The World Bank and the Economic, Social and Cultural Rights of People Affected by its Projects

Abstract

The article analyzes the practice of the Inspection Group of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and the International Development Association, as well as the Compliance Advisor/ Ombudsman of the International Finance Corporation and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency, which form part of the World Bank Group. The aim is to examine how these mechanisms integrate economic, social and cultural rights into the performance of the World Bank, given that the Bank has traditionally had a State–centered vision about economic development. In doing so, the Bank did not deal with the legal position of each person considered individually. The study suggests that a paradigm shift has taken place from a State–centered concept towards one whereby individuals have acquired a certain legal significance in the articulation of economic development. This shift allows a long–term sustainable development consistent with the interests and rights of all those affected by this development.