PHOTO ESSAY: Gold mining and health harms in HondurasApril 2, 2009
* * *
SAME COMPANY: Goldcorp Inc
SAME ALLEGED PROBLEMS: Health harms suffered by local, poor campesinos
SAME TYPE OF MINING: Open-pit, cyanide heap-leach gold mine
DIFFERENT COUNTRY: This time in Honduras
* * *
AIDA GREGORIA CRUZ (65 years old)
Photo 2. Aída Gregoria Cruz: lives in the Escanito community, 3 km fromGoldcorp Inc’s “San Martin” mine in the Siria Valley. Her illness appeared three months ago. During the day, her rash itches; she scratches. She feels desperate because the rash falls off in flakes, which causes it to itch more.
* * *
This Photo-Essay was prepared by the Siria Valley Regional Environmental Committee and Rights Action. Except for photo #1, all photos were taken between 12-13 March, 2009, by Carlos Amador (piviamador@yahoo.com), member of the Environmental Committee.
On February 20, 2009, Rights Action published a similar Photo-Essay: “Health harms in San Miguel Ixtahuacan where Goldcorp Inc. operates an open-pit, cyanide leeching gold mine”:http://www.rightsaction.org/articles/San_Miguel_022009.htm
Photo 1 (Rights Action): Goldcorp Inc. uses this irrigation system to soak the massive pile of rock and earth with cyanide, which soaks through, attaches to and then separates off the gold from other materials.
* * *
Since 2000, Canadian mining company Goldcorp Inc. operates the “San Martin” mine in the Siria Valley, via its Honduran subsidiary Entremares S.A.
Along with many people and groups in Honduras and Central and North America, we are convinced that the “San Martin” mine – like the “Marlin” mine in Guatemala - is the direct and indirect cause of the multiple health problems to the inhabitants of the communities close to the mine.
* * *
LICCY AMALIA CRUZ (4 years old)
Photo 3. Liccy Amalia Cruz: lives in the Escanito community. Her mother explains that a month ago Lucy began having itchy blisters on her head, which she scratched. Then, she began to lose her hair and have a constant itch on her scalp. She has been to the Health Center where they stated that her condition is the result of the region’s contamination caused by mining.
* * *
JOSE ESCOTO (5 months old)
Photo 5. José Escoto: lives in Palo Ralo, a community displaced by Goldcorp Inc., within 1 km of the mining activities. According to his mother Juana, José has bumps on his skin that itch a great deal. He scratches a lot during the night. He has been given medication, which allowed him to improve for a bit until the bumps reappeared.
* * *
CHRONOLGY OF INDIFFERENCE AND IMPUNITY
42,000 people live in the Siria Valley municipalities closest to the mine -- San Ignacio, El Porvenir and Cedros. Since 2000, the Siria Valley Environmental Committee has resisted the mine expansion into other municipalities and has denounced and demanded justice for the health and environmental damages. Rights Action has been supporting and working with the Environmental Committee since 2003.
To date, no justice or compensation has been achieved for the harms and violations. Goldcorp Inc. has the unconditional support of the governments of Honduras, Guatemala and Canada.
Almost every legal and administrative procedure and petition initiated by the Environmental Committee has been ignored or improperly dealt with by the legal system in Honduras. The government of Canada and mining industry reject every effort to pass legislation in Canada to establish even minimal criminal and civil legislation that could be used to hold companies like Goldcorp accountable in Canadian courts.
Goldcorp Inc is operating with almost complete impunity, and denies any connection between its mining operation and health and environmental harms and human rights violations.
* * *
VELKI CAROLINA CRUZ CASTILLO (9 years old)
Photo 6. Velki Cruz: has skin discoloration problems. She lives 3 km from the mine in Escanito. She has had this problem for the past three months and each day it spreads.
* * *
NORMA YOLANDA CRUZ (2 years old)Photo 7. Norma Yolanda Cruz: lives in Escanito. Her mother states that this girl has pimple-like bumps on her skin that itch and cause her to scratch. Her scratching has led to bleeding which triggers more pimple-like bumps. Her mother is troubled by Norma’s health condition. Her problem continues with no hope for improvement.
* * *
BRAYAN AVILA (17 months old)
Photo 8. Brayan Ávila: lives in El Pedernal, 1 km from the mine. His mother states that a month ago, small bumps began to appear on Brayan’s skin. Upon scratching, a liquid appeared which upon contact with other parts of his body causes new bumps to emerge. The bumps now cover his entire body. Unable to withstand the pain and itch, Brayan scratches day and night.
* * *
ROSELIN MARIA ARTEAGA (5 years old)
Photo 9. Roselin Maria Arteaga: lives in El Pedernal, 1 km from the mine. She has itchy skin wounds. Her mother states that they started as small pimple-like bumps that, after having scratched herself, increased. Roselin cannot bear the itching caused by these bumps.
* * *
KAROL ANAHI ARTEAGA (2 years old)
Photo 10. Karol Anahi Arteaga: lives 1 km from the mine, in the El Pedernal community. She has an itchy rash all over her body. Her mother has searched for medication but has none has been able to solve Karol’s problem. The medicines cure her momentarily, until the rash again appears.
* * *
CESAR YOHAN COELLO (7 years old)
Photo 11. César Yohan Coello: lives in El Escanito. His house is located 1 km from the mine. He has skin wounds. The rash itches a great deal which leads to his vigorous scratching.
* * *
HENRY DAYOL QUEZADA (9 years old)
Photo 12. Henry Dayol Quezada: lives in El Escanito. The skin on his entire body is discolored, which causes itching.
* * *
NELSON HERNANDEZ (1 year)
Photo 13. Nelson Hernandez: lives 1 km from the mine in El Pedernal. His mother states that Nelson has an itchy skin rash. He scratches during the night. Upon scratching, bumps break open and spread to his entire body.
* * *
ANDRES VELASQUEZ (70 years old)
Photo 14. Andrés Velasquez: affirms that he has lived his entire life in this community and he has never had these health problems, until the mine’s arrival. He suffers from an illness in which his entire body itches.
* * *
ERICA GUADALUPE MARTINEZ (4 years)
Photo 16. Erica Martinez: has a rash on her entire body. Her mother states that her daughter did not have this illness or any problems until the mine arrived. The entire family has skin rashes.
* * *
PEDRO RODRIGUEZ (65 years old)
Photo 18. Pedro Rodriguez: lives in El Pedernal. He has a rash on his entire body. The rash itches so much that he scratches until it bleeds. Pedro affirms that he did not have this illness until the mine’s arrival.
* * *
FRANCISCA CRUZ (54 years old)
Photo 20. Francisca Cruz: has lived in El Escanito her entire life. She said she never had this type of illness. She also mentions that the mine causes a lot of dust in the air.
* * *
WHAT TO DO?
1- TO MAKE TAX-DEDUCTIBLE DONATIONS
for Indigenous and community-based organizations in Guatemala and Honduras resisting the harms caused by large-scale mining “development” projects and implementing their own community development projects, make check payable to "Rights Action" and mail to:
* UNITED STATES: Box 50887, Washington DC, 20091-0887
* CANADA: 552 - 351 Queen St. E, Toronto ON, M5A-1T8
CREDIT-CARD DONATIONS:http://www.rightsaction.org/Templates/donations_index.html
On request: Project proposals for our partner groups.
2- MORE INFORMATION
Read report “Investing in Conflict” about Goldcorp’s operations across the Americas:http://rightsaction.org/Reports/research.pdf.
See film “All That Glitters Isn’t Gold” (http://www.rightsaction.org/video/gold/) that documents health and environmental harms related to Goldcorp’s “San Martin” mine in Honduras.
Go to www.rightsaction.org for further reports, articles and photo-essays.
3- WRITE TO YOUR POLITICIANS, MEDIA, INVESTMENT FUNDS
There is no easy way to help the poor campesinos of the Siria Valley in Honduras (or Mayan Mam villagers in Guatemala) being harmed by these gold mines.
Goldcorp has the full support of the governments of Canada and Guatemala; early on, the World Bank was an investor in and supporter of the “Marlin” mine in Guatemala.
It is fundamental that US and Canadian citizens hold Goldcorp, its investors and shareholders and the American and Canadian governments accountable for the environmental and health harms and human rights violations being caused by Goldcorp in Guatemala, Honduras, and elsewhere.
American and Canadian citizens should write to - and keep on writing to - their politicians, making them aware of these situations, demanding that our governments prioritize global human rights and environmental concerns over global business interests, demanding that our politicians use their power and authority to help hold our corporations accountable if/ when they violate human rights and/or cause environmental and health harms.
Canadians and Americans should write to and keep writing to their own Pension Funds and Investment Brokers – including the Canadian Pension Plan - to find out what types of corporations and businesses they are investing in, to demand that our investors prioritize global human rights and environmental concerns over profits, to insist that investments be withdrawn if/ when profits are being made at the expense of environmental and health harms and/ or human rights violations.
ADDRESSES
Send your own letter to your own politicians, media, the company and your own investment firms or pension fund, demanding a response to your letters of concern and protest about this corporate and investment activity.
GOLDCORP Inc.
info@goldcorp.com; inquiries@cibcmellon.com;hr@goldcorp.com; Directors@Goldcorp.com;info@goldcorp.com; inquiries@cibcmellon.com;jamess@montana.com.gt; lisa.wade@montana.com.gt
GOBIERNO DE CANADA
Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada
Rideau Hall
1 Sussex Drive
Ottawa, ON, K1A-0A1
info@gg.ca
CANADIAN Minister of International Cooperation
Bev Oda
509-S Centre Block
House of Commons
Ottawa, ON, K1A 0A6
Oda.B@parl.gc.ca
CANADIAN Minister of Foreign Affairs
Lawrence Cannon
509-S Centre Block, House of Commons
Ottawa, ON, K1A 0A6
CANADIAN Embassy in Guatemala
Ambassador Leeann McKechnie
leeann.mckechnie@international.gc.ca
Karin Reinecke, Assistant to the Ambassador
karin.reinecke@international.gc.ca
13 Calle 8-44 Zone 10, Edificio Edyma Plaza
Ciudad de Guatemala
E: gtmla@international.gc.ca
FONDO CANADIENSE DE PENSIONES: csr@cppib.ca
* * *
4- SPEAKING TOUR – “On the Road to Goldcorp’s Annual Shareholder Meeting”:
On May 22, 2009, Goldcorp will hold its annual shareholder meeting in Vancouver, BC. Rights Action is organizing a speaking tour in central and eastern Canada with Carlos Amador, of the Siria Valley Environmental Defense Committee, and Francois Guindon, of Rights Action’s office in Guatemala. To host educational events in your community:info@rightsaction.org.
5- MORE INFO
Grahame Russell, 1-860-352-2448 , info@rightsaction.org,www.rightsaction.org
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Background info on Golodcorp in Honduras
Here's some background info on what has brought on the above event:
Protest at Goldcorp's AGM -- tomorrow
From a Mining Watch Canada e-mail altert:
MEDIA ADVISORYMay 18, 2009
MEDIA CONTACTS:
François Guindon, Rights Action: 819-329-0223
Maria Ramos, NISGUA: 202-257-8061
Indigenous and Community Leaders from Guatemala, Honduras and British Columbia to Confront Goldcorp CEO at Shareholder Meeting
Pressure Mounts on Mining Giant Goldcorp Over Human Rights Violations, Environmental Harms, and Questionable Contracts Across the Americas
Interviews in English, French and Spanish, B-Roll, photos of health impacts available upon request.
____________________________________________________________ ________________ jamie@miningwatch.ca
WHAT: Press briefing and rally preceding Goldcorp's (GG) annual shareholders' meeting, with indigenous and community leaders from Honduras and Guatemala and Canadian First Nation.
WHO:
Aniseto Lopez, indigenous Maya Mam leader from the western highlands of Guatemala
Arturo Mendez, indigenous Maya Mam elder from the western highlands of Guatemala
Carlos Amador, environmental and community leader from Honduras
Anne Sam, councillor of the Nak'azdli First Nation in British Columbia
Representatives of a broad coalition of human rights and environmental groups from across Canada and the U.S.
WHEN: 1:30pm, Friday, May 22nd, 2009
WHERE: Outside the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel, 900 Canada Place Way, Vancouver, BC
BACKGROUND:
In what a coalition of indigenous, human rights and environmental organizations from across the Americas has referred to as "business as usual," Canadian gold mining company Goldcorp Inc. will be confronted at their annual shareholders' meeting about the company's failure to address profound human rights and environmental issues at their existing and proposed mines in Honduras, Guatemala and British Columbia.
In Honduras, communities warn of Goldcorp's toxic legacy, as the San Martin Mine is scheduled to close later this year and the company has yet to establish a responsible closure plan that includes clean up of cyanide, arsenic and other toxins in the region and reparations for community members suffering pollution-related health impacts.
Indigenous Mayan communities in Guatemala call on Goldcorp to suspend its open-pit, cyanide-leeching Marlin Mine project, asserting they were never properly consulted, and are already bearing a heavy environmental and health toll.
In the western highlands of Guatemala, indigenous Mayan communities are also contesting Goldcorp's new mining contracts across 14 municipalities, claiming they have not granted their consent. In response, communities have organized popular referenda voting in opposition to mining activities.
Members of the Nak'azdli First Nation contest they have not been consulted about the Goldcorp-supported Teranne Metals Corporation's proposed Shus Nadloh (Mr. Milligan) mine at the head of the Arctic and Rainbow watersheds on Nak'azdli traditional territory and warn of potential environmental damages.
# # #
--
Jamie Kneen
Communications & Outreach Coordinator ofc. (613) 569-3439
MiningWatch Canada cell: (613) 761-2273
250 City Centre Ave., Suite 508 fax: (613) 569-5138
Ottawa, Ontario K1R 6K7 e-mail:
Canada http://www.miningwatch.ca
Skype: jamiekneen
Business & human rights: Weekly update -- May 20, 2009
Weekly Update: Business & Human Rights Resource Centre - 20 May 2009
CLICK THIS LINK FOR ALL TOP STORIES added past 7 days / Principales noticias / Articles de premier plan:
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Categories/ Topstories?date=2009/05/20
Español: ver abajo - Français : voir ci-dessous
* UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues opens with over 2000 participants - considers private sector impacts
- statement by UN Special Representative John Ruggie
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/110284
* Oxford Analytica briefing on John Ruggie's latest report - says it "underlines the urgency" of business & human rights during financial crisis
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/972086
* Al Jazeera English launches 5-part "Corporations on Trial" series, featuring human rights lawsuits against Alstom, Chiquita, ExxonMobil, Green Park Intl & Green Mount Intl, Lapindo Brantas, Trafigura, Veolia
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/939350
* Trafigura sues BBC Newsnight for libel over allegations the firm dumped toxic waste in Côte d'Ivoire
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/932136
* Honduras: NGOs raise concerns of "serious pollution" at Goldcorp's San Martin mine, affecting health of local communities
- Goldcorp response
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/818843
* India: IT companies adopt policy to increase HIV/AIDS awareness among employees, combat discrimination
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/804822
* US Senate report says abusive CIA interrogations were developed by private security firm Mitchell Jessen & Associates
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/880214
* UK & Ireland: Migrant workers vulnerable to exploitation, says Ecumenical Council for Corporate Responsibility
- compares policies & practices of Associated British Foods, Kerry Group, Morrisons, Northern Foods, Sainsbury's, Tesco, Unilever
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/458806
* United Arab Emirates: Human Rights Watch says migrant workers building island development face "severe exploitation"
- institutions planning to open branches on the island (Guggenheim, NYU, Louvre) urged to seek contractual guarantees
- Abu Dhabi govt. rejects the report's findings
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/228552
* New intl. agreement on ship recycling endorsed by over 60 govts. - environmental, labour groups cite gaps
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/532651
* Japan: Online stores stop sales of Illusion Software's rape game following Equality Now campaign (further to last week's Update)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/608513
* UK Parliament Joint Committee inquiry on business & human rights
- new submissions by Corner House, James Cockayne, Prof. Cees van Dam, Vigeo
- responses by Muriel Mining & Rio Tinto re Colombia Solidarity Campaign's submission on the Mandé Norte/Murindó mining project
- previous submissions also available
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Documents/ UKJointCommittee
* UK Parliament Joint Committee to hear oral evidence from John Ruggie, 3 Jun - open to public
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/631200
* Interview with Christine Bader, advisor to John Ruggie
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/955195
* India: Survey of social, environmental activities & reporting by India's 1000 largest companies finds much room for improvement
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/477044
* China: Guangdong Environmental Partnership includes environmental health & safety academy and energy efficiency projects - corporate sponsors include GE, Citigroup, Honeywell, adidas
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/799622
* Financial Times article on diversity on corporate boards - proposes voluntary quota of at least 30% female board members
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/881720
* India: Supreme Court says Vedanta can start mining on land considered sacred by Dongria Kondh tribe
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/219197
* Crew members of Xe/Blackwater's anti-piracy ship allege verbal & physical harrassment, racial discrimination
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/615464
* Liberia: UN hosts workshop on business & human rights
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/803633
* Arab region: "Responsible Competitiveness" report finds progress on rewarding firms that address social, environmental concerns
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/493074
* Economist: Economic downturn providing "stress test" for corporate responsibility - companies are maintaining key initiatives
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/646036
* Verité, CREA: 2nd public comment period on draft standards for social auditors - deadline 30 Jun
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/277247
* Briefing by 6 NGOs for European Parliament Public Hearing on business & human rights
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/409429
* So. Africa: HP launches programme promoting environmental practices in IT industry
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/755774
* Job vacancy: Programmes Coordinator, Institute for Human Rights and Business (London, deadline 5 Jun)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/790572
* Internship vacancy at Avocats Sans Frontières "Globalisation of Justice Programme" (Brussels)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/436742
* Español: España: Estudio sobre el sector de la construcción naval dice que más de 30.000 trabajadores morirán a causa del amianto
- Fallece otro trabajador de una subcontrata de Babcock Wilcox por exposición al amianto
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/388567
* Español: Chile: Presentan libro sobre la presunta responsabilidad del diario El Mercurio en las violaciones a los derechos humanos durante la dictadura
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/663099
* Español: Peru: Indígenas amazónicos acusan a la Armada de realizar un desbloqueo violento para favorecer a Perenco
- FIDH llama a la derogación de los decretos legislativos adoptados en contradicción del Convenio n°169 de la OIT
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/408739
* Español: Argentina: Científico que gatilló investigación sobre efectos en la salud del herbicida glifosato - comercialmente conocido como Roundup, de Monsanto - dice haber recibido amenazas
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/413186
* Español: Costa Rica: Pedirán a CIDH protección para ecologista amenazado por denunciar contaminación de empresas de piña
- Tribunal Ambiental ordena el cierre de finca de Del Monte por contaminación
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/248594
* Español: España: Socios de empresa Robles y Santiago procesados por ocultar accidente laboral admiten cometer fallos pero niegan los delitos
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/509243
* Español: Argentina: Organizaciones de derechos humanos presentan querella por trabajo infantil en campos de ajo
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/452082
* Español: España: El Corte Inglés promoverá la sensibilización contra la violencia de género y facilitará el acceso al trabajo para víctimas
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/164737
* Español: Campaña chilena Patagonia Sin Represas insta a bancos españoles Santander y BBVA a "no transgredir los principios éticos" al financiar HidroAysén
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/712161
* Français : États-Unis: Shell comparaît devant tribunal accusé d'avoir une responsabilité indirecte dans les exécutions de Ken Saro-Wiwa et huit autres
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/974712
* Français : L'ONU appelle les industries minière et pétrolière à respecter les droits des populations autochtones
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/718898
* Français : Briefing de 6 ONG pour l'audience publique du Parlement européen sur les entreprises et les droits de l'homme
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/ Repository/629608
ARCHIVE of past Weekly Updates / ARCHIVO de actualizaciones pasadas / ARCHIVE des Actualités hebdomadaires précédentes:
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Aboutus/ WeeklyUpdatesarchive
http://www.business-
Español: ver abajo - Français : voir ci-dessous
* UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues opens with over 2000 participants - considers private sector impacts
- statement by UN Special Representative John Ruggie
http://www.business-
* Oxford Analytica briefing on John Ruggie's latest report - says it "underlines the urgency" of business & human rights during financial crisis
http://www.business-
* Al Jazeera English launches 5-part "Corporations on Trial" series, featuring human rights lawsuits against Alstom, Chiquita, ExxonMobil, Green Park Intl & Green Mount Intl, Lapindo Brantas, Trafigura, Veolia
http://www.business-
* Trafigura sues BBC Newsnight for libel over allegations the firm dumped toxic waste in Côte d'Ivoire
http://www.business-
* Honduras: NGOs raise concerns of "serious pollution" at Goldcorp's San Martin mine, affecting health of local communities
- Goldcorp response
http://www.business-
* India: IT companies adopt policy to increase HIV/AIDS awareness among employees, combat discrimination
http://www.business-
* US Senate report says abusive CIA interrogations were developed by private security firm Mitchell Jessen & Associates
http://www.business-
* UK & Ireland: Migrant workers vulnerable to exploitation, says Ecumenical Council for Corporate Responsibility
- compares policies & practices of Associated British Foods, Kerry Group, Morrisons, Northern Foods, Sainsbury's, Tesco, Unilever
http://www.business-
* United Arab Emirates: Human Rights Watch says migrant workers building island development face "severe exploitation"
- institutions planning to open branches on the island (Guggenheim, NYU, Louvre) urged to seek contractual guarantees
- Abu Dhabi govt. rejects the report's findings
http://www.business-
* New intl. agreement on ship recycling endorsed by over 60 govts. - environmental, labour groups cite gaps
http://www.business-
* Japan: Online stores stop sales of Illusion Software's rape game following Equality Now campaign (further to last week's Update)
http://www.business-
* UK Parliament Joint Committee inquiry on business & human rights
- new submissions by Corner House, James Cockayne, Prof. Cees van Dam, Vigeo
- responses by Muriel Mining & Rio Tinto re Colombia Solidarity Campaign's submission on the Mandé Norte/Murindó mining project
- previous submissions also available
http://www.business-
* UK Parliament Joint Committee to hear oral evidence from John Ruggie, 3 Jun - open to public
http://www.business-
* Interview with Christine Bader, advisor to John Ruggie
http://www.business-
* India: Survey of social, environmental activities & reporting by India's 1000 largest companies finds much room for improvement
http://www.business-
* China: Guangdong Environmental Partnership includes environmental health & safety academy and energy efficiency projects - corporate sponsors include GE, Citigroup, Honeywell, adidas
http://www.business-
* Financial Times article on diversity on corporate boards - proposes voluntary quota of at least 30% female board members
http://www.business-
* India: Supreme Court says Vedanta can start mining on land considered sacred by Dongria Kondh tribe
http://www.business-
* Crew members of Xe/Blackwater's anti-piracy ship allege verbal & physical harrassment, racial discrimination
http://www.business-
* Liberia: UN hosts workshop on business & human rights
http://www.business-
* Arab region: "Responsible Competitiveness" report finds progress on rewarding firms that address social, environmental concerns
http://www.business-
* Economist: Economic downturn providing "stress test" for corporate responsibility - companies are maintaining key initiatives
http://www.business-
* Verité, CREA: 2nd public comment period on draft standards for social auditors - deadline 30 Jun
http://www.business-
* Briefing by 6 NGOs for European Parliament Public Hearing on business & human rights
http://www.business-
* So. Africa: HP launches programme promoting environmental practices in IT industry
http://www.business-
* Job vacancy: Programmes Coordinator, Institute for Human Rights and Business (London, deadline 5 Jun)
http://www.business-
* Internship vacancy at Avocats Sans Frontières "Globalisation of Justice Programme" (Brussels)
http://www.business-
* Español: España: Estudio sobre el sector de la construcción naval dice que más de 30.000 trabajadores morirán a causa del amianto
- Fallece otro trabajador de una subcontrata de Babcock Wilcox por exposición al amianto
http://www.business-
* Español: Chile: Presentan libro sobre la presunta responsabilidad del diario El Mercurio en las violaciones a los derechos humanos durante la dictadura
http://www.business-
* Español: Peru: Indígenas amazónicos acusan a la Armada de realizar un desbloqueo violento para favorecer a Perenco
- FIDH llama a la derogación de los decretos legislativos adoptados en contradicción del Convenio n°169 de la OIT
http://www.business-
* Español: Argentina: Científico que gatilló investigación sobre efectos en la salud del herbicida glifosato - comercialmente conocido como Roundup, de Monsanto - dice haber recibido amenazas
http://www.business-
* Español: Costa Rica: Pedirán a CIDH protección para ecologista amenazado por denunciar contaminación de empresas de piña
- Tribunal Ambiental ordena el cierre de finca de Del Monte por contaminación
http://www.business-
* Español: España: Socios de empresa Robles y Santiago procesados por ocultar accidente laboral admiten cometer fallos pero niegan los delitos
http://www.business-
* Español: Argentina: Organizaciones de derechos humanos presentan querella por trabajo infantil en campos de ajo
http://www.business-
* Español: España: El Corte Inglés promoverá la sensibilización contra la violencia de género y facilitará el acceso al trabajo para víctimas
http://www.business-
* Español: Campaña chilena Patagonia Sin Represas insta a bancos españoles Santander y BBVA a "no transgredir los principios éticos" al financiar HidroAysén
http://www.business-
* Français : États-Unis: Shell comparaît devant tribunal accusé d'avoir une responsabilité indirecte dans les exécutions de Ken Saro-Wiwa et huit autres
http://www.business-
* Français : L'ONU appelle les industries minière et pétrolière à respecter les droits des populations autochtones
http://www.business-
* Français : Briefing de 6 ONG pour l'audience publique du Parlement européen sur les entreprises et les droits de l'homme
http://www.business-
ARCHIVE of past Weekly Updates / ARCHIVO de actualizaciones pasadas / ARCHIVE des Actualités hebdomadaires précédentes:
http://www.business-
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Business & human rights: Weekly Update - May 13, 2009
Weekly Update: Business & Human Rights Resource Centre - 13 May 2009
CLICK THIS LINK FOR ALL TOP STORIES added past 7 days / Principales noticias / Articles de premier plan:
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Categories/Topstories?date=2009/05/13
Español: ver abajo - Français : voir ci-dessous
* Panel discussion on workplace racial discrimination & diversity, United Nations, Geneva, 22 Apr
- co-organized by Office of UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Business & Human Rights Resource Centre
- text of presentations: OHCHR, ILO, Nedbank, Novo Nordisk, Danish Institute, Equality & Human Rights Commission (UK), Business & Human Rights Resource Centre
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Documents/Workplacepanel
* Statement by Asian civil society groups to UN Special Representative John Ruggie, following regional consultation in Delhi
- response by John Ruggie
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/466814
* Japan: Equality Now calls on Illusion Software to withdraw video game with simulated rape
- AFP article with company response
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/368058
* UK Parliament Joint Committee inquiry on business & human rights:
- new submissions by ActionAid, Amnesty UK, Bonita Meyersfeld, Business in the Community, Colombia Solidarity Campaign, EarthRights, Institute for Human Rights & Business, Intl. Business Leaders Forum, Leigh Day & Co, Oxfam GB, Sir Geoffrey Chandler, Synergy Global Consulting, War on Want, Working Group on Mining in the Philippines
- previous submissions also available
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Documents/UKJointCommittee
* "The cost of coercion": ILO report on forced labour worldwide
- says economic crisis may inhibit efforts to combat it
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/135369
* UK: Prudential first mainstream insurer to offer life coverage for people with HIV
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/164275
* Australian engineering firm Downer EDI pulls its subsidiary CPG out of Burma - CPG was working on airport that NGOs say is being built with forced labour
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/861609
* Armenia: NGOs protest against VTB Bank for funding planned copper project, alleging it will harm health, environment
- comments by company included
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/526302
* Ghana: Development NGOs concerned by Barclays' role in new tax haven - say it could exacerbate poverty in W. Africa
- article includes comments by Barclays
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/554292
* Invitation for UK companies to take part in Ministry of Justice survey on business & human rights (deadline 29 May)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/830696
* USA: Prison firm Geo Group (formerly Wackenhut Corrections) to pay $42.5 million for prisoner's beating death
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/244045
* Burma: Report on widespread abuses along gas pipeline operated by state-run Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprise; pipeline begins at Total Pipeline Center
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/619477
* Central & Eastern Europe: Survey shows increase in social, environmental reporting by companies
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/104213
* Bahrain to end sponsorship system for migrant workers, which human rights groups say allows exploitation by employers
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/421154
* USA: Large fund managers such as TIAA-CREF, T. Rowe Price, Vanguard paying increasing attention to human rights
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/928278
* Intl. coalition of investors endorses US "Employee Free Choice Act" to facilitate forming & joining unions
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/645438
* UK: Gangmasters Licensing Authority launches consultation on protocol to combat labour exploitation
- Protocol developed through discussions with ASDA/Wal-Mart, Co-operative, Iceland/Big Food, Marks & Spencer, Morrisons, Sainsbury, Tesco, Waitrose
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/286508
* Dell adopts e-waste policy - says "any non-functioning electronics will not be exported to developing countries for recycling"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/246021
* New book: "SA8000: The First Decade - Implementation, Influence, and Impact"
- Book has case studies on Chiquita, Gap, Gucci, Otto, Tata Steel, TNT
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/289391
* Forthcoming seminar, Sydney, 21 May: "Corporate responsibility: failed rhetoric or future remedy?" - focus on business & human rights
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/973975
* Español: Perú: Survival dice que Perupetro niega la existencia de indígenas no contactados para justificar exploraciones
- Invitamos a Perupetro a responder pero no lo hizo
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/393871
* Español: Argentina: Vecinos de Magdalena decidirán sobre oferta de Shell de pagar US$9,5 millones por impactos de derrame de crudo
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/134266
* Español: Activista guatemalteco Dr. Yuri Melini recibe premio Front Line por su lucha contra el "daño ambiental" causado por la minería
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/649988
* Español: Pfizer colabora con ONG Medicines for Malaria Venture en la investigación del tratamiento contra la malaria
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/585926
* Español: Chile & Argentina: Barrick Gold iniciará construcción del proyecto minero Pascua Lama
- líderes comunitarios dicen que el proyecto no tiene "licencia social"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/564253
* Español: Nicaragua: Vecinos acusan a Plásticos Modernos ante Procuraduría por gases tóxicos que han "causado patologías"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/843235
* Français : Dole accusée devant la justice américaine d'implication dans des assassinats en Colombie pour avoir financé les paramilitaires
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/579157
* Français : Un nouveau rapport global du BIT sur le travail forcé - «Le coût de la coercition»
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/163933
* Français : Côte d'Ivoire : MTN soutient la lutte contre la pauvreté rurale à travers un programme du PNUD visant les femmes
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/243040
ARCHIVE of past Weekly Updates / ARCHIVO de actualizaciones pasadas / ARCHIVE des Actualités hebdomadaires précédentes:
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Aboutus/WeeklyUpdatesarchive
CLICK THIS LINK FOR ALL TOP STORIES added past 7 days / Principales noticias / Articles de premier plan:
http://www.business-
Español: ver abajo - Français : voir ci-dessous
* Panel discussion on workplace racial discrimination & diversity, United Nations, Geneva, 22 Apr
- co-organized by Office of UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Business & Human Rights Resource Centre
- text of presentations: OHCHR, ILO, Nedbank, Novo Nordisk, Danish Institute, Equality & Human Rights Commission (UK), Business & Human Rights Resource Centre
http://www.business-
* Statement by Asian civil society groups to UN Special Representative John Ruggie, following regional consultation in Delhi
- response by John Ruggie
http://www.business-
* Japan: Equality Now calls on Illusion Software to withdraw video game with simulated rape
- AFP article with company response
http://www.business-
* UK Parliament Joint Committee inquiry on business & human rights:
- new submissions by ActionAid, Amnesty UK, Bonita Meyersfeld, Business in the Community, Colombia Solidarity Campaign, EarthRights, Institute for Human Rights & Business, Intl. Business Leaders Forum, Leigh Day & Co, Oxfam GB, Sir Geoffrey Chandler, Synergy Global Consulting, War on Want, Working Group on Mining in the Philippines
- previous submissions also available
http://www.business-
* "The cost of coercion": ILO report on forced labour worldwide
- says economic crisis may inhibit efforts to combat it
http://www.business-
* UK: Prudential first mainstream insurer to offer life coverage for people with HIV
http://www.business-
* Australian engineering firm Downer EDI pulls its subsidiary CPG out of Burma - CPG was working on airport that NGOs say is being built with forced labour
http://www.business-
* Armenia: NGOs protest against VTB Bank for funding planned copper project, alleging it will harm health, environment
- comments by company included
http://www.business-
* Ghana: Development NGOs concerned by Barclays' role in new tax haven - say it could exacerbate poverty in W. Africa
- article includes comments by Barclays
http://www.business-
* Invitation for UK companies to take part in Ministry of Justice survey on business & human rights (deadline 29 May)
http://www.business-
* USA: Prison firm Geo Group (formerly Wackenhut Corrections) to pay $42.5 million for prisoner's beating death
http://www.business-
* Burma: Report on widespread abuses along gas pipeline operated by state-run Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprise; pipeline begins at Total Pipeline Center
http://www.business-
* Central & Eastern Europe: Survey shows increase in social, environmental reporting by companies
http://www.business-
* Bahrain to end sponsorship system for migrant workers, which human rights groups say allows exploitation by employers
http://www.business-
* USA: Large fund managers such as TIAA-CREF, T. Rowe Price, Vanguard paying increasing attention to human rights
http://www.business-
* Intl. coalition of investors endorses US "Employee Free Choice Act" to facilitate forming & joining unions
http://www.business-
* UK: Gangmasters Licensing Authority launches consultation on protocol to combat labour exploitation
- Protocol developed through discussions with ASDA/Wal-Mart, Co-operative, Iceland/Big Food, Marks & Spencer, Morrisons, Sainsbury, Tesco, Waitrose
http://www.business-
* Dell adopts e-waste policy - says "any non-functioning electronics will not be exported to developing countries for recycling"
http://www.business-
* New book: "SA8000: The First Decade - Implementation, Influence, and Impact"
- Book has case studies on Chiquita, Gap, Gucci, Otto, Tata Steel, TNT
http://www.business-
* Forthcoming seminar, Sydney, 21 May: "Corporate responsibility: failed rhetoric or future remedy?" - focus on business & human rights
http://www.business-
* Español: Perú: Survival dice que Perupetro niega la existencia de indígenas no contactados para justificar exploraciones
- Invitamos a Perupetro a responder pero no lo hizo
http://www.business-
* Español: Argentina: Vecinos de Magdalena decidirán sobre oferta de Shell de pagar US$9,5 millones por impactos de derrame de crudo
http://www.business-
* Español: Activista guatemalteco Dr. Yuri Melini recibe premio Front Line por su lucha contra el "daño ambiental" causado por la minería
http://www.business-
* Español: Pfizer colabora con ONG Medicines for Malaria Venture en la investigación del tratamiento contra la malaria
http://www.business-
* Español: Chile & Argentina: Barrick Gold iniciará construcción del proyecto minero Pascua Lama
- líderes comunitarios dicen que el proyecto no tiene "licencia social"
http://www.business-
* Español: Nicaragua: Vecinos acusan a Plásticos Modernos ante Procuraduría por gases tóxicos que han "causado patologías"
http://www.business-
* Français : Dole accusée devant la justice américaine d'implication dans des assassinats en Colombie pour avoir financé les paramilitaires
http://www.business-
* Français : Un nouveau rapport global du BIT sur le travail forcé - «Le coût de la coercition»
http://www.business-
* Français : Côte d'Ivoire : MTN soutient la lutte contre la pauvreté rurale à travers un programme du PNUD visant les femmes
http://www.business-
ARCHIVE of past Weekly Updates / ARCHIVO de actualizaciones pasadas / ARCHIVE des Actualités hebdomadaires précédentes:
http://www.business-
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Amnesty International: Forced Evictions in Porgera Mining Area
From Fiona at Amnesty, on forced evictions near a mine operated by Barrick Gold:
Amnesty International calls for immediate action to protect more than 1,000 people who have been left homeless after police officials in Papua New Guinea forcibly evicted them by burning down their homes.On 27 April 2009 police officials burned down 50 houses within the Porgera mining area, owned and operated by Canadian-based Barrick Gold Corporation.
More than 200 police had been sent to the area as part of an operation to deal with the law and order situation in Porgera District, Enga Province. The police alleged that people living in these homes were squatters responsible for illegal mining and other criminal activities. A further 300 houses of villagers living near the mine are also reported to have been burnt down as part of the same operations.
According to reports received by Amnesty International, these evictions were carried out in breach of international law, without giving prior and adequate notice, and without consultation with those affected. The families have not been provided with any alternative accommodation.
Papua New Guinea is under an obligation under international human rights standards to only carry out evictions as a last resort, and to explore all feasible alternatives to evictions to avoid or minimise the use of force. Forced evictions are recognised as a gross violation of human rights and should never be used as a punitive measure.
Moreover the company operating the mine and governments should abide by internationally recognised Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights that give clear guidance to both companies and governments about the use of security. Both the company responsible for the mine, Barrick, and the PNG government need to act on these standards and ensure the protection of people’s human rights.
There are fears that more homes may be destroyed as Internal Security Minister Sani Rambi has reportedly attempted to extend the police deployment in the province for a longer period.
Amnesty International urges:
• The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary to immediately stop the forced eviction of people in the Porgera Valley and the destruction of their properties.
• The Papua New Guinea government to carry out a full and independent investigation into the forced evictions and the manner in which they were carried out and bring those responsible to justice. The authorities also need to ensure that all victims of the forced evictions receive adequate reparation, including adequate alternative accommodation and compensation.
• The PNG government to immediately ensure that all victims of forced evictions are provided with emergency relief including shelter, food, water and access to medical assistance.
• The PNG government and Barrick Gold Corporation to prioritise the needs of villagers within the mine area and work to ensure a fair process for relocation with appropriate and adequate compensation.
• The Canadian Government, which recently became engaged in the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights, to insist that Barrick Gold Corporation implement those principles and assist the company to do so.
• Barrick Gold Corporation to apply the principles set out in the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights.Background
Forced evictions are evictions that are carried out without adequate notice or consultation with those affected, without legal safeguards and without assurances of adequate alternative accommodation. They are defined by the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights as “the permanent or temporary removal against their will of individuals, families and/or communities from the homes and/or land which they occupy, without the provision of, and access to, appropriate forms of legal or other protection. As a party to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and other international human rights treaties which prohibit forced eviction and related human rights violations, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), Papua New Guinea has an obligation to stop forced evictions and to protect the population from forced evictions.Barrick Gold Corporation and Porgera
Barrick Gold Corporation is a Canadian mining company and the largest producer of gold in the world, with 27 mines in operation. Through its subsidiary, Barrick operates the Porgera gold mine in Papua New Guinea and owns 95% of the mine, which in 2008 produced 627,000 ounces of gold (gold prices averaged US$871 per ounce in 2008). Barrick took over the Porgera mine in 2006 through the acquisition of the prior operator, Placer Dome.
There are a number of villages within the mine area, which covers some 2,350 hectares of land. The Porgera Landowners Association, which represents the approximately 10,000 indigenous residents living within the mine area, has called for a fair relocation process for the residents.Many locals look for gold in the tailings, waste rock piles, or the open pit of the mine. Locals claim that they practiced alluvial gold mining before the mine operation began, that it was a legal and important source of income, and that they continue to mine due to poverty and lack of land for subsistence farming. The locals’ gold mining is considered illegal by Barrick, as it occurs within the company’s Special Mine Lease area. This tension has been the source of conflict at the mine site. Since commencing operation in 1990, the mine has been associated with several violent deaths. The mine has also been heavily criticised for the impacts of its environmental practices. On 30 January 2009, the Norwegian Government Pension Fund excluded Barrick from its investment portfolio for “causing severe environmental damages as a direct result of its operations”.
The Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights
The governments of the United States, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Norway, companies in the extractive and energy sectors ("Companies"), and non-governmental organizations ("NGOs"), all with an interest in human rights and corporate social responsibility, developed these principles to guide companies in maintaining the safety and security of their operations within an operating framework that ensures respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Since March 2009, the Canadian government has committed to promoting implementation of the Principles as part of the government’s strategy for the Canadian extractive sector operating outside of Canada.
The Principles state that:
• Companies should use their influence to promote the following principles with public security: (b) force should be used only when strictly necessary and to an extent proportional to the threat; and (c) the rights of individuals should not be violated
• In cases where physical force is used by public security, such incidents should be reported to the appropriate authorities and to the Company. Where force is used, medical aid should be provided to injured persons, including to offenders.AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC STATEMENT - Papua New Guinea: Forced Evictions and destruction of property by Police in Porgera must end
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Business & human rights: Weekly Update - May 6, 2009
Weekly Update: Business & Human Rights Resource Centre - 6 May 2009
Español: ver abajo - Français : voir ci-dessous
* UK Parliament Joint Committee inquiry on business & human rights - submissions by:
- Corporate Responsibility (CORE) Coalition & London School of Economics
- Rights & Accountability in Development
- Richard Hermer QC, Doughty Street Chambers
- Business for Social Responsibility
- Business & Human Rights Resource Centre
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Documents/UKJointCommittee
* Report from John Ruggie to UN Human Rights Council: "Business and human rights: Towards operationalizing the 'protect, respect and remedy' framework"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/715771
* New summary profile: Jeppesen lawsuit (re extraordinary rendition flights)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/489842
* NGOs raise concerns about Rio Tinto's social & environmental impacts at its annual general meeting
- Rio Tinto response
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/269440
* Publish What You Pay welcomes Rio Tinto's decision to publish payments it makes to 13 governments
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/780629
* UK: Children's treatment at immigration detention centre run by Serco is "shameful", says Children's Commissioner report
- Serco response
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/969984
* Lawsuit in USA against Dole over alleged payments to Colombian paramilitaries who "killed thousands"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/848059
* Vietnam: Human Rights Watch documents govt. crackdown on independent trade unions
- makes recommendations to foreign companies in Vietnam
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/674731
* USA: DiversityInc top 10 companies for people with disabilities - top 5: Cisco, Ernst & Young, IBM, Kaiser Permanente, Procter & Gamble
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/600363
* "Amazon Crude": CBS 60 Minutes documentary on lawsuit against Chevron over pollution & health impacts in Ecuador
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/659755
* EarthRights says to oil firms that new investment in Burma poses "huge risks"; corporate responsibility programmes there are "impossible"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/546005
* Zambian President says employers should not use economic downturn as excuse to abuse fundamental labour rights
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/677435
* Israeli human rights org. brings lawsuit against mining companies operating in West Bank quarries, supplying settlement construction
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/765383
* Yahoo! hosts business & human rights "summit" on freedom of expression - participants include human rights orgs., Google, Microsoft
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/620628
* Halliburton, KBR sued in USA for alleged health impacts of garbage burning on US bases in Iraq & Afghanistan
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/611912
* USA: Florida farmworkers: Compass subsidiary Bon Appétit & Coalition of Immokalee Workers form agreement on working conditions - company plans to boycott growers that do not participate
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/257100
* Lebanon: NGO says disabled face widespread discrimination by employers
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/694844
* India: Goa "cursed by its mineral wealth"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/245832
* Wiwa v Shell: US judge denies Shell's motion to dismiss lawsuit over 1995 execution of Nigerian activists
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/266835
* Green America project to get more shareholders engaged on climate change, human rights, other issues
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/386869
* "Leading Perspectives" publication on business & human rights, Business for Social Responsibility
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/214165
* Round table on improving labour standards in the global electronics industry (7-8 May, Amsterdam)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/716751
* Event: Launch of ECCR report "Vulnerable Migrant Workers: The Responsibility of Business" (London, 28 May)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/292227
* Call for proposals for new book series on responsible investment - editor Dr Rory Sullivan (Insight Investment)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/147239
* Español: Según demanda en EE.UU., Dole financió paramilitares en Colombia acusados de asesinar a miles de personas
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/435164
* Español: Bolivia: ONG denuncia concesiones petroleras en el Amazonas, pidiendo al gobierno "respetar" la Constitución que manda proteger a indígenas
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/167819
* Español: Libro completo: "¿Pueden las empresas contribuir a los Objetivos de Desarrollo del Milenio?" - incluye ejemplos positivos de empresas
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/543444
* Español: Argentina: Manpower continuará con actividades que favorecen la inclusión laboral de mujeres en situación de cárcel
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/402525
* Español: Honduras: Gildan informa a sus empleados sobre salud ocupacional, seguridad y VIH/SIDA
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/696569
* Français : Maroc : Terrains de golf en croissance - leur consommation d'eau en prive les consommateurs & les agriculteurs, selon des ONG
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/800679
* Français : Vietnam : Human Rights Watch dénonce la répression du syndicalisme indépendant
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/804779
* Français : Nestlé annonce trois nouvelles initiatives, dont un programme mondial d'éducation sur la nutrition & la santé en coopération avec l'ONU
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/460692
* Français : Gabon : AREVA va évaluer et surveiller l'impact sanitaire et environnemental de ses anciennes activités minières à Mounana
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/191859
ARCHIVE of past Weekly Updates / ARCHIVO de actualizaciones pasadas / ARCHIVE des Actualités hebdomadaires précédentes:
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Aboutus/WeeklyUpdatesarchive
Español: ver abajo - Français : voir ci-dessous
* UK Parliament Joint Committee inquiry on business & human rights - submissions by:
- Corporate Responsibility (CORE) Coalition & London School of Economics
- Rights & Accountability in Development
- Richard Hermer QC, Doughty Street Chambers
- Business for Social Responsibility
- Business & Human Rights Resource Centre
http://www.business-
* Report from John Ruggie to UN Human Rights Council: "Business and human rights: Towards operationalizing the 'protect, respect and remedy' framework"
http://www.business-
* New summary profile: Jeppesen lawsuit (re extraordinary rendition flights)
http://www.business-
* NGOs raise concerns about Rio Tinto's social & environmental impacts at its annual general meeting
- Rio Tinto response
http://www.business-
* Publish What You Pay welcomes Rio Tinto's decision to publish payments it makes to 13 governments
http://www.business-
* UK: Children's treatment at immigration detention centre run by Serco is "shameful", says Children's Commissioner report
- Serco response
http://www.business-
* Lawsuit in USA against Dole over alleged payments to Colombian paramilitaries who "killed thousands"
http://www.business-
* Vietnam: Human Rights Watch documents govt. crackdown on independent trade unions
- makes recommendations to foreign companies in Vietnam
http://www.business-
* USA: DiversityInc top 10 companies for people with disabilities - top 5: Cisco, Ernst & Young, IBM, Kaiser Permanente, Procter & Gamble
http://www.business-
* "Amazon Crude": CBS 60 Minutes documentary on lawsuit against Chevron over pollution & health impacts in Ecuador
http://www.business-
* EarthRights says to oil firms that new investment in Burma poses "huge risks"; corporate responsibility programmes there are "impossible"
http://www.business-
* Zambian President says employers should not use economic downturn as excuse to abuse fundamental labour rights
http://www.business-
* Israeli human rights org. brings lawsuit against mining companies operating in West Bank quarries, supplying settlement construction
http://www.business-
* Yahoo! hosts business & human rights "summit" on freedom of expression - participants include human rights orgs., Google, Microsoft
http://www.business-
* Halliburton, KBR sued in USA for alleged health impacts of garbage burning on US bases in Iraq & Afghanistan
http://www.business-
* USA: Florida farmworkers: Compass subsidiary Bon Appétit & Coalition of Immokalee Workers form agreement on working conditions - company plans to boycott growers that do not participate
http://www.business-
* Lebanon: NGO says disabled face widespread discrimination by employers
http://www.business-
* India: Goa "cursed by its mineral wealth"
http://www.business-
* Wiwa v Shell: US judge denies Shell's motion to dismiss lawsuit over 1995 execution of Nigerian activists
http://www.business-
* Green America project to get more shareholders engaged on climate change, human rights, other issues
http://www.business-
* "Leading Perspectives" publication on business & human rights, Business for Social Responsibility
http://www.business-
* Round table on improving labour standards in the global electronics industry (7-8 May, Amsterdam)
http://www.business-
* Event: Launch of ECCR report "Vulnerable Migrant Workers: The Responsibility of Business" (London, 28 May)
http://www.business-
* Call for proposals for new book series on responsible investment - editor Dr Rory Sullivan (Insight Investment)
http://www.business-
* Español: Según demanda en EE.UU., Dole financió paramilitares en Colombia acusados de asesinar a miles de personas
http://www.business-
* Español: Bolivia: ONG denuncia concesiones petroleras en el Amazonas, pidiendo al gobierno "respetar" la Constitución que manda proteger a indígenas
http://www.business-
* Español: Libro completo: "¿Pueden las empresas contribuir a los Objetivos de Desarrollo del Milenio?" - incluye ejemplos positivos de empresas
http://www.business-
* Español: Argentina: Manpower continuará con actividades que favorecen la inclusión laboral de mujeres en situación de cárcel
http://www.business-
* Español: Honduras: Gildan informa a sus empleados sobre salud ocupacional, seguridad y VIH/SIDA
http://www.business-
* Français : Maroc : Terrains de golf en croissance - leur consommation d'eau en prive les consommateurs & les agriculteurs, selon des ONG
http://www.business-
* Français : Vietnam : Human Rights Watch dénonce la répression du syndicalisme indépendant
http://www.business-
* Français : Nestlé annonce trois nouvelles initiatives, dont un programme mondial d'éducation sur la nutrition & la santé en coopération avec l'ONU
http://www.business-
* Français : Gabon : AREVA va évaluer et surveiller l'impact sanitaire et environnemental de ses anciennes activités minières à Mounana
http://www.business-
ARCHIVE of past Weekly Updates / ARCHIVO de actualizaciones pasadas / ARCHIVE des Actualités hebdomadaires précédentes:
http://www.business-
Friday, May 1, 2009
Business & human rights: Weekly Update - April 29, 2009
Weekly Update: Business & Human Rights Resource Centre - 29 Apr 2009
CLICK THIS LINK FOR ALL TOP STORIES added past 7 days / Principales noticias / Articles de premier plan:
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Categories/Topstories?date=2009/04/29
Español: ver abajo - Français : voir ci-dessous
* UN High Commissioner for Human Rights seeks govt. responses to John Ruggie survey on state corporate social responsibility policies
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/487579
* US appeals court rules lawsuit against Boeing subsidiary by former captives of CIA over "torture flights" can proceed
- with full text of opinion
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/860083
* New report by Chiquita describes how, why it made payments to Colombian paramilitaries
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/912315
* China: NGOs say Excelsior Electronics and buyer Fujitsu Siemens provided weak responses to report of factory labour abuses
- responses by Fujitsu Siemens, Excelsior
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/169298
* Vietnam: UNICEF and IKEA project supports education for ethnic minorities
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/159880
* UK Govt. launches public consultation on private military & security companies - proposes industry self-regulation based on code of conduct (deadline for submissions: 17 Jul)
- Guardian article includes comments by Amnesty, Red Cross
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/483587
* China: ITT initiative improves water access & sanitation in schools
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/882097
* Pacific Rim Mining brings arbitration action against El Salvador over delay of gold-mining permits - activists say mine would pollute water
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/297783
* India: Dam collapse kills 12 workers - lawsuit brought against dam developer, Gati Infrastructure
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/435418
* Jordan: National Council for Family Affairs finds continued gender discrimination in the workplace - urges awareness-raising, legal reforms
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/225881
* UK: New Equalities Bill will include compulsory "gender pay audits" to shame firms that pay women less than men
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/609531
* Conference agenda: "Red Flags: corporate respect for human rights in high risk zones" (Zürich, 30 Apr)
- opening speech by Ambassador Thomas Greminger, Swiss Govt.
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/294468
* India: Silencing bloggers is "losing strategy" for Indian companies - commentary by Salil Tripathi
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/568856
* World Day for Safety and Health at Work, 28 April - ILO says 5500 workers dying each day
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/622910
* Op-ed on gender issues & the economic downturn (Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Mary Robinson)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/310949
* USA: Judge rules Nigerian villagers will not have to pay Chevron's trial fees
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/678576
* World Business Council for Sustainable Development says issues of water, energy & climate change should be tackled together
- full report includes positive examples from companies
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/425914
* Job announcement: Development Director, Business & Human Rights Resource Centre (deadline 10 Jun)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Documents/DevDirector
* Español: Oficina del Alto Comisionado de la ONU para los Derechos Humanos solicita respuestas de gobiernos a una encuesta de John Ruggie sobre políticas estatales de Responsabilidad Social Empresarial
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/273265
* Español: Perú: Ministerio de Trabajo multa a más de 160 empresas por "vulnerar los derechos laborales"
- Listado de las empresas infractoras
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/313791
* Español: Invitan a seminario sobre mercenarios y compañías militares y de seguridad privadas en América Latina (Bogotá, Colombia, 7-8 de mayo)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/953552
* Español: Argentina: Vecinos acusan a Barrick Gold y funcionarios de "agredir" a ambientalistas que protestaban
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/544200
* Español: Ecuador entrega en La Haya argumentos jurídicos contra Colombia por fumigaciones que afectaron la salud - químico fue fabricado por Monsanto
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/784004
* Español: EEUU: Centros de salud deberán pagar a trabajadores hispanos que denunciaron discriminación por hablar español
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/434527
* Español: Brasil: Advierten sobre potencial impacto ambiental y en los indígenas de represa Belo Monte - Electrobras asegura impacto sería mínimo
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/619062
* Español: Colombia: Cerrejón crea 4 fundaciones "focalizadas en temas claves para La Guajira: empleo, agua, los Wayuu y regalías"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/778415
* Français : Le Haut Commissariat des Nations Unies pour les Droits de l'Homme invite les gouvernements à répondre à un questionnaire du Représentant spécial John Ruggie sur les politiques de RSE
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/899460
* Français : EDF accusé d'avoir commandité la surveillance de Greenpeace France - 2 hauts responsables suspendus
- EDF également accusé d'avoir espionné Greenpeace au Royaume-Uni
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/146082
* Français : Angola : Chevron Afrique annonce $500 mille pour un hôpital pédiatrique & aidera le gouvernement à lutter contre le Vih & le paludisme
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/753805
* Français : Film "Total Denial" sur Total & Unocal en Birmanie - projection le 14 mai 2009, Liège, Belgique
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/595871
ARCHIVE of past Weekly Updates / ARCHIVO de actualizaciones pasadas / ARCHIVE des Actualités hebdomadaires précédentes:
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Aboutus/WeeklyUpdatesarchive
CLICK THIS LINK FOR ALL TOP STORIES added past 7 days / Principales noticias / Articles de premier plan:
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Categories/Topstories?date=2009/04/29
Español: ver abajo - Français : voir ci-dessous
* UN High Commissioner for Human Rights seeks govt. responses to John Ruggie survey on state corporate social responsibility policies
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/487579
* US appeals court rules lawsuit against Boeing subsidiary by former captives of CIA over "torture flights" can proceed
- with full text of opinion
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/860083
* New report by Chiquita describes how, why it made payments to Colombian paramilitaries
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/912315
* China: NGOs say Excelsior Electronics and buyer Fujitsu Siemens provided weak responses to report of factory labour abuses
- responses by Fujitsu Siemens, Excelsior
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/169298
* Vietnam: UNICEF and IKEA project supports education for ethnic minorities
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/159880
* UK Govt. launches public consultation on private military & security companies - proposes industry self-regulation based on code of conduct (deadline for submissions: 17 Jul)
- Guardian article includes comments by Amnesty, Red Cross
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/483587
* China: ITT initiative improves water access & sanitation in schools
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/882097
* Pacific Rim Mining brings arbitration action against El Salvador over delay of gold-mining permits - activists say mine would pollute water
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/297783
* India: Dam collapse kills 12 workers - lawsuit brought against dam developer, Gati Infrastructure
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/435418
* Jordan: National Council for Family Affairs finds continued gender discrimination in the workplace - urges awareness-raising, legal reforms
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/225881
* UK: New Equalities Bill will include compulsory "gender pay audits" to shame firms that pay women less than men
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/609531
* Conference agenda: "Red Flags: corporate respect for human rights in high risk zones" (Zürich, 30 Apr)
- opening speech by Ambassador Thomas Greminger, Swiss Govt.
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/294468
* India: Silencing bloggers is "losing strategy" for Indian companies - commentary by Salil Tripathi
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/568856
* World Day for Safety and Health at Work, 28 April - ILO says 5500 workers dying each day
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/622910
* Op-ed on gender issues & the economic downturn (Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Mary Robinson)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/310949
* USA: Judge rules Nigerian villagers will not have to pay Chevron's trial fees
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/678576
* World Business Council for Sustainable Development says issues of water, energy & climate change should be tackled together
- full report includes positive examples from companies
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/425914
* Job announcement: Development Director, Business & Human Rights Resource Centre (deadline 10 Jun)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Documents/DevDirector
* Español: Oficina del Alto Comisionado de la ONU para los Derechos Humanos solicita respuestas de gobiernos a una encuesta de John Ruggie sobre políticas estatales de Responsabilidad Social Empresarial
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/273265
* Español: Perú: Ministerio de Trabajo multa a más de 160 empresas por "vulnerar los derechos laborales"
- Listado de las empresas infractoras
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/313791
* Español: Invitan a seminario sobre mercenarios y compañías militares y de seguridad privadas en América Latina (Bogotá, Colombia, 7-8 de mayo)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/953552
* Español: Argentina: Vecinos acusan a Barrick Gold y funcionarios de "agredir" a ambientalistas que protestaban
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/544200
* Español: Ecuador entrega en La Haya argumentos jurídicos contra Colombia por fumigaciones que afectaron la salud - químico fue fabricado por Monsanto
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/784004
* Español: EEUU: Centros de salud deberán pagar a trabajadores hispanos que denunciaron discriminación por hablar español
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/434527
* Español: Brasil: Advierten sobre potencial impacto ambiental y en los indígenas de represa Belo Monte - Electrobras asegura impacto sería mínimo
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/619062
* Español: Colombia: Cerrejón crea 4 fundaciones "focalizadas en temas claves para La Guajira: empleo, agua, los Wayuu y regalías"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/778415
* Français : Le Haut Commissariat des Nations Unies pour les Droits de l'Homme invite les gouvernements à répondre à un questionnaire du Représentant spécial John Ruggie sur les politiques de RSE
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/899460
* Français : EDF accusé d'avoir commandité la surveillance de Greenpeace France - 2 hauts responsables suspendus
- EDF également accusé d'avoir espionné Greenpeace au Royaume-Uni
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/146082
* Français : Angola : Chevron Afrique annonce $500 mille pour un hôpital pédiatrique & aidera le gouvernement à lutter contre le Vih & le paludisme
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/753805
* Français : Film "Total Denial" sur Total & Unocal en Birmanie - projection le 14 mai 2009, Liège, Belgique
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/595871
ARCHIVE of past Weekly Updates / ARCHIVO de actualizaciones pasadas / ARCHIVE des Actualités hebdomadaires précédentes:
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Aboutus/WeeklyUpdatesarchive
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