The U.S. Export-Import Bank is set to approve financial support for the Mozambique LNG project by Total Energies, despite serious allegations of human rights violations, environmental concerns, and political instability in the region. Investigations are underway by several governments regarding these issues, prompting criticism from various advocacy groups.
The U.S. Export-Import Bank (EXIM) board is poised to approve substantial support for Total Energies’ Mozambique LNG project amid serious concerns regarding human rights violations connected to this venture. Reports detail investigations by various authorities, including an independent inquiry from the Dutch government and the Mozambican Attorney General’s office looking into abuses by local security forces.
French authorities are also probing Total Energies following allegations of manslaughter linked to the Palma Massacre. A coroner’s court in London plans to discuss the death of Philip Mawer, a British subcontractor killed during the incident. Critics argue these tragedies raise ethical issues that should deter investors from supporting the project.
Daniel Ribiero from Friends of the Earth Mozambique stated, “The human rights violations, armed conflict, environmental impacts and risky economic projections should have kept most sensible investors away,” criticizing the EXIM’s impending $4.7 billion financial backing. Kate DeAngelis from Friends of the Earth U.S. emphasized the juxtaposition of cutting foreign aid while offering a significant handout to fossil fuel interests as a misuse of taxpayer resources.
Simone Ogno, representing ReCommon, highlighted the troubling connection between the Italian SACE and U.S. EXIM’s support for Mozambique LNG without updated social and environmental assessments. The lack of due diligence reinforces concerns about the close ties between administrations neglecting human rights in favor of corporate interests.
The Mozambique LNG initiative is advancing in a nation grappling with political unrest, having faced substantial protests since late 2024. The government’s forceful response has led to significant casualties and numerous illegal detentions, further underscoring the project’s contentious context.
In conclusion, the approval of support for the Mozambique LNG project by the U.S. Export-Import Bank raises significant moral and ethical concerns. Investigations into human rights violations, environmental impacts, and ongoing political turmoil within Mozambique highlight the potential risks of this investment. Critics have voiced strong objections, suggesting that the focus should be on humanitarian aid rather than lucrative international projects that could exacerbate these issues.
Original Source: foe.org
