Corrupt and collusive practices are common grounds for exclusion in public and multilateral development bank (MDB) procurement. The fight against corruption is caught by the ‘G’ of ESG and thus is the focus of exclusions and debarments. But what about other ESG-related issues? How are those identified, investigated and then sanctioned? Are ESG-violations sufficient grounds that can lead to exclusion or debarment?

Panellists will discuss how MDBs and public authorities have started to include ESG considerations in their investigation practices. Just as the US Magnitsky Act considers corruption as a human rights violation, MDB and public procurement could be close to extending their investigations by scrutinising more than the traditional sanctionable practices to sanction also other ESG violations committed under their projects.