John Fitzgerald: World Bank Whistleblower
In 2002, John was the sole analyst overseeing environmental compliance with U.S. participation in multinational development bank projects. His position was abruptly abolished after he persisted in raising problems about pending projects.
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) eliminated John’s position under pressure from U.S. Treasury officials determined to secure financing for questionable energy projects in Africa, South America and Eastern Europe, including –
- A host of problems with a proposed nuclear power plant, K2R4, in the Ukraine;
- Corruption and inadequate planning in the Bujagali Falls Dam in Uganda; and
- Environmental deficiencies in the proposed Chad-Cameroon oil pipeline.
An independent World Bank review panel subsequently verified the problems that had been stricken from USAID reports. PEER represented John in filing a whistleblower complaint.
That complaint was ultimately upheld and the case then settled.
Support PEER's work defending courageous eco-champions like John.
News Releases
WHISTLEBLOWER COMPLAINT ON WORLD BANK PROJECTS
U.S. AID WHISTLEBLOWER WINS RULING