news items
Attacks on communities resisting dam construction in Guatemala.
4 May 2012 - Friends of the Earth International strongly condemns the violence and repression against residents of the Santa Cruz Barillas in the Department of Huehuetenango, Guatemala, because of their opposition to the operations of the Spanish company Hydro Santa Cruz, SA.
Mining and Human Rights Violations in Argentina
Many communities have mobilized in opposition to prevailing mining models in Argentina this year. The use of road blocks to obstruct exportation of goods has been one popular tactic. However, these demonstrations have often been suppressed by police force. On several occasions the residents and activists have been beaten, abused and detained by the police with the approval (tacit or not) of provincial and national authorities. The development of these mining projects has already interfered with people's fundamental right to water and their constitutional right to a healthy environment. There are growing concerns that individual political freedoms are also in danger.
Human Rights Defenders
Human rights abuses are being perpetrated against environmental and community campaigners around the world. The full extent and severity of this situation has recently become clearer thanks to the committed work of groups like Global Witness, and by the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders. Friends of the Earth advocates for justice for those affected and works to raise awareness with the kind support of the European Union.
FoE Japan: Contradiction Rife Energy and Environmental Strategy Missing Key Principles and Pathways to Realize a “Zero Nuclear” Energy System as Early as Possible
The “Innovative Strategy for Energy and the Environment” was announced on September 14th. While the target is a “Nuclear phase out” by 2040, the contents include a continuation of reprocessing activity and a declaration to restart nuclear power stations. These actions could well preserve the previous nuclear energy regime, so the strategy is full of contradictions. It should be noted that the announced Strategy does not reflect the opinion of the majority (90%) of citizens, who submitted public comments solicited by the Japanese government. They want Japan to abolish nuclear energy at the earliest possible time before 2030, with 80% favouring immediate phase out.
