The Export-Import Bank is set to approve a $4.7 billion support package for the Mozambique LNG project by Total Energies, despite significant concerns over human rights violations and ongoing investigations into the project’s impacts. Critics argue this funding diverts taxpayer resources away from humanitarian aid and emphasizes an alarming trend in favor of corporate interests over local welfare.
The U.S. Export-Import Bank (EXIM) is poised to approve financial support for the Mozambique LNG project operated by Total Energies, amidst significant concerns regarding human rights violations and associated violence. Reports indicate an independent inquiry by the Dutch government is underway concerning abuses by Mozambique’s security forces, with the Mozambican Attorney General’s office also investigating allegations related to these violations.
Furthermore, the French state prosecutor is conducting an inquiry into Total Energies for manslaughter linked to the 2021 Palma Massacre, where company actions allegedly contributed to the deaths of numerous individuals. Additional scrutiny comes as a Coroner’s Court in London will examine the circumstances surrounding the murder of British subcontractor Philip Mawer during the incident.
Daniel Ribiero, Technical Coordinator at Friends of the Earth Mozambique, expressed skepticism about the EXIM’s decision to approve $4.7 billion for the project, highlighting the human rights violations and environmental threats it poses. He criticized the administration’s priorities, stating that the refusal to aid Mozambique’s health sector while funding a multinational corporation reveals a troubling focus on profit over people.
Kate DeAngelis, Economic Policy Deputy Director for Friends of the Earth U.S., further criticized the government’s actions, arguing that the decision represents a misuse of taxpayer funds intended for humanitarian aid, diverting resources to the fossil fuel sector instead.
Simone Ogno from ReCommon noted alarming parallels in the commitment of various countries’ export credit agencies to finance Mozambique LNG without updated assessments of its social and environmental consequences.
The Mozambique LNG project is being pursued in a country grappling with significant political unrest, alongside rampant demonstrations against governmental actions since late 2024. Reports indicate a strong response from authorities, resulting in considerable casualties and the unlawful detention of many protestors, raising further human rights concerns.
The impending approval of EXIM’s financial support for the Mozambique LNG project raises serious ethical and humanitarian concerns amid ongoing investigations into human rights violations. Critics from multiple organizations underscore the inconsistency of prioritizing large corporate interests over humanitarian aid in Mozambique, revealing the implications of governmental choices that seem to favor multinational entities. The situation reflects a critical juncture in the discourse surrounding corporate responsibility and human rights.
Original Source: foe.org
