ADB Bars 40 Firms, 33 People Due to Corruption in 2005

MANILA, PHILIPPINES - ADB barred 40 firms and 33 individuals last year as a result of its corruption investigations, according to a new report by ADB's Integrity Division. This makes a total of nearly 250 firms and individuals banned from working for ADB since it began investigating corruption allegations in 1998.

"ADB will not tolerate corruption in ADB-financed projects or its staff," says ADB Auditor General Peter Pedersen. "The measures taken against these firms and individuals illustrate our commitment to fully investigating allegations of corruption and taking action against those who violate the ADB Anti-Corruption Policy."

The Integrity Division, a part of ADB's Office of the Auditor General, which is tasked with enforcing the bank's Anti-Corruption Policy, received 199 complaints last year. This was a 44% increase in the number received in 2004 and resulted in 102 investigations.

According to the report, 72% of the cases investigated involved ADB-financed activities, while 15% involved ADB staff. The remainder involved other parties. The firms that were barred as a result of the investigations are prohibited from doing business with ADB for up to seven years.

ADB does not publicize the list of firms and individuals that have been investigated or barred from doing business with the institution, although it does make the list available to staff and other international organizations.

In addition to investigating allegations of corruption, ADB supports governments in their fight against corrupt practices, Mr. Pedersen adds.

"Our Governance and Anticorruption Policies support governments' efforts toward effective and transparent systems of public service, anti-bribery, and business integrity," he says. "We have provided technical assistance to member countries to support anti-corruption commissions, and offer advice on how to improve public and corporate governance."

Read the full report.