DevForum FAQs

What is DevForum?

The Development Forum (DevForum) is the World Bank’s main electronic venue for dialogue and knowledge-sharing among members of the development community. Its focal point is an ongoing and expanding series of electronic discussions (e-discussions) and consultations on key issues and challenges facing the development community and the world's poor.

How does it work?

DevForum is supported by an online technical platform called Dgroups (www.dgroups.org). It uses e-mail (through a “list serv” email distribution list) and the World Wide Web (where e-discussions are archived for future reference) to foster increased dialogue and knowledge-sharing on development issues in an inclusive, collegial atmosphere. In most cases the e-discussions are focused on a particular topic, limited in duration and are open to the public.

What is special about the DevForum?

Through Dgroups, a joint initiative sponsored by nine different development organizations (Bellanet, DFID, Hivos, ICA, IICD, ICCO, OneWorld, UNAIDS, and the World Bank), DevForum attempts to bring together international development groups as an online community to facilitate dialogue among key stakeholders. It offers a simple, non-commercial, and private environment for these dialogues and by using email it specifically targets non-profits and low bandwidth users in the South, making it easier for their voices to be heard.

How is DevForum supported?

DevForum is hosted by the World Bank and administered by the Global Development Learning network (GDLN). Development e-dialogues are sponsored by the World Bank or by other World Bank partner organizations around the world committed to sustainable development.

How do I participate in an e-discussion?

You can participate in any public or "open space" e-discussions by accessing the dgroups website (www.dgroups.org), locating the e-discussion in your area of interest, and clicking on "join" on the log-in page. If an e-discussion is listed as a "closed space" it is private and by invitation only.

Most World Bank e-dicussions are private and intended mainly for clients of the World Bank, i.e. policymakers, government officials, development bankers, development experts, media representatives, representatives of bilateral and multilateral organizations, staff of nongovernmental organizations, and other clients working with the World Bank. Although many World Bank e-discussions are restricted to clients, some are open to other interested parties and may be joined online at www.worldbank.org/devforum

Can I start an e-discussion?

DevForum e-discussions can only be hosted by the World Bank and their partner organizations. Please send your request to ediscussion@worldbank.org.