Pax Christi International, CIDSE, the International family of Catholic social justice organisations and the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the EU (COMECE) are co-organising a panel discussion entitled ‘Extractives in Latin America: what are the responses at the grassroots, EU & international levels?’.

Many Latin American communities are heavily affected by the activities of extractive industry companies who exploit oil, gas, gold, silver, iron, copper, tin, and others. Worryingly, the situation has deteriorated in recent years, as extractive activities are substantially increasing and expected to grow even more in the coming years. This increase, mostly by transnational corporations, generates irreversible and negative impacts on livelihoods, ecosystems and the human rights of local communities, often causing conflicts. While many Latin American governments have been supporting the practices of extractive corporations through economic incentives and legal changes, alternatives exist.

To reflect on these, a representative of the Zoque indigenous community in Mexico will provide an example of her community’s struggle. The other panelists will then address the issue of respect for human rights by European companies and the role the EU should play in this. In particular, the panel will reflect on the relation between trade and investment regimes and the global Business & Human Rights framework, and especially the opportunities opened by the UN binding treaty negotiations.

In case of questions, please contact Alice Kooij Martinez, Pax Christi International’s Senior Advocacy Officer.

Please register by COB 26 October 2017 under this link.