The Inspection Panel Annual Report 2025

Overview & Synopsis

In Fiscal Year 2025, the Inspection Panel demonstrated agility and resilience while fulfilling its mandate of ensuring accountability at the World Bank. It addressed complaints from project-affected people, strengthened internal processes, and deepened engagement with the Board of Executive Directors, civil society, and other stakeholders. The Panel processed eight new Requests for Inspection, registering six and completing six eligibility assessments across multiple regions. It actively contributed to institutional reforms, including the restructuring of the Accountability Mechanism (AM), which now comprises the Panel and the Dispute Resolution Service as parallel entities reporting independently to the Board. The Panel also supported the Board’s Committee on Development Effectiveness in integrating accountability mechanisms under the One World Bank vision. Through participation in key conferences such as IAMnet in Manila, COP29 in Baku, and technical workshops in Bologna and London, the Panel emphasized that reforms must not compromise the rights of Requesters or weaken accountability. It collaborated with other Independent Accountability Mechanisms (IAMs) to advance principles of data sharing and transparency. Looking ahead, the Panel remains committed to listening to affected communities, addressing harm allegations independently, and ensuring World Bank projects meet policy standards and take remedial action when necessary.