International Rivers Shocked About US Pick for World Bank President

Date: 
Wednesday, March 16, 2005

According to US Treasury officials and Reuters News, the Bush administration has put forward Paul Wolfowitz as its candidate for World Bank President. International Rivers is shocked about this choice. The Deputy Defense Secretary’s strong support for the Iraq war reflects a disdain for international law and a multilateral approach to conflict resolution that disqualifies Wolfowitz from leading a multilateral institution.

Peter Bosshard, the Policy Director of International Rivers, comments: "In his career, Wolfowitz has so far not shown any interest in poverty reduction, environmental protection and human rights. His election as World Bank President would most likely exacerbate the current backlash against social and environmental concerns at the World Bank, and would initiate a new era of conflict between the Bank and civil society."

The undemocratic and non–transparent process which has so far marked the selection of a new World Bank President makes a mockery of the concept of country ownership which has gained prominence under President Wolfensohn. International Rivers calls on the member governments and the members of the Executive Board to reject the candidacy of Paul Wolfowitz, and to democratize the selection process for the next World Bank President.

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