UN assembly Considers Landmark Treaty to Curb Mining Abuses as Demand for Minerals Soars
Nairobi,Kenya - A pivotal United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) is underway this week,with a proposal for a groundbreaking global treaty to address the severe environmental and human rights risks associated with mineral mining taking centre stage. Led by Colombia, the initiative seeks to establish a framework for environmentally sound management of minerals and metals, including mandatory due diligence and traceability within mineral supply chains.
The move comes as communities worldwide face escalating threats from mining operations – including ecosystem destruction, threats to livelihoods, and increased risks of cancer and other illnesses – highlighted by a recent disaster in Zambia where a Chinese company’s operations caused widespread pollution. While the company provided some compensation, reports indicate a suppression of a comprehensive study detailing the full extent of the damage.
The proposed treaty aims to prevent such disasters by establishing clear standards and accountability measures. Several nations, including Armenia, Ecuador, Oman, and Zambia, have voiced support for the initiative.
However, negotiations are expected to be challenging. Countries like Saudi Arabia,Iran,and Russia are reportedly opposing binding measures,favoring rather voluntary commitments from businesses. Advocates argue that voluntary measures are demonstrably insufficient,citing investigations by Human Rights watch and others that have repeatedly exposed labor abuses and environmental damage despite corporate pledges. A Human Rights Watch inquiry,for example,detailed ongoing issues with uyghur forced labor in supply chains.
“Voluntary measures by businesses are not sufficient to protect human rights and the environment,” a sentiment echoed by civil society groups including Human Rights Watch, who have welcomed Colombia’s proposal.
As global demand for minerals crucial for the energy transition, defense, and technological advancements continues to rise, the need for robust safeguards is becoming increasingly urgent. Colombia and its allies are proposing the formation of a UN working group to explore both binding and non-binding measures, a process that has successfully initiated treaty development in the past.
The outcome of this week’s assembly will be critical in determining whether the international community can forge a path towards responsible mineral sourcing and protect vulnerable communities and ecosystems from the devastating consequences of unchecked mining practices.
