Final findings and judgement from the Independent People's Tribunal on the World Bank in India
"Our conclusion based on these testimonies is that the majority of World Bank sponsored projects do not serve their stated purpose, nor do they benefit the poor of India. Instead in many cases, they have caused grievous and irreversible damage to those they intend to serve."
The evidence we have heard adds up to a disturbing picture of the World Bank's underlying agenda and operations, as it benefits those privileged with capital but pushes to despair the already vulnerable.
We recommend that the World Bank should compensate those it has harmed gravely through its policies, projects, and neglect in carrying out its own environmental and social safeguards.
Unless there are instituted clear and transparent mechanisms through which World Bank activities and policies can be independently monitored and audited, it would be better for the World Bank to quit operations in India.
The jury called for comprehensive reforms to the World Bank's operational policies, greater transparency in its dealings with the Indian government, and meaningful compensation for communities harmed by Bank-funded projects.
The jury sat before the tribunal, heard depositions and passed the final judgement. These distinguished experts in their fields were selected by the groups involved in organizing the tribunal.
The World Bank declined to participate in the Tribunal proceedings but issued statements in response to the charges. The Tribunal subsequently responded to the Bank's statements.
