Session Description
In the Pacific, development partners use a differentiated approach to support safeguards compliance that is tailored to the unique circumstances of Pacific island countries (PICs). Recognizing their vulnerabilities, capacity constraints, geographic isolation, and exposure to natural disasters and climate risks, institutions adapt project support to country-specific needs rather than applying a one-size-fits-all model.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) works with partners such as the Australian Government and the World Bank to harmonize policy requirements, coordinate capacity-building efforts, and identify practical solutions to implementation challenges. Drawing on case studies and practical experience from project implementation across the Pacific, this session will explore how a differentiated approach helps address distance, limited institutional capacity, high costs, climate-related risks, and other regional challenges while supporting effective development outcomes. The discussion will highlight lessons learned, emerging good practices, and opportunities to strengthen impact assessment and safeguards implementation in the Pacific. Contributions and questions from the audience will be encouraged.
Session Summary
How do ADB and its development partners apply safeguard requirements adapted to the Pacific’s unique social, economic, environmental, and capacity constraints? This session will explore the differentiated approaches, partnerships, and practical solutions used to achieve effective and sustainable safeguards outcomes.
Additional Information
Questions and contributions from the audience will be encouraged.
Session Chair
Jay Roop
ADB
Fiji