ADB Invites Comment on Draft Whistleblower Provision Improvements

BALI, INDONESIA - The Asian Development Bank (ADB) on 1 May kicked off a 90-day period for public comment on proposed improvements to its protections for those who report integrity violations and misconduct related to ADB or ADB-financed projects.

The draft "Whistleblower and Witness Protection" provisions, posted on ADB’s website,consolidate and extend ADB's existing protections and were drawn up after extensive consultation within the ADB and following recommendations from outside experts and ADB staff.

"ADB maintains zero tolerance of corruption. The proposed improvements to our whistleblower provisions are part of our ongoing efforts to combat fraud and corruption. It is essential that we protect those willing to come forward with information," said Philip Daltrop, ADB's Auditor General, attending ADB's 42nd Annual Meeting in Bali.

Proposed changes include improved access to information about how to respond to retaliation linked to whistleblowing. The new provisions would also, under specified circumstances, extend protection to whistleblowers who report a suspected ADB-related violation to an individual or body other than the ADB.

"The proposed changes reflect the best practices of other multilateral development banks, the United Nations and other international organizations and we welcome comments on the draft provisions," said Mr. Daltrop.

The public are invited to comment on the draft from 1 May to 29 July 2009. ADB will also accept anonymous comments.

To submit feedback, please email integrity@adb.org

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