The Parliamentary Network on the World Bank and IMF (PN) is an independent, non-governmental organization that strives to increase transparency and accountability in the development cooperation process. Country chapters offer a direct channel for parliamentary feedback on development programs and strengthening political advocacy of the Bank’s operations.
The Japan Chapter of the Parliamentary Network on the World Bank (PNoWB Japan), created in 2004, is one of the largest and most well-established chapters, with nearly 50 high-ranking members. For the World Bank Group (WBG) Tokyo Office it is a means of regular and targeted engagement with Members of Parliament (MPs) which has been integral in securing strong International Development Association (IDA) replenishments as well as International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and International Finance Corporation (IFC) capital increases, each requiring the passage of stand-alone legislation by parliament.
ECR VP Sheila Redzepi (on screen) exchanging virtually with the Japan Chapter of the Parliamentary Network General Assembly
Japan has been a major contributor to the World Bank, and to IDA in particular. Why is that?
Japan was one of the largest borrowers from the World Bank in the 1950s and 60s. The bullet train connecting Tokyo with Kyoto and Osaka was financed by IBRD. Japanese corporations, including Toyota, were supported by the World Bank.
Investing in and partnering with the WBG is also in Japan’s own interest as it enables them to have a larger influence in the global community, particularly in low-income countries. Japan’s successful presidency of the G20 in 2019, in which the WBG played a prominent role, was a key milestone in this regard.
What role has parliament played in this strong relationship?
Japan’s strong commitment to the WBG has remained intact thanks largely to sustained strong support by parliament. For example, IDA appropriation bills have been approved unanimously by parliament for 60 years. IDA20 is no exception. The Lower House approved it on March 11, 2022 and we expect the Upper House to follow soon.
Former Chair of PNoWB Japan chatting with the Head of the Tokyo Office
The Tokyo office’s prioritized engagement with parliamentarians could be described as best practice. How did you achieve this?
Parliament plays a critically important role in our close relationship with Japan, as it represents the will of the Japanese people and is the organ that makes the ultimate decision on budget allocations. Establishing rapport with individual parliamentarians is a daunting task, but this is where the PNoWB Japan comes into play. Membership cuts across party lines and acts as the eyes and ears of the whole parliament. To keep them informed in a continuous manner, we produce and hand-deliver monthly newsletters to MPs, together with WBG senior management op-eds and interviews run by the local press. Occasionally, we organize high-level meetings for MPs with senior management.
You arranged a virtual call between nine WBG VPs and the PNOWB Japan in January. Why was that necessary?
There were several reasons for this meeting. The PNoWB Japan elected a new Chair last October. In addition, IDA20 pledges made last December were being presented for ratification by parliament. The meeting served to connect the new Chair with WBG senior management and ask MPs for their support of IDA20.
World Bank Tokyo Office staff welcoming Members of Parliament at the PNoWB Japan General Assembly
What are the challenges in engaging with parliament in Japan?
A population whose proficiency in English may not be at the optimal level, located in a time zone more than 12 hours ahead, makes connecting Japanese MPs with WBG headquarters in Washington a challenge. Against this backdrop, the PNoWB Japan acts as a gateway between the WBG and Japanese political leadership, facilitating strategic dialogue while enhancing the flow of information between the two sides.
Members of Parliament interested in creating a chapter of the PN in their country can find more information here.
