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Cooperation Between the ADB and NGOs

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Introduction

Cooperation between the Asian Development Bank and nongovernment organizations (NGOs) is consistent with the Bank's role and functions as set out in Articles 2(i) and 2(v) of the Bank's Charter. The Bank's 1987 policy paper The Bank's Cooperation with Non-Governmental Organizations (R79-87), the first and still the most current policy document on the subject, established a broad framework of cooperation between the Bank and NGOs and addressed a range of operational and institutional implications.

In reviewing the Bank's experience with NGOs to that time, the 1987 policy paper regarded cooperation with NGOs as an effective means of supplementing efforts in selected operational areas. The policy stated that the Bank could enhance the effectiveness of its operations through employing the special capabilities and expertise that NGOs possess. The 1987 policy paper concluded that given the potential value of NGOs in operations, it would be appropriate that the Bank formulate a strategy and related policies for cooperation with NGOs in selected projects and on a selective basis.

The developmental circumstances of the Asian and Pacific region have changed significantly since 1987. Reflecting these changes, the Bank and the NGO sector in the Region have changed significantly as well. The Bank has adopted an operational strategy that continues support for integrated, growth-oriented development projects but that also supports projects focused on human development, social development, and environmental protection. The NGO sector has shown significant strengthening in its operational capacity, and its role, impact, and influence in development processes has become much greater. Respective changes within the Bank and the NGO sector necessarily have resulted in changed relationships between the Bank and NGOs. Within the context of this set of changes, it is necessary that the Bank review its strategies and policies for cooperation with NGOs, and that new policies and approaches for Bank-NGO cooperation be formulated as appropriate and necessary.

This policy addresses cooperation with NGOs in the Bank's current operational and policy environment. Section II presents an overview of the NGO sector; Section III reviews the Bank's experience in NGO cooperation; Section IV presents a proposed framework for the Bank's future cooperation with NGOs; Section V addresses institutional implications of a new approach to NGO cooperation; and Section VI presents a specific set of policy directions.

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