Following stops in New York City and London, the 2024 Independent Accountability Mechanisms Network (IAMnet) Annual Meetings head far east, to Manila. From October 1–4, the 21st edition of the Annual Meetings will be co-hosted by the Asian Development Bank’s Accountability Mechanism and the Independent Redress Mechanism of the Green Climate Fund. More than 60 participants will gather at the headquarters of the Asian Development Bank for four days of robust discussions on the key accountability trends, including a day-long session planned by civil society organizations (CSOs). 

IAMnet, which includes 23 IAMs linked to development finance institutions, meets annually to discuss challenges faced, best practices, and innovations, in addition to organizing joint outreach events and other activities. The World Bank Accountability Mechanism currently serves as the Secretariat of IAMnet, and assists in coordinating the IAMnet Annual Meetings.

For many, a highlight of the Annual Meetings is the session with CSOs, which often serve as a bridge between IAMs and communities that may have been harmed by development projects. This year’s session is expected to be attended by more than 40 CSO representatives, and will provide an opportunity for participants to hear directly from civil society about their concerns regarding the work of IAMs. The 2023 CSO session, for example, reflected on the difficult question of IAM independence. 

Many participants view the IAMnet Annual Meetings as the year’s most consequential event in furthering the work of accountability. “The IAMnet meetings provide a unique opportunity to discuss the issues that matter most to IAMs,” said World Bank Accountability Mechanism Secretary Orsolya Székely. “The international financial institutions we serve may be different, but the challenges that accountability mechanisms face are strikingly similar. There is a tremendous value in learning from the knowledge and experience of our partner institutions. These yearly meetings contribute to making accountability mechanisms stronger—and reaffirm our commitment to addressing the concerns of communities that may be harmed by projects. We are grateful to everyone who takes the time to attend, especially from civil society, which is committed to joining us year after year.”

Watch the IAMnet hosts preview this year’s meetings