Transparency
& Project Complaints
Transparency and accountability are core values of the North American Development Bank (“NADBank” or the “Bank”). As required under Chapter II, Article III, Sections 14 and 15, of its Charter, NADBank has established a framework related to public access to information, public notice of projects under consideration, a grievance mechanism regarding projects supported by the NADBank and a mechanism by which independent assessments may be requested regarding the observance of the NADBank environmental mandate. These four NADBank policies are presented below.
1. Policies regarding disclosure and confidentiality
These policies establish guidelines for the public availability of documentary information in the possession of NADBank and for designating certain information as protected from disclosure.
These policies establish requirements for providing notice of public meetings of the NADBank Board of Directors, applications for project certification and financing, requests for technical assistance, and projects that will be considered for certification and financing by the NADBank Board of Directors.
Links:
Applications for project certification and financing
Requests for technical assistance
3. Policy regarding complaints from groups affected by projects.
This policy defines guidelines for submittal of complaints by groups alleging they have been adversely affected by projects that the Bank has assisted or approved for certification and financing. Complaints can be submitted in writing to the Board of Directors through the Managing Director of the Bank at: 203 S. St. Mary’s, San Antonio, Texas 78205. Complaints may also be submitted using the following link.
Complaints should be submitted without fear of reprisal or retaliation of any type by NADBank. Any such act of reprisal or retaliation by NADBank staff should also be promptly reported to NADBank, who shall ensure that such incidents are investigated fully, taking into consideration conflict of interest principles.
4. Policy for independent assessments.
This policy establishes procedures whereby, upon request by an external entity, the NADBank Board of Directors may obtain an independent assessment to determine whether the provisions of Chapter III of the Charter, or the policies related to that chapter, have been observed. Chapter III of the Charter is related primarily to the environmental purpose and functions of NADBank.
Report prohibited practices
Integrity
NADBank operates with high standards of integrity in fulfilling its mandate and ensuring good stewardship of the its resources. NADBank employees and third parties working with NADBank shall maintain high levels of integrity, accountability and efficiency.
Allegations of misconduct by NADBank staff or by individuals related to projects or activities supported by NADBank, including but not limited to, allegations of corruption, fraud, waste, money laundering, financing of terrorism, retaliation against whistleblowers, or sexual harassment, abuse, or exploitation can be reported using the following process.
Filing a Complaint
While a complaint can be filed anonymously, doing so could significantly limit NADBank’s ability to obtain additional information or complete an investigation. Individuals who file a complaint may request that their identity remain confidential if they believe disclosing it may lead to hardship or place them in danger.
Complaints should be submitted without fear of reprisal or retaliation of any type by NADBank. Any such act of reprisal or retaliation should also be promptly reported to NADBank, which shall ensure that such incidents are investigated fully, taking into consideration conflict of interest principles. NADBank will take all available measures within the capacities of the Bank to protect whistleblowers or witnesses from reprisal or retaliation if they so request.
Complaints can be sent to the attention of the Office of the General Counsel at NADBank: 203 S. St, Mary’s, San Antonio, Texas 78205 or electronically using the form below.