An evolution of public consultation requirements within the environmental impact assessment process at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development

Abstract

Over its 12-year history, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has developed a range of public consultation requirements in response to its shareholders and the public. Public consultation takes place prior to, and following, the Bank's consideration of a project as well as during project implementation. The Bank has also developed an accountability mechanism for grievances from people directly affected by projects financed by the Bank and has undertaken steps to improve reporting on the environmental impact of Bank activities. Case studies provide examples of EBRD's initiatives on complex projects to improve disclosure of information and consultation.

Keywords:

• EBRD
• international financial institutions
• Central and Eastern Europe
• former Soviet Union
• public consultation
• EIA
• accountability