Move Creates One Integrated WBG Independent Accountability Mechanism to Increase Effectiveness and Cohesion for Better Results
WASHINGTON, June 9, 2026-The Boards of the World Bank Group-the IBRD, IDA, IFC, and MIGA-yesterday approved the integration of the Group's three independent accountability mechanisms-the World Bank Accountability Mechanism (comprised of the Inspection Panel and the Dispute Resolution Service), and the IFC/MIGA Compliance Advisor Ombudsman-into a single Independent Accountability Mechanism.
The new mechanism will operate independently of WBG management, reporting directly to the Boards, and will be led by a Vice President/Director General. It will carry out three core functions-compliance, dispute resolution, and advisory-and is designed to make the accountability process simpler and clearer for complainants to navigate. The decision is part of a broader effort to reduce fragmentation and strengthen coherence across World Bank Group operations.
The new IAM policy framework will be developed building upon the experience of the existing IAMs and guided by the principle of non-regression, under Board oversight, in consultation with stakeholders.
A transparent and competitive recruitment process for a Vice President/Director General to lead the new mechanism will begin immediately, led by the Boards. In the interim, all three existing mechanisms will continue to function under their existing policies and mandates. No active or pending cases will be affected.
The decision draws on more than a year of deliberation, including over multiple public consultations, webinars, learning engagements with other MDB IAMs, and written comment periods since September 2025. A Task Force engaged by the Boards developed recommendations that informed the final decision. Here is the link to the Task Force Report.
