As the Asian Development Bank prepares for its 59th Annual Meeting, Fridays from the Field brings forward voices often left out—communities affected by ADB-funded projects. This series highlights real experiences, exposing gaps in safeguards, accountability, and energy governance. In a time of global uncertainty, it calls for development that truly protects people and upholds “Do No Harm.”

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) responded to the NGO Forum on ADB’s request for an introductory meeting with Zou Jiayi, noting her current schedule constraints while reaffirming the Bank’s recognition of civil society’s role in sustainable development. AIIB indicated that Vice President Sherard Cowper-Coles will lead the engagement and coordinate a virtual meeting with the Forum in the coming period.

The Regional Network Escazú Ahora strongly condemns the legal measures taken against CIAM and Adopta Bosque in Panama, including the freezing of their bank accounts. These actions threaten essential environmental defense work and undermine fundamental rights to participation, expression, and access to justice. Environmental defense is a right—not a crime.

NGO Forum on ADB has formally requested a brief virtual introductory meeting with Zou Jiayi, President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). The Forum conveyed its congratulations on her appointment and reaffirmed its commitment to continued constructive engagement with AIIB on safeguards, transparency, accountability, and sustainable development.

This International Women’s Day, we launch “One Word, Stronger World” to highlight the voices of women in our network and allies. From March 1 to 13, women leaders will each share one powerful word and a short reflection on why it matters in advancing rights, justice, and action in development and climate work. Because words shape narratives — and narratives shape power — this campaign is our collective step toward reclaiming space, amplifying leadership, and building a strong

The withdrawal of the Cirebon 1 pilot from ADB’s Energy Transition Mechanism marks a critical moment for coal retirement. Once presented as a flagship for early coal exit, its failure exposes serious flaws in the ETM—from weak transparency and support for coal companies to a drift away from real phaseout. This is a clear call to rethink coal retirement in a way that is just, fast, and people-centered.