The United States led the establishment of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) in 1944 and remains the largest shareholder of the World Bank Group. It holds 15.79% of voting power in IBRD, where the U.S. Executive Directorrepresents the United States on the 25-member Board of Directors of the World Bank Group.  As the only World Bank Group shareholder that retains veto power over certain changes in the Bank’s structure, the United States plays a unique role in influencing and shaping global development priorities.

The U.S. Executive Director is nominated by the President of the United States and confirmed by the U.S. Senate.  The U.S. Executive Director represents the interests of the United States  and enforces legislative mandates of the U.S. Congress while supporting the World Bank Group’s mission.  Through the World Bank Group, the United States participates in addressing vital international development challenges. The United States has a long history of generously supporting the World Bank Group’s mission and has championed the International Development Association (IDA), which provides concessional financing to the poorest countries.

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