Remarks on the practice of regional development banks’ (RDBs) accountability mechanisms and the safeguard of human rights

Abstract

Based on the experience of the World Bank’s Inspection Panel, Regional Development Banks (RDBs) have established accountability mechanisms with the aim to control the compliance of their lending activities with their own operational policies and procedures. Notwithstanding different models created, weaknesses and critical issues, RDBs mechanisms are contributing to the promotion and protection of human rights at the universal level, holding RDBs accountable for violations of international human rights law. Since they allow individuals to present claims related to rights and interests affected by an act or omission of the organization, RDBs accountability mechanisms are innovative instruments in the law of international organizations aimed at consolidating objectives related to sustainable development, promotion of fundamental rights and freedoms, protection of cultural heritage and rights of indigenous people, safeguard of environment and biodiversity.