EITI advocates for transparency and accountability in the extractive sector. Its mission is to “promote understanding of natural resource management, strengthen public and corporate governance and accountability, and provide the data to inform policymaking and multi-stakeholder dialogue in the extractive sector”. The German chapter of EITI (D-EITI) supports the implementation of open and accountable management of natural resources in Germany. D-EITI’s goal is to promote dialogue and transparency in the German raw materials sector and work with countries of the Global South and North to fight corruption and promote accountability across the industry.
Andrew Irvine, Director of Legal and Corporate Engagement at EITI facilitated a panel discussion on how mining companies could manage risks when they find themselves amid a coup. The discussion took place in the first week of February during the Mining Indaba in Cape Town which is the world’s largest African mining investment event. He stated that “before the latest outbreak of coups in the region, Africa has seen relative political stability, but the latest spate of overthrows poses a serious threat to progress in the region”. affected are countries in the Sahel region such as Mali, Guinea, Chad, and Burkina Faso where a total of nine coups took place in the last three years. This affects sustainable development in all regards and requires careful management of human safety and business continuity also by EITI-supporting mining companies. Amongst others, mining companies face issues such as ensuring the security of their employees, food and fuel shortages and sanctions. A key outcome of the discussion is the challenge of ensuring back-channel engagement with the governments and at the same time ensuring that no international rules and laws are violated. MSPs such as EITI can help facilitate dialogues. Furthermore, they can create awareness of risks for different stakeholders and prepare them on how to deal with the challenges of operating in conflict affected regions.
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