ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the fundamental role of transparency and public participation in Export credit agencies (ECA) activities, and discusses whether and how increased transparency by itself can have an impact on their cover decisions. It also sets out the international negotiation process leading up to common, binding standards for export credit agencies (ECAs) at the OECD level, pointing out the difficulties in reaching a common position. With a view to the practical role and relevance of transparency, information disclosure and participation, the chapter provides insights at the national level, draws comparison of different national approaches, and discusses their respective merits. Civil society actors have heavily criticized ECAs for their lack of transparency in decision-making, accusing them of excessive secrecy. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have repeatedly demanded that information about supported projects and the decision process be made publicly accessible.
