European Ombudswoman Teresa Anjinho has welcomed a decision by the European Investment Bank (EIB) to start proactively publishing its environmental and social assessments for projects located outside the EU that are likely to have a significant impact on the environment. From now on, the EIB will publish this information ahead of the adoption of financing decisions by its Board of Directors.

The earlier publication of this data should allow the public to more meaningfully participate in the assessment of the environmental and social aspects of projects the EIB is considering funding. It will also better align the EIB’s practices with those of other multilateral development banks.

The EIB’s decision follows an Ombudsman inquiry concerning its refusal to give public access to the environmental and social assessment of a project in Nairobi, Kenya as well as its general practice of not publishing such information until after financing decisions have been taken.