Accountability Counsel amplifies the voices of communities around the world to protect their human rights and environment. As advocates for people harmed by internationally financed projects, we employ community driven and policy level strategies to access justice.
Impact
-
Communities Supported142
Our impact includes redesigned projects that now reflect community needs, harm stopped and prevented to defend water resources, and agreements resulting in compensation.
-
Institutions Influenced162
We advocate for investors to create accountability offices that are independent, transparent, fair, and effective. We have improved policy and practice at development institutions, commercial banks, UN agencies, and within the OECD.
-
Complaints Tracked2,000+
We created and maintain the Accountability Console, a comprehensive database of community complaints filed with independent accountability mechanisms about the impacts of internationally financed projects.
News
-
25 September, 2025‘Our Land, Our Lives’: Lesotho villagers challenge Gauteng water scheme
Eighteen rural communities in Lesotho’s Mokhotlong district have lodged a formal complaint with the African Development Bank (AfDB) about Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project. -
22 September, 2025Villagers lodge complaint with AfDB against Lesotho Highlands Water Project
Grievances listed include unsatisfactory relocations, damaged homes, a lack of compensation and loss of livelihoods caused by the project. -
17 September, 2025Lesotho communities file complaint over Polihali Dam project; LHDA defends implementation
Villagers in Lesotho’s Mokhotlong District have filed a complaint with the African Development Bank over the Polihali Dam, citing damage to homes, livelihoods, and the environment, while the project authority insists safeguards and compensation measures are in place. -
16 September, 2025Lesotho villagers complain of damage from water project backed by African Development Bank
Eighteen rural communities in Lesotho have filed a complaint with the African Development Bank over its funding of a multibillion-pound water project whose construction process they claim has ruined fields, polluted water sources and damaged homes. -
16 September, 2025Lesotho Highlands Water Project faces fresh opposition as communities demand accountability
A $3.1 billion project meant to ease Johannesburg’s growing water crisis has hit a new obstacle. Affected communities in Lesotho have filed a formal complaint demanding construction be halted until their grievances are addressed.
