World Bank Approves Structural Changes to Strengthen Accountability Mechanism
The reforms aim to enhance the independence and overall effectiveness of the accountability process while improving operational efficiency and coordination.

The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors approved key changes to the structure of its Accountability Mechanism (AM) on January 8, 2025. The reforms aim to enhance the independence and overall effectiveness of the accountability process while improving operational efficiency and coordination.
The approved changes introduce a more streamlined and independent framework for the Inspection Panel (IPN) and the Dispute Resolution Service (DRS):
Parallel Operation of Units: The IPN, responsible for compliance reviews, and the DRS, focused on dispute resolution, will now operate as two parallel units. Each will independently report to the Board of Executive Directors.
New Executive Secretary Role: A new position, Executive Secretary, will be established to support both units. This individual will work under the direct supervision of the IPN Chair and the Head of the DRS, providing essential administrative, communication, and coordination services.
Background and Implementation
The structural reforms are based on recommendations from an external review team commissioned by the Board in 2024 to assess options for improving the World Bank’s accountability processes. The changes will take effect in the coming weeks following the adoption of amendments to governing resolutions by the Board.
Notably, ongoing cases under the current accountability framework will remain unaffected by these changes. The Board is also considering additional reforms to further strengthen accountability mechanisms across the institution.
Enhanced Support for Project-Affected Communities
The reforms reaffirm the World Bank’s commitment to ensuring that communities affected by its projects have access to fair and effective grievance redress mechanisms. The DRS and AM, created in 2020, provide avenues for dispute resolution and addressing concerns raised by project-affected communities.
The IPN, established in 1993, was the first independent accountability mechanism introduced by an international financial institution. It serves as a critical tool for compliance reviews and has inspired the creation of similar mechanisms across other global organizations.
Broader Implications
With the introduction of these reforms, the World Bank aims to:
- Foster greater trust and transparency between project stakeholders and the institution.
- Streamline the accountability process to reduce delays in addressing complaints.
- Empower affected communities with enhanced tools to resolve disputes or seek compliance reviews.
These changes align with the World Bank’s broader mission of promoting sustainable development while safeguarding the rights of impacted communities. Further developments, including potential future reforms, will underscore the institution’s evolving commitment to accountability and fairness.
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