ADB welcomes the participation of civil society organizations (CSOs) and other NGOs to its Annual Meeting. As in previous years, the civil society program serves as a venue for dialogue on key development topics, knowledge-sharing, and networking. The program kicks off with the meeting between CSOs and the ADB President and followed by a series of policy discussions, knowledge sharing, and networking events.

This year’s program is inspired by the Pacific concept of “Talanoa”, which refers to a conversation, story-telling, and sharing of ideas. The purpose of Talanoa is to exchange information, teach a skill, to resolve problems, and to build relationships. On 2-3 May 2019, the Civil Society Talanoa will feature CSO exhibits, learning events, informal talks, and cultural presentations. The Talanoa provides an opportunity to share lessons, build network, and promote collaboration among CSOs and other development partners. The ADB is cooperating with relevant CSOs in the Pacific in organizing the program.

Download the 2019 Civil Society Program

Wednesday, 01 May 2019

Thursday, 02 May 2018

  • 1:45 pm to 2:45 pm,
    Westin Senirosi Rua
    Civil Society Program
    ADB senior management, represented by the ADB President, addressed representatives of CSOs and NGOs. This was followed by a question and answer that covered topics related to ADB’s programs and policies.
  • 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm,
    Westin Senirosi Rua
    Civil Society Program
    Civil Society Panel (NGO Forum on ADB)
    In view of the provisions in ADB’s 2009 Energy Policy, the panel discussed ADB-supported energy projects in selected developing member countries in the context of achieving adequate and affordable energy by promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy, consistent with the principles of the Paris Agreement.
  • 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm,
    Westin Coco Palms
    Civil Society Panel
    Organized by the the Pacific Islands Association of Non-Government Organisations (PIANGO)
    For over half a century, ADB has partnered with Pacific developing member countries to help them grow and prosper. Civil society organizations (CSOs) including NGOs, have played a key role in addressing poverty in the region. This session was organized by key CSOs in the Pacific.

Friday, 03 May 2018

  • 9:00 pm to 10:00 pm,
    Westin Coco Palms
    Civil Society Program
    The civil society program welcomed Annual Meeting participants to the Talanoa, a space for storytelling and sharing of ideas. Talanoa is a Pacific concept of sharing stories to create connections and build relationships.
  • 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm,
    Westin Coco Palms
    Civil Society Program
    Enjoy the cultural presentation and visit the exhibit displays of civil society organizations at the Civil Society Talanoa, a space for storytelling and sharing of ideas. Engage with CSO representatives and other development partners to share lessons and good practice.
  • 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm,
    Westin Coco Palms
    Civil Society Program
    Short, powerful presentations that focus on topics related to the role of civil society organizations in addressing key development concerns, such as resilience and adaptation to climate change, ending gender-based discrimination, and promoting accountable government institutions, among others. The TED-style talks helped share ideas and solutions among development practitioners.

Saturday, 04 May 2018

  • 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm,
    Westin Coco Palms Bowling Green
    Civil Society Program
    This unified sport interactive activity will showcase the true spirit of inclusion and allow diverse stakeholders to engage in and understand the challenges and unique abilities of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Interact with Special Olympics athletes and staff to delve deeper into how projects can be designed to be more inclusive.
  • 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm,
    Westin, Senirosi Rua
    Civil Society Program
    Civil Society Panel (NGO Forum on ADB)
    The ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (SPS) aims to promote sustainability of project outcomes by protecting the environment and people from projects' potential adverse impacts where possible, and helping borrowers to strengthen their safeguard systems and develop the capacity to manage environmental and social risks. The panel explored issues on the ground in relation to effective implementation of ADB’s SPS.

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