Session Description
The session will explore whether IA, as currently implemented by development finance institutions, remains fit for purpose when 25+ years of accountability experience shows how inadequate assessments can contribute to harm by obscuring critical risks and weakening preventive safeguards. CAO Advisory provides independent, evidence-based advice to strengthen environmental and social performance and reduce risks to people and the environment. Grounded in lessons from complaints, casework, and evolving international practice, CAO Advisory’s work aligns closely with the IAIA2027 theme, “Looking Back for the Future of Impact Assessment.”
CAO Advisory proposes an interactive session examining what IA can learn from real-world project outcomes. Using a solution room format, participants will explore how recurring shortcomings in impact assessment have contributed to complaints and adverse environmental and social impacts. They will then step into an advisory role to develop practical recommendations for strengthening future IAs.
The session will begin with a presentation highlighting insights from CAO cases and, where feasible, contributions from other accountability mechanisms with advisory mandates. Participants will then work in facilitated groups to analyze case-based scenarios focused on key environmental and social issues. Drawing on evidence from CAO case analyses across sectors and regions, groups will identify shortcomings in IA and propose actions to strengthen feedback loops between implementation experience and future assessments. The session will conclude with a plenary discussion on what assessment practices should continue, stop, start, or evolve.
Session Summary
CAO Advisory's interactive solution room focuses on how lessons from 25+ years of accountability casework can strengthen IA. Participants will examine real-world shortcomings, develop practical recommendations, and explore whether current approaches remain fit for purpose and effective in strengthening E&S outcomes.
Session Chair
Irum Ahsan
CAO
United States