ID: 1869
Presenting Author: Debbie Cousins
Session: 669 - Building Trust: Strengthening Accountability and Communication in Development Finance
Status: pending
A reflection of the value and challenges of communication in the IA process, due diligence and project implementation, including in conflict situations, from my experience and lessons learnt at the EB
Effective consultation and meaningful dialogue throughout the design, planning, and implementation of projects are essential for achieving improved outcomes, transparency, and stakeholder acceptance. Equally, accountability and proactive management of change and grievances are critical to maintaining or restoring trust when challenges arise. Drawing on my experience as an Impact Assessment professional at the European Bank for Reconstruction & Development (EBRD), I will discuss the requirements of our Environmental and Social Policy, highlighting practical tools and approaches that have be shared with Clients to improve communication and information management. Through relevant case studies, I will explore issue recognition, stakeholder consultation, and grievance management across project phases. I will emphasise the importance of understanding contextual concerns, developing adaptable stakeholder engagement plans, and utilising effective communication tools. Broader trends and emerging issues observed by EBRD such as dealing with conflict and retaliation will also be addressed, offering insights into evolving practices for fostering trust and accountability on projects. By sharing lessons learned, I hope to contribute to the broader conversation about the importance of strengthening accountability and communication in impact assessments and project implementation practices through meaningful dialogue, grievance and accountability mechanisms, which build trust and achieve sustainable outcomes in development finance projects and beyond.
Debbie Cousins is Director of ESD Operations at the EBRD, managing five sector teams, overseeing due diligence and monitoring, which involves working with CSOs and affected communities.