects studied had low development ratings. IFC performed particularly poorly in Africa and Asia, where only half of its projects had positive development outcomes. In Africa, the quality of IFC work was particularly poor, rated as “high” in only 45% of projects, as compared to 68% in other regions. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3466.aspx Wed, 22 Aug 2007 15:21:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3466.aspx Local CSO observers argue that instead of addressing the root causes of the economic and social challenges facing Lebanon, the World Bank is promoting a "one-size-fits-all" formula of privatization and liberalization in various sectors. To deal with the adverse impacts of these reforms, the Bank is proposing limited social safety net programs. But groups like the Arab NGOs Network for Development say what the country needs is a comprehensive strategy for economic and social development including policitical and administrative reforms. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3464.aspx Wed, 22 Aug 2007 12:41:19 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3464.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3463.aspx Tue, 21 Aug 2007 18:27:08 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3463.aspx China's "no-strings-attached" investments in Africa appear to many a welcome alternative to the conditional loans offered by the World Bank and IMF. But what consequences will China's growing involvement on the continent have for Africans? http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3460.aspx Thu, 16 Aug 2007 14:21:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3460.aspx New World Bank President Robert Zoellick recently returned to Washington, DC following a Pacific tour. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3456.aspx Wed, 08 Aug 2007 12:00:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3456.aspx The Egyptian government is facing criticism from members of its parliament over plans to sell off the country’s publicly owned banks. The plan to privatize several national banks within the framework of an $8.7 billion financial sector reform program has the backing of the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, the African Development Bank and US Agency for International Development. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3455.aspx Wed, 01 Aug 2007 22:39:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3455.aspx The Bank's $250 million Forest Carbon Partnership Facility will offer some nations carbon credits in exchange for preserving their forests. The fund is anticipated to launch in December. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3454.aspx Wed, 01 Aug 2007 15:43:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3454.aspx A new World Bank report warns reproductive health services are being overlooked in the fight against poverty. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3451.aspx Thu, 26 Jul 2007 15:28:45 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3451.aspx Meanwhile, divisions on the Bank's Board of Directors over the report's findings could present Zoellick with his first test of leadership. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3449.aspx Sat, 21 Jul 2007 11:38:20 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3449.aspx The new World Bank President spoke of middle income countries, good governance and the need to diversify services at a town hall meeting earlier this month. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3447.aspx Fri, 20 Jul 2007 15:44:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3447.aspx Africa, middle-income countries and cross-border problems are but some of the issues needing Robert Zoellick's attention. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3444.aspx Fri, 20 Jul 2007 00:30:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3444.aspx World Bank-backed project to receive Inspection Panel visit. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3437.aspx Fri, 13 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3437.aspx While the specific role and activities of the new Latin American regional development bank are still being debated, plans are moving forward to formalize an agreement between members that would create an alternative to the World Bank and IMF. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3433.aspx Mon, 09 Jul 2007 13:45:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3433.aspx Critics argue that the Bank and many of its borrowers are ill-equipped to effectively utilize the substantial increase in aid requested on Africa's behalf. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3426.aspx Fri, 06 Jul 2007 15:34:09 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3426.aspx The World Bank allegedly removed inflammatory findings on pollution-related deaths from a report under pressure from the Chinese government. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3424.aspx Thu, 05 Jul 2007 16:43:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3424.aspx Robert Zoellick spoke to hundreds of World Bank employees on his first day at the job Monday. The Economic Times reported he was greeted by applause and high hopes from a staff demoralized by recent scandal. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3423.aspx Thu, 05 Jul 2007 12:25:42 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3423.aspx Civil society groups are calling for candidates with clear commitments to accountability and deep understanding of civil society and grassroots impacts of World Bank investments. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3421.aspx Tue, 03 Jul 2007 17:28:28 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3421.aspx The issues discussed at the second replenishment meeting in Maputo included the role of IDA in the global aid architecture and IDA's role in fragile states. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3420.aspx Tue, 03 Jul 2007 17:09:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3420.aspx The Executive Directors of the World Bank unanimously selected Robert B. Zoellick to succeed Mr. Wolfowitz, effective July 1, 2007, as the 11th President of the Bank for a five-year term. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3414.aspx Mon, 25 Jun 2007 15:02:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3414.aspx Zoellick met with the 24-member Board on June 20 in a four hour, informal meeting. The discussion will continue on Monday June 25. The Board is expected to formally appoint Zoellick by the end of the month. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3412.aspx Fri, 22 Jun 2007 12:25:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3412.aspx In his testimony before the U.S. House Committee on Financial Services earlier this week, Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson discussed the need to upgrade global governance structures and operations. He also touched on U.S. and global economic developments, strategic economic dialogue with China, promoting open trade and investment, foreign direct investment, helping small businesses in Latin America and strengthening the international framework against illicit finance. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3411.aspx Thu, 21 Jun 2007 12:20:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3411.aspx They will discuss "key issues of interest to the World Bank Group, including the challenges of development...governance and leadership as well as future strategic directions". The Board is expected to confirm Zoellick on June 30. Read the most recent statement from the Executive Directors on the process. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3408.aspx Wed, 20 Jun 2007 11:51:33 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3408.aspx The only official nominee for the post of World Bank President, Robert Zoellick, recently concluded a two week tour of Africa, Europe and Latin America and commented on what it will take to steer the institution back on track. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3405.aspx Tue, 19 Jun 2007 10:38:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3405.aspx Despite all the public outcry about the flaws in the World Bank's governance and the need for an open, democratic, and merit-based process for the selection of the next World Bank President, NOT A SINGLE COUNTRY proposed an alternate candidate to the US's pick for the job, allowing the US to continue its grip on the leadership of the institution. The Board is expected to confirm the Bush administration's choice for the job - Robert Zoellick - by the end of June... http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3400.aspx Mon, 18 Jun 2007 10:02:24 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3400.aspx The World Bank is preparing to announce a new $250 million fund aimed at using carbon finance to reduce emissions from deforestation. According to recent news reports, world leaders have encouraged the Bank to move forward with plans to create a Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF), which would leverage private investor money and donor contributions to help countries develop strategies for avoiding forest degradation and secure payment for forest-related emissions reduction, through the creation of tradable carbon credits. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3398.aspx Thu, 14 Jun 2007 22:12:42 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3398.aspx Uncontested World Bank presidential nominee makes no major break from Wolfowitz's agenda during Africa tour. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3397.aspx Thu, 14 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3397.aspx While NGOs express disappointment at the G8’s failure to take any bold steps on climate change during the recent summit in Heligendamm, Germany, the World Bank has praised the meeting outcomes and applauded the emphasis on market mechanisms to combat climate change. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3394.aspx Tue, 12 Jun 2007 12:01:33 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3394.aspx Reactions to the United States' nomination of the former US Trade Representative for the next World Bank President... http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3392.aspx Fri, 08 Jun 2007 10:04:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3392.aspx Robert Zoellick will travel to Africa, Europe and Latin America in an effort to "listen and learn". http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3390.aspx Thu, 07 Jun 2007 11:09:23 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3390.aspx Collaboration to focus on large infrastructure; move seen as attempt by World Bank to avoid growing competition with Chinese counterpart. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3386.aspx Mon, 04 Jun 2007 10:56:40 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3386.aspx Critics counter that carbon market amounts to "a carbon accounting loophole for industrialized countries, instead of a tool for climate protection." http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3388.aspx Fri, 01 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3388.aspx The White House’s announcement that it will nominate former US Trade Representative Robert Zoellick to be the next World Bank President, and the widespread assumption that the choice is a fait accompli, serve as a reminder that the lessons of the Wolfowitz scandal have yet to be learned. Read BIC's May 31 Press Release on the Zoellick nomination. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3382.aspx Thu, 31 May 2007 15:26:23 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3382.aspx In spite of international calls for an open, merit-based process for choosing Paul Wolfowitz's successor, President Bush is expected to name Zoellick later this afternoon. His nomination must still be approved by the Bank's Board of Executive Directors. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3381.aspx Wed, 30 May 2007 11:24:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3381.aspx Representatives Frank, Obey, Rangel and Lantos furthermore note that the best candidate for the job need not be American. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3379.aspx Tue, 29 May 2007 10:30:35 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3379.aspx Demands join a chorus of voices from civil society and beyond expressing concerns about the antiquated system through which the United States effectively appoints the President. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3376.aspx Tue, 29 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3376.aspx A final decision may be announced this week. Robert Zoellick, former US Trade Representative and Deputy Secretary of State, is rumored to be the frontrunner. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3330.aspx Tue, 29 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3330.aspx Civil society fears that Bank is cutting corners in safeguards review in rush to approve loans, posing potentially serious risks to affected communities and the environment. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3387.aspx Tue, 29 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3387.aspx Following World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz's resignation, the Staff Association said, "we are shocked by the statement from the Board today which represents a full reversal of their own findings". The SA is asking that Wolfowitz be placed on administrative leave, an acting-President be appointed and staff are protected against any retaliation while ensuring Wolfowitz "prevented from making any decisions affecting the work of the Bank or its staff". http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3358.aspx Fri, 18 May 2007 11:07:58 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3358.aspx PRESS RELEASE: World Bank housecleaning has only just begun. Wolfowitz's resignation is the first step to broader governance overhauls at the institution. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3357.aspx Thu, 17 May 2007 18:21:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3357.aspx The Wolfowitz scandal should serve as a sobering wake-up call to the World Bank on the need for meaningful governance reforms. Its archaic 1940s convention of allowing the US to name the Bank’s leader undermines the institution’s legitimacy as well as the accountability of the Bank’s president. The Bank does not need to look very far for reform proposals - including its own 2001 proposals for an open, competitive selection process that were summarily ignored. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3355.aspx Thu, 17 May 2007 13:09:20 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3355.aspx Although a decision on the fate of Paul Wolfowitz was expected this afternoon, the Board of Directors has adjourned discussions until Thursday. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3353.aspx Wed, 16 May 2007 13:15:34 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3353.aspx World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz responded to the Board of Directors' Ad Hoc Committee's recent report on the President's alleged improprieties. At a Board meeting on Monday evening, Wolfowitz stated: "It is quite apparent that this matter has ceased to have much to do with the case itself--and everything to do with issues about my management style and my policy choices." http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3351.aspx Wed, 16 May 2007 12:12:26 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3351.aspx Although Bush administration officials came to the President's defense in recent days, the White House has recently stated that "all options are on the table" http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3347.aspx Tue, 15 May 2007 15:25:33 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3347.aspx Read the letter to World Bank and IMF executive directors, signed by over 165 individuals http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3344.aspx Tue, 15 May 2007 12:43:34 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3344.aspx The committee has been investigating whether World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz inappropriately arranged for salary raises and promotions for his former girlfriend, Shaha Ali Riza. Also: links to a new letter from 37 World Bank Country Directors calling for quick resolution of the crisis. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3335.aspx Mon, 14 May 2007 23:18:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3335.aspx African civil society rejects the idea of Wolfowitz as Africa's friend, arguing that the Bank continues to undermine development on the continent. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3331.aspx Mon, 14 May 2007 10:35:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3331.aspx The President will have until Friday May 11 to comment. The Board of Executive Directors will meet with Wolfowitz on Tuesday May 15, after which they will reach a decision. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3329.aspx Thu, 10 May 2007 12:25:33 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3329.aspx Opaque, unilateral control over leadership selection highlights major flaws in the governance of the institution. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3327.aspx Tue, 08 May 2007 16:32:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3327.aspx The New York Times reports that European governments may allow the US to continue to choose the leader of the institution in exchange for Wolfowitz's resignation. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3322.aspx Tue, 08 May 2007 12:17:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3322.aspx Kellems was a key member of Wolfowitz's close cadre of advisors, and thus one of the sources of tensions with World Bank staff. He also served as Director of Strategy in External Affairs. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3309.aspx Mon, 07 May 2007 11:02:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3309.aspx An overview of the back and forth between Paul Wolfowitz, Former World Bank Managing Director Shengman Zhang, Former World Bank General Counsel Roberto Dañino, Former World Bank Ethics Committee Head Ad Melkert, and some civil society critics. The Rashomonian drama continues... http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3302.aspx Wed, 02 May 2007 18:03:47 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3302.aspx Embattled World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz defended himself against allegations that he secured an improper salary raise for his girlfriend at a meeting with the Board committee investigating the situation on Monday morning. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3296.aspx Tue, 01 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3296.aspx Quotes from World Bank's shareholding country representatives, US Government, and civil society on the Wolfowitz affair. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3255.aspx Sun, 29 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3255.aspx With all eyes on Wolfowitz, few are looking deeper at the true scandal about the World Bank – that the governance of the world’s leading development agency is shrouded in secrecy and fundamentally undemocratic. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3294.aspx Fri, 27 Apr 2007 16:50:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3294.aspx Bank approves $360 million financing package for dam on Victoria Nile despite concerns about climate change, environmental impacts and cost. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3291.aspx Fri, 27 Apr 2007 12:20:12 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3291.aspx The team that oversees the World Bank's recently-approved Governance and Anticorruption Strategy sent a letter on Thursday expressing concern about the current Bank leadership. "We call upon the Board of Executive Directors and the President to take clear and decisive actions to resolve this crisis quickly." they wrote. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3290.aspx Fri, 27 Apr 2007 08:56:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3290.aspx The World Bank produced a progress report on its Africa Action Plan in advance of the Spring Meetings in Washington, DC earlier this month. How has the Bank measured up to its commitments, and what should Africa expect moving forward? http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3287.aspx Fri, 27 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3287.aspx Global sign-on letter regarding the current scandal at the Bank demands not only Wolfowitz’s resignation but fundamental reforms in the governance of the institution itself. Please provide an organizational sign-on if you agree with the demands and pass on to others who may also be interested. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3289.aspx Fri, 27 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3289.aspx World Bank Managing Director, Juan Jose Daboub, apparently tried to delete the words "climate change" from the institution's main environmental strategy paper, reports the Financial Times. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3286.aspx Thu, 26 Apr 2007 15:01:55 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3286.aspx Some of the latest news and musings about embattled World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3282.aspx Thu, 26 Apr 2007 00:01:24 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3282.aspx In a press release following yesterday's decision, NGOs accuse the Bank of ignoring inconvenient truths about climate change, hydrology and fisheries. They warn the project may threaten Lake Victoria and leave the majority of Ugandans in the dark. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3292.aspx Thu, 26 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3292.aspx In a letter to the Financial Times, over 40 former senior managers call Wolfowitz's resignation a "regrettable but essential step". http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3279.aspx Sun, 22 Apr 2007 21:18:23 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3279.aspx Some of the interesting press and commentaries circulating about embattled World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz today. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3278.aspx Fri, 20 Apr 2007 16:41:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3278.aspx A number of names have emerged as possible candidates to take over the reins of World Bank President if Wolfowitz is removed from his post. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3277.aspx Fri, 20 Apr 2007 11:09:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3277.aspx After long deliberations yesterday the World Bank's Board of Directors issued a statement saying that they have asked the Board's Committee on Governance and Administrative Matters (COGAM) to make the final recommendations "on issues of internal governance". http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3274.aspx Thu, 19 Apr 2007 11:39:47 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3274.aspx The www.worldbankpresident.org blog reviews the various camps concerned with the recent allegations surrounding World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3273.aspx Thu, 19 Apr 2007 09:52:18 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3273.aspx The World Bank Group's pledge to reduce greenhouse gases rings hollow as the organization increases assistance for the development of fossil fuels. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3272.aspx Wed, 18 Apr 2007 16:44:10 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3272.aspx Applications are being accepted for the next member of the Inspection Panel. Candidates should have a clear commitment to accountability and a deep understanding of civil society and grassroots impacts of World Bank investments. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3268.aspx Tue, 17 Apr 2007 15:07:52 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3268.aspx The blog www.worldbankpresident.org posts a handy summary of ten allegations circulating about World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3266.aspx Tue, 17 Apr 2007 09:49:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3266.aspx Some of the interesting press and commentaries circulating about embattled World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz today. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3265.aspx Mon, 16 Apr 2007 17:34:34 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3265.aspx Some of the recent comments and happenings related to the Paul Wolfowitz affair http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3257.aspx Mon, 16 Apr 2007 00:08:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3257.aspx Report highlights disrepancies between conclusions of the World Bank and the official project monitors. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3270.aspx Mon, 16 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3270.aspx Summaries of some recent press and civil society commentaries on embattled World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3256.aspx Sun, 15 Apr 2007 00:50:36 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3256.aspx Check out www.worldbankpresident.org! http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3254.aspx Sat, 14 Apr 2007 14:46:24 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3254.aspx Rumor is that the World Bank President will step down this evening. While this would be a small victory, it is only one step towards remedying the fundamental governance flaws within the institution. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3253.aspx Fri, 13 Apr 2007 15:17:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3253.aspx Danny Glover joined civil society representatives and activists at a press conference just blocks from the World bank on Friday afternoon, lending his voice to the growing calls for change at the institution. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3252.aspx Fri, 13 Apr 2007 14:54:24 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3252.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3251.aspx Fri, 13 Apr 2007 11:07:46 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3251.aspx Civil society remains concerned about limited public participation and energy planning, risks to Chad-Cameroon pipeline and forest reserves, and expectations that the dam would serve industrial interests. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3264.aspx Fri, 13 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3264.aspx The chair of the World Bank Staff Association, Alison Cave, said that Paul Wolfowitz "must acknowledge that his conduct has compromised the integrity and effectiveness of the World Bank Group and has destroyed the staff's trust in his leadership. He must act honorably and resign." http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3248.aspx Thu, 12 Apr 2007 14:08:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3248.aspx Ugandan groups highlight risks of project to hydrology of Lake Victoria, sustainability of the energy production, lack of comprehensive needs and options assessment, anticipated impacts on local communities http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3246.aspx Thu, 12 Apr 2007 11:29:46 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3246.aspx Report entitled "Carving up the Congo" reveals that the world's second largest rainforest is under threat. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3243.aspx Wed, 11 Apr 2007 10:44:04 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3243.aspx Apparently yes, if you’re Paul Wolfowitz. The embattled World Bank President has come under new fire for the inappropriate salary adjustments his girlfriend Shaha Ali Riza received shortly after his assuming leadership of the institution in 2006. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3227.aspx Tue, 10 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3227.aspx President Paul Wolfowitz called on Francois Bour-guignon, the Bank's chief economist, to develop a new strategy for World Bank aid effectiveness. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3233.aspx Mon, 09 Apr 2007 11:10:24 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3233.aspx China, the World Bank's second biggest borrower, has suggested that Wolfowitz's anti-corruption drive might be overstepping its boundaries and that it might begin turning down loans according to an article by investigative journalist, Richard Behar. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3228.aspx Thu, 29 Mar 2007 13:35:54 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3228.aspx Eva Joly encourages Zambian parliamentarians to demand greater revenues so that the country could benefit from its lucrative copper industry http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3396.aspx Thu, 29 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3396.aspx By Aldo Caliari and Paul Martin http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3224.aspx Tue, 27 Mar 2007 15:03:43 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3224.aspx President Wolfowitz announced that all 24 members of the Board of Directors at the World Bank approved the new GAC strategy set to rid corrupt and fradulent practices from its lending portfolio. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3223.aspx Fri, 23 Mar 2007 17:11:49 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3223.aspx Reuters reports that Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili, is expected to become the next Vice President for Africa at the World Bank. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3219.aspx Mon, 19 Mar 2007 16:37:06 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3219.aspx NGO reports dramatic drop in World Bank lending for Africa during current fiscal year, predicts decline in quality of loans during final quarter if the Bank attempts to meet its commitments. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3216.aspx Fri, 16 Mar 2007 12:11:17 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3216.aspx Testimonies were presented by nominees Margrethe Lundsager, Eli Whitney Debevoise II and Curtis S. Chin to the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations and statements were followed by a question and answer period. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3212.aspx Wed, 14 Mar 2007 11:47:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3212.aspx Reports that a World Bank staffer was shot at an Iraqi checkpoint surfaced in late February. The Bank apparently suppressed the news for several days, presumably in an effort to quell concerns about Bank President Paul Wolfowitz’s recent push to re-open a World Bank office in Baghdad. What should the Bank be doing in Iraq? Following is an overview of current Bank involvement in the country, and some reasons why you should be concerned. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3210.aspx Tue, 13 Mar 2007 15:34:08 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3210.aspx A coalition of NGOs launched an appeal to the Congolese government, the World Bank and other international partners to "renegotiate, revoke or cancel" disadvantageous mining contracts made during the war and under the transitional government, in order to ensure that the Congolese people derive a "fair share" from the exploitation of the country's natural resources. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3209.aspx Tue, 13 Mar 2007 15:14:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3209.aspx Over 60 NGOs from 16 European countries are lobbying European governments to demand that the World Bank stop policy conditionality and phase out fossil fuel projects. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3200.aspx Wed, 07 Mar 2007 16:44:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3200.aspx Visit signals heightened World Bank interest in the country following the inauguration of a new government, as well as in the wake of controversy around the forest and mining sectors. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3197.aspx Wed, 07 Mar 2007 15:30:21 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3197.aspx A World Bank staffer was shot in the shoulder at a security check point in Baghdad last week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3192.aspx Fri, 02 Mar 2007 10:25:47 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3192.aspx The German company Lahmeyer, found guilty of bribery while involved in the World Bank's Lesotho Highlands Water Project, has been placed on a list of firms that are ineligible of working with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) following the EBRD's examination of World Bank reports. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3183.aspx Mon, 26 Feb 2007 18:40:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3183.aspx At a two-day “experience-sharing meeting” on the extractive industries (EI) in Africa last week in Tunis, the banks agreed to intensify their collaboration on EI work and support for the implementation of the EITI by resource-rich countries in Africa. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3181.aspx Mon, 26 Feb 2007 11:01:33 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3181.aspx The World Bank's Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) has posted draft policies for public comment until April 27, 2007. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3175.aspx Fri, 23 Feb 2007 13:30:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3175.aspx Rumor is that Paul Wolfowitz is currently negotiating a contract with a new resident Iraq Country Director, confirming fears that the President is using his position to advance US geopolitical interests, and aggravating an already tense standoff with the Bank Board. Read the Government Accountability Project's recent press release exposing these new developments... http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3173.aspx Thu, 22 Feb 2007 10:20:30 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3173.aspx The Department plays a critical role in rooting out fraud and corruption within the World Bank - a focus many claim is underplayed in the institution's development of its Governance and Anti-Corruption Strategy. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3169.aspx Tue, 20 Feb 2007 14:26:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3169.aspx Read the latest information on World Bank and civil society events organized around the upcoming IMF/World Bank Annual Meetings and how to get involved. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3168.aspx Tue, 20 Feb 2007 13:34:21 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3168.aspx Representatives of donor countries, also known as IDA Deputies, met in Paris in early March to negotiate the amount of funding they will contribute to IDA's 15th replenishment. Find out more about the how the process works and what to expect. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3167.aspx Tue, 20 Feb 2007 12:59:36 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3167.aspx The European Network on Debt and Development (EURODAD)'s commentary on recent news articles highlighting tensions between World Bank Management and the Board of Directors. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3163.aspx Fri, 16 Feb 2007 11:56:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3163.aspx A new film by independent Malian director demands accountability from the IFIs for their impacts in Africa. Staged in a typical family courtyard in Mali, "Bamako" beautifully documents a people's trial of the World Bank and IMF. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3150.aspx Tue, 13 Feb 2007 19:01:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3150.aspx The controversial Chad-Cameroon pipeline is again in the news after an off-shore oil spill occurred near the town of Kribi in coastal Cameroon. Meanwhile in southern Chad, where ExxonMobil and its consortium partners extract nearly 200,000 barrels of “black gold” per day, the security situation and living conditions are deteriorating. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3148.aspx Tue, 13 Feb 2007 10:20:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3148.aspx Consultation period closed on January 26. Management to update the current draft in preparation for a March 20 Board of Directors meeting. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3146.aspx Mon, 12 Feb 2007 15:57:43 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3146.aspx The Compliance Advisor Ombudsman(CAO), the independent recourse mechanism in charge of enhancing the development impact and sustainability of the IFC and MIGA, opened the floor for comments on the its Revised Draft Operational Guidelines at the end of 2006. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3145.aspx Mon, 12 Feb 2007 12:13:58 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3145.aspx Jennifer Dorn has been serving as Acting Executive Director. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3143.aspx Fri, 09 Feb 2007 12:37:42 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3143.aspx Accompanied with new anti-corruption frameworks and laws, loans to both Cambodia and Vietnam have been reinstated after a year of supension. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3137.aspx Thu, 08 Feb 2007 14:23:52 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3137.aspx US Treasury International Affairs Under-Secretary Timothy D. Adams announced his resignation on February 2, 2007. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3132.aspx Thu, 08 Feb 2007 11:27:08 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3132.aspx The World Bank recently released its annual report on Bank Management’s progress in implementing the recommendations laid out in the 2003 Extractive Industries Review (EIR). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3127.aspx Fri, 02 Feb 2007 11:30:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3127.aspx Referencing key board documents, investigative journalist Richar Behar exposes deep tensions between World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz and the Bank's Board of Directors. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3119.aspx Wed, 31 Jan 2007 11:39:49 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3119.aspx The Center for Environment and Development (CED), a Cameroon-based organization that has been active in monitoring the impacts of the Chad-Cameroon oil pipeline project, has issued a press release on the incident. CED notes, among other things, a concern regarding the poor communication and long delay in alerting the public and local authorities about the spill. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3108.aspx Wed, 24 Jan 2007 17:44:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3108.aspx More than 60 civil society organizations from developed and developing nations, signed on to a letter addressed to President Wolfowitz expressing concern over the Bank's new Health, Nutrition, and Population (HNP) strategy. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3102.aspx Wed