http://bicusa.org/en/Issue.6.aspx The latest news on Energy & Extractive Industries from the Bank Information Center 10 http://www.infodev.org/images/infodev.gif http://bicusa.org/en/Issue.6.aspx The World Bank Group (WBG) loans to countries in Europe and Central Asia (ECA) increased by 30% between FY07 and FY08. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3904.aspx Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3904.aspx The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has approved a US$50 million loan for expansion of oil and gas extraction operations in the Timan-Pechora basin of the northern Komi Republic in Russia. Various civil society groups have raised concerns of the major project's implications for the environment and the indigenous Komi-Izhemts people's rights. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3902.aspx Fri, 19 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3902.aspx Following the August 25 reopening of the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan Pipeline after the armed conflict in Georgia, the BTC has faced several technical and strategic issues when it comes to its future and viability. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3900.aspx Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3900.aspx The World Bank’s request amounts to an admission of failure in one of its most controversial and disastrous projects – once touted as a “model” for high-risk projects - after the Chadian government repeatedly used its newfound oil wealth in contravention of its agreements to invest in poverty reduction. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3892.aspx Fri, 12 Sep 2008 13:34:20 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3892.aspx Over 100 civil society groups from 31 countries are calling on financial backers to withdraw their support from the the controversial Phulbari Coal Project in Bangladesh. The project will displace over 200,000 people, impoverish farming households and cause immense environmental impacts in one of the most fertile regions of Bangladesh. Despite these factors, according to information available on its website, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) remains interested in financing the project after having distanced itself from it earlier this year. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3881.aspx Thu, 21 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3881.aspx IFI involvement in mining and oil projects in the Timan-Pechora basin raises environmental and social concerns. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3882.aspx Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3882.aspx Since the Chinese economy has taken off and it has increasingly looked to Africa to provide raw materials, the World Bank and IMF have been confronted with the question of how to respond. Recent statements by the institutions have shown that these responses are careful and at times contradictory. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3877.aspx Tue, 19 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3877.aspx James Wolfensohn, a former World Bank president, may have assisted a corrupt businessman seeking control of Azerbaijan’s state oil company. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3873.aspx Thu, 14 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3873.aspx The International Finance Corporation (IFC) fails to provide adequate links to government payment disclosures by its extractive industry clients. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3874.aspx Thu, 14 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3874.aspx The International Finance Corporation's (IFC) $35 million investment in a Guinea iron mine is in jeopardy after the government rescinded a deal with mining company, Rio Tinto. At the same time, the IFC is exploring the possibility of a $500 million stake in a massive aluminum project in the West African country. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3871.aspx Mon, 11 Aug 2008 15:39:36 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3871.aspx As the great powers seek energy security, Turkmenistan is at the center of a number of pipeline proposals. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3870.aspx Mon, 11 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3870.aspx A fire on the Turkish segment of the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline has led to declined oil production, pipeline closure, and security fears. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3867.aspx Thu, 07 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3867.aspx But questions on compensation for displaced, “upstream” impacts, and gas flaring remain unanswered. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3864.aspx Tue, 05 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3864.aspx As the World Bank prepares to launch two new climate investment funds at the upcoming G8 summit, and positions itself as the "climate bank," new statistics developed by the Bank Information Center show that the World Bank's private sector arm, the International Financial Corporation (IFC), increased its lending for fossil fuel projects by a staggering 165% in FY2008. Taken as a whole, the World Bank Group increased its fossil-fuel lending by 60% in the same period. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3840.aspx Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3840.aspx On July 9-10, 2008, the International Monetarty Funds’s (IMF) Working Group on Sovereign Wealth Funds (SWFs) held a two-day meeting in Singapore to address concerns around SWFs and consider possible guidelines. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3849.aspx Thu, 17 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3849.aspx Europe’s pursuit of new energy routes has helped secure Central Asia’s eligibility for funding from the European Investment Bank (EIB), leading to concerns about further extractive industry financing in the region. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3851.aspx Thu, 17 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3851.aspx On June 16, 2008, the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) agreed to loan up to $3.7 billion for the controversial oil and gas project in Russia. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3846.aspx Mon, 14 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3846.aspx July riots signal the importance of transparency and responsible revenue management for Mongolia’s political stability. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3837.aspx Wed, 02 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3837.aspx Bank Information Center has recently released it's new "Handbook for Advocacy on Extractive Industry Revenues: Good Practices and the IMF’s Guide on Resource Revenue Transparency." http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3836.aspx Tue, 01 Jul 2008 14:34:41 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3836.aspx The Bota Foundation, administered by the World Bank, held its first Board of Trustees meeting in June. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3824.aspx Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3824.aspx World Bank involvement in the proposed Inga and Kafue dams has brought criticism over the continued reliance on hydro in a warming world, and intentions to power foreign mining companies. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3822.aspx Mon, 23 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3822.aspx As Newmont, the world's largest mining company prepares for gold mining operations in Ghana, civil society groups challenge the purported benefits for local communities. Meanwhile, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) has come under fire for the environmental and social legacies of its gold mining investments in Ghana and its plans proceed to begin the next phase of Newmont's controversial Ahafo gold project. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3821.aspx Sat, 21 Jun 2008 14:45:24 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3821.aspx Russian oil and gas companies Gazprom and Lukoil discovered a major oil and gas condensate deposit in the Caspian Sea. The deposit will be developed along with Kazakhstan. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3806.aspx Tue, 10 Jun 2008 16:15:21 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3806.aspx Kazakhstan has signed into law a 2006 agreement to transport oil through the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline, while making plans to connect its oil to the BTC route through additional domestic and trans-Caspian pipelines. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3804.aspx Tue, 10 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3804.aspx Recent developments, decisions, and civil society activities related to activities of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in Azerbaijan. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3792.aspx Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3792.aspx Recent developments, decisions, and civil society activities related to activities of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in Kazakhstan. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3794.aspx Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3794.aspx Recent developments, decisions, and civil society activities related to activities of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in the Kyrgyz Republic. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3795.aspx Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3795.aspx Recent developments, decisions, and civil society activities related to activities of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in Mongolia. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3796.aspx Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3796.aspx Recent developments, decisions, and civil society activities related to activities of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in Georgia. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3797.aspx Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3797.aspx Recent developments, decisions, and civil society activities related to activities of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in Russia. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3798.aspx Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3798.aspx In a recently released audit report, the International Finance Corporation’s (IFC) Office of Compliance, Advisor/Ombudsman (CAO) has found that the IFC is out of compliance with safety standards for toxic emissions at the giant Karachaganak Oil and Gas Condensate Field in western Kazakhstan. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3745.aspx Wed, 30 Apr 2008 10:43:06 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3745.aspx In response to requests from the Bank Information Center (BIC) and other civil society organizations, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) has begun providing links to where IFC extractive industry clients disclose their payments to host governments. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3734.aspx Tue, 15 Apr 2008 17:52:05 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3734.aspx The Director of the Asian Development Bank’s Private Sector Operations Department, Robert Bestani, notified the Bank’s Board of Directors last week that it will take the Phulbari Coal Project in Bangladesh out of the Bank’s funding pipeline. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3720.aspx Fri, 04 Apr 2008 11:29:16 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3720.aspx DRC mining contract commission to push for a greater share in the Tenke Fungurume mining concession, one of the largest copper-cobalt deposits in the world. Critics charge that EIB's investment in the highly contested project before the conclusion of the contract review was "irresponsible." http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3719.aspx Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3719.aspx The World Bank is considering financing a hydroelectric dam between Burundi and Tanzania that would boost mining production in East Africa. But in an area prone to drought, particularly with the onset of climate change, questions remain about the project's sustainability and whether it will be worth the projected $190 million cost. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3718.aspx Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3718.aspx As wealthy local and foreign investors purchase more and more Brazilian land, wuestions over how to contain rising land prices emerge. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3708.aspx Fri, 28 Mar 2008 09:56:19 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3708.aspx As a significant rebel threat to his government appears to recede, Chadian President Idriss Deby has clamped down on political opponents and bypassed controls established by an agreement with the World Bank to redirect oil revenues for military use. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3693.aspx Thu, 06 Mar 2008 11:14:58 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3693.aspx Following similar announcements by other multilateral development banks, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) last week endorsed the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI). http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3689.aspx Mon, 03 Mar 2008 17:45:26 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3689.aspx Read the preliminary assessment of the implementation of project level revenue transparency commitments for the extractive industry projects financed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3685.aspx Tue, 26 Feb 2008 14:08:37 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3685.aspx Iraq’s renewed Stand-By Arrangement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) includes macroeconomic policy reforms that may restrict fiscal space for public spending, particularly on the public wage bill. It also continues the deep involvement of international financial institutions in Iraq’s oil sector. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3671.aspx Wed, 13 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3671.aspx Kashagan Oil Field threatens local livelihoods, health, and endangered species. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3669.aspx Mon, 11 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3669.aspx While the World Bank has expressed its support for the move, calling the new fiscal regime "more equitable," critics counter that the Bank was responsible for insisting on rock-bottom tax rates in 1998 that have deprived the government of much-needed revenue as copper prices soared. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3672.aspx Thu, 07 Feb 2008 13:22:07 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3672.aspx Addressing the African Union Summit on Thursday, January 31, 2008, World Bank President Zoellick committed to expanding the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI). http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3667.aspx Mon, 04 Feb 2008 15:11:25 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3667.aspx After several delays, the gas pipeline project is expected to enter into initial constuction phase in 2009 amid civil society concerns over environmental and social impacts. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3660.aspx Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:44:17 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3660.aspx Construction of the dam proceeds despite an ongoing investigation into claims presented by civil society groups that the project violates environmental and social standards of both the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB). http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3651.aspx Thu, 17 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3651.aspx World Bank's Inspection Panel expected to submit findings of its investigation into claims made by local communities that the project violated the Bank's environmental and social policies. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3632.aspx Tue, 18 Dec 2007 12:11:22 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3632.aspx Leaked report lists IFC-sponsored Kalukundi concession among contracts recommended for renegotiation. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3576.aspx Wed, 14 Nov 2007 17:34:48 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3576.aspx The claim runs contrary to a recent report which found that over 40 percent of IFC projects implemented between 1996 and 2006 failed to deliver positive development results. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3575.aspx Wed, 14 Nov 2007 17:15:54 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3575.aspx According to Bloomberg, the plant would require the use of up to two-thirds of the dam's output. The World Bank previously indicated that it may be willing to support the expansion of the dam. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3574.aspx Wed, 14 Nov 2007 17:03:59 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3574.aspx Guilt for the environmental catastrophe in the Strait of Kerch lies with the authorities in Russia and Ukraine, as well as with the companies transporting dangerous cargo http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3572.aspx Mon, 12 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3572.aspx A coalition of non-governmental organisations from Europe, North America, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) launched an international appeal today demanding the publication of the final report of the ministerial commission on the review of mining contracts without delay. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3563.aspx Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:31:15 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3563.aspx Recent developments, decisions, and civil society activities related to activities of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in Mongolia. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3552.aspx Thu, 01 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3552.aspx In it's first major petrochemical investment since Peru’s Camisea Natural Gas project, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) will likely loan US$1.5 billion to Ecuador to help the country's state-owned oil company PetroEcuador. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3535.aspx Sun, 14 Oct 2007 18:48:24 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3535.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3525.aspx Mon, 08 Oct 2007 11:29:15 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3525.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3524.aspx Mon, 08 Oct 2007 11:11:14 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3524.aspx The African Development Bank (AfDB) will contribute $100 million despite ongoing review into alleged irregularities associated with mining concession contract. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3520.aspx Thu, 04 Oct 2007 13:49:47 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3520.aspx The African Development Bank's $500 million loan to support Eskom's expansion raises the question of whether it wields sufficient leverage to ensure adherence to its social and environmental safeguards. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3505.aspx Tue, 25 Sep 2007 09:49:56 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3505.aspx In an effort to reduce dependence on Russian gas, the European Union endorses the development of the Nabucco gas pipeline. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3501.aspx Mon, 24 Sep 2007 12:21:21 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3501.aspx Recent developments, decisions, and civil society activities related to activities of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in Kazakhstan. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3500.aspx Mon, 24 Sep 2007 10:24:56 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3500.aspx Recent developments, decisions, and civil society activities related to activities of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in Azerbaijan. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3499.aspx Mon, 24 Sep 2007 09:57:10 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3499.aspx Proposed copper-cobalt and gold projects re-enforce civil society's misgivings about the International Finance Corporation's commitment to environmental and social sustainability. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3507.aspx Mon, 24 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3507.aspx Major weaknesses found in IFC’s environmental, health standards http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3477.aspx Thu, 06 Sep 2007 10:12:58 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3477.aspx Although construction of the controversial hydropower project in Uganda began last week, debate continues over the dam's design, cost and impacts. A recent article in the Baltimore Sun provides details. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3473.aspx Mon, 27 Aug 2007 09:59:15 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3473.aspx Last week, National Public Radio's Morning Edition broadcast a story on the debate surrounding the World Bank-financed Bujagali dam in Uganda. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3471.aspx Thu, 23 Aug 2007 16:00:20 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3471.aspx A recent article by the World Bank applauds governments in MENA for increasing investment in environmental protection. While the World Bank is encouraging MENA countries to decrease their carbon emissions, it continues to finance extractive industry projects in the region. This apparent contradiction is just one of several reasons to take a closer look at the Bank's recent coverage of the 'greening' of MENA. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3470.aspx Thu, 23 Aug 2007 14:19:20 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3470.aspx BIC's new assessment reviews EI operations in more than 40 countries for the lending period of July 2005 to December 2006. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3462.aspx Fri, 17 Aug 2007 14:39:27 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3462.aspx The Asian Development Bank has completed the consultation process on its draft Energy Strategy. Civil society organizations from throughout the region have called on the ADB to incorporate current international best practices in sector, and at minimum to adopt the principles of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3461.aspx Fri, 17 Aug 2007 11:54:54 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3461.aspx China's "no-strings-attached" investments in Africa appear to many a welcome alternative to the conditional loans offered by the World Bank and IMF. But what consequences will China's growing involvement on the continent have for Africans? http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3460.aspx Thu, 16 Aug 2007 14:21:03 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3460.aspx The Bank's $250 million Forest Carbon Partnership Facility will offer some nations carbon credits in exchange for preserving their forests. The fund is anticipated to launch in December. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3454.aspx Wed, 01 Aug 2007 15:43:05 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3454.aspx The European Investment Bank this week approved €100 million ($130 million) for the controversial Tenke Fungurume mining project, despite calls from civil society for public lenders to await the outcome of an ongoing examination of 60 mining contracts. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3445.aspx Fri, 20 Jul 2007 11:21:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3445.aspx Find out what extractive industry (oil, gas, mining) and energy projects the international financial institutions (IFIs) are financing in your country. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3395.aspx Fri, 20 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3395.aspx Sale of gas from EIB-financed LNG plant in Egypt at discount prices raises questions about who benefited from the deal. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3443.aspx Thu, 19 Jul 2007 12:18:28 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3443.aspx World Bank-backed project to receive Inspection Panel visit. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3437.aspx Fri, 13 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3437.aspx Critics argue that OPIC's expected investment in the Tenke Fungurume mine appears to prejudge the outcomes of the ongoing government review process. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3436.aspx Wed, 11 Jul 2007 12:05:49 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3436.aspx Plans to scale up investments in mining, large infrastructure, and private education raises concerns among civil society groups skeptical of the IFC's commitment to development. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3427.aspx Thu, 05 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3427.aspx Critics contend that even with the upcoming review of 60 mining contracts signed during the war and by the interim government, the Congolese stand to benefit little. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3399.aspx Fri, 15 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3399.aspx Just weeks after the World Bank Group approved $360 million in loans and guarantees for the Bujagali Hydroelectric Dam, the project is again in the news following renewed debate over the crisis facing Lake Victoria. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3404.aspx Fri, 15 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3404.aspx The World Bank is preparing to announce a new $250 million fund aimed at using carbon finance to reduce emissions from deforestation. According to recent news reports, world leaders have encouraged the Bank to move forward with plans to create a Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF), which would leverage private investor money and donor contributions to help countries develop strategies for avoiding forest degradation and secure payment for forest-related emissions reduction, through the creation of tradable carbon credits. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3398.aspx Thu, 14 Jun 2007 22:12:42 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3398.aspx While NGOs express disappointment at the G8’s failure to take any bold steps on climate change during the recent summit in Heligendamm, Germany, the World Bank has praised the meeting outcomes and applauded the emphasis on market mechanisms to combat climate change. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3394.aspx Tue, 12 Jun 2007 12:01:33 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3394.aspx The Asian Development Bank released a draft of its proposed Energy Strategy on May 28 for a sixty day comment period ending July 27, 2007. Civil society groups will engage with ADB but want to see more iterations of draft. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3391.aspx Thu, 07 Jun 2007 16:56:07 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3391.aspx The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) held its Annual Governors Meeting in Kazan, Russia May 20-21, 2007. The NGO Programme organized by the Bank attracted a large array of civil society organizations from Russia and abroad. While many questions were left unanswered by the Bank, NGOs succeeded in raising issues of critical importance to civil society in Russia and elsewhere. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3384.aspx Tue, 05 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3384.aspx Local groups argue that the controversial IFC-sponsored Ahafo gold mine seriously threatens the environment and livelihoods. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3338.aspx Mon, 14 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3338.aspx Bank approves $360 million financing package for dam on Victoria Nile despite concerns about climate change, environmental impacts and cost. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3291.aspx Fri, 27 Apr 2007 12:20:12 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3291.aspx The World Bank produced a progress report on its Africa Action Plan in advance of the Spring Meetings in Washington, DC earlier this month. How has the Bank measured up to its commitments, and what should Africa expect moving forward? http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3287.aspx Fri, 27 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3287.aspx World Bank Managing Director, Juan Jose Daboub, apparently tried to delete the words "climate change" from the institution's main environmental strategy paper, reports the Financial Times. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3286.aspx Thu, 26 Apr 2007 15:01:55 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3286.aspx In a press release following yesterday's decision, NGOs accuse the Bank of ignoring inconvenient truths about climate change, hydrology and fisheries. They warn the project may threaten Lake Victoria and leave the majority of Ugandans in the dark. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3292.aspx Thu, 26 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3292.aspx The World Bank Group's pledge to reduce greenhouse gases rings hollow as the organization increases assistance for the development of fossil fuels. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3272.aspx Wed, 18 Apr 2007 16:44:10 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3272.aspx Report highlights disrepancies between conclusions of the World Bank and the official project monitors. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3270.aspx Mon, 16 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3270.aspx The World Bank-backed Chad-Cameroon pipeline is once again in the news - this time following the release of a new report which documents the heavy toll that oil development has taken on the local population in southern Chad. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3261.aspx Fri, 13 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3261.aspx Investigation to focus on issues of compensation, safety, livelihood impacts, and gas flaring http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3263.aspx Fri, 13 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3263.aspx Civil society remains concerned about limited public participation and energy planning, risks to Chad-Cameroon pipeline and forest reserves, and expectations that the dam would serve industrial interests. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3264.aspx Fri, 13 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3264.aspx Many remain skeptical that the proposed project represents a solution to Africa’s energy woes http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3247.aspx Thu, 12 Apr 2007 11:56:13 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3247.aspx Eva Joly encourages Zambian parliamentarians to demand greater revenues so that the country could benefit from its lucrative copper industry http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3396.aspx Thu, 29 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3396.aspx Taking advantage of rising commodity prices, the International Finance Corporation plans to expand its hard rock mining activities to incorporate copper, aluminum and iron ore http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3215.aspx Wed, 14 Mar 2007 17:09:56 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3215.aspx A coalition of NGOs launched an appeal to the Congolese government, the World Bank and other international partners to "renegotiate, revoke or cancel" disadvantageous mining contracts made during the war and under the transitional government, in order to ensure that the Congolese people derive a "fair share" from the exploitation of the country's natural resources. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3209.aspx Tue, 13 Mar 2007 15:14:25 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3209.aspx The use of public money by the European Investment Bank and the African Development Bank to extract uranium poses a serious cause for concern, not only because of threat of contamination of local water sources, but because of the precedent it would set. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3199.aspx Wed, 07 Mar 2007 15:58:04 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3199.aspx Controversial World Bank-backed project faces further obstacles due to ongoing instability in Nigeria’s turbulent Niger Delta region. In recent months, unrest in the Delta has been marked by kidnappings of oil workers and attacks on oil installations. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3198.aspx Wed, 07 Mar 2007 15:44:09 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3198.aspx At a two-day “experience-sharing meeting” on the extractive industries (EI) in Africa last week in Tunis, the banks agreed to intensify their collaboration on EI work and support for the implementation of the EITI by resource-rich countries in Africa. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3181.aspx Mon, 26 Feb 2007 11:01:33 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3181.aspx Although Dr. Sarah Wykes, an anti-corruption campaigner at Global Witness, has been released from prison following her Feb 20 arrest on espionage charges, she has not yet been able to leave the oil-rich Cabina region, where she was detained. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3165.aspx Mon, 26 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3165.aspx IDB President Moreno suggests that increased U.S. ethanol needs could be provided by Latin America http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3155.aspx Thu, 15 Feb 2007 10:22:47 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3155.aspx A report released last week documents the failure of the proposed Bujagali Dam in Uganda to fully comply with the international best practices set by the World Commission on Dams (WCD) http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3157.aspx Thu, 15 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3157.aspx The controversial Chad-Cameroon pipeline is again in the news after an off-shore oil spill occurred near the town of Kribi in coastal Cameroon. Meanwhile in southern Chad, where ExxonMobil and its consortium partners extract nearly 200,000 barrels of “black gold” per day, the security situation and living conditions are deteriorating. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3148.aspx Tue, 13 Feb 2007 10:20:16 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3148.aspx An article in The Times described a secret high-level meeting of the heads of several Western mining companies and UN and World Bank officials concerning competition from Chinese investors in Africa’s mining sector http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3140.aspx Fri, 09 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3140.aspx The U.S. Government Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) recommended to British Petroleum (BP) that more safety precautions are needed for the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) Pipeline, which transports oil from the Caspian Sea through Azerbaijan and Georgia to Turkey. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3131.aspx Tue, 06 Feb 2007 17:36:32 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3131.aspx The World Bank recently released its annual report on Bank Management’s progress in implementing the recommendations laid out in the 2003 Extractive Industries Review (EIR). http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3127.aspx Fri, 02 Feb 2007 11:30:32 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3127.aspx Concerns include the draft's failure to adequately address the Bank's internal governance and the role of the private sector. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3118.aspx Tue, 30 Jan 2007 11:43:46 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3118.aspx The Center for Environment and Development (CED), a Cameroon-based organization that has been active in monitoring the impacts of the Chad-Cameroon oil pipeline project, has issued a press release on the incident. CED notes, among other things, a concern regarding the poor communication and long delay in alerting the public and local authorities about the spill. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3108.aspx Wed, 24 Jan 2007 17:44:37 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3108.aspx The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has decided not to fund the largest oil and gas project in the world, Sakhalin II, on Russia’s Far Eastern island after several years of consultations. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3091.aspx Tue, 16 Jan 2007 15:58:07 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3091.aspx BIC's Europe and Central Asia program recently conducted a research study of legal agreement disclosure in European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) Extractive Industries projects. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3083.aspx Tue, 09 Jan 2007 12:38:45 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3083.aspx BIC's Europe and Central Asia program has compiled an easy access source of information on International Financial Institution (IFI) disclosure policies and their weaknesses. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3082.aspx Tue, 09 Jan 2007 12:32:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3082.aspx In July 2001, the World Bank Group (WBG) commissioned the Extractive Industry Review (EIR), a process led by an independent secretariat established to analyze whether extractive industries projects could be compatible with the WBG’s goals of sustainable development and poverty reduction. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3081.aspx Tue, 09 Jan 2007 12:23:51 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3081.aspx In an op-ed about the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in the Boston Globe, authors John le Carre and Jason Stearns criticized the unfavorable mining contracts signed between several international companies and Gecamines, the Congolese state-owned copper company, as a threat to the country’s prospects for lasting peace and development. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3088.aspx Tue, 09 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3088.aspx Both the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and European Investment Bank (EIB) disclosed project documents for the controversial Bujagali hydroelectric dam this week; IFC board date set for April 2007 http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3070.aspx Fri, 22 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3070.aspx The EIB's emphasis on large, fossil fuel-based infrastructure projects a major cause for concern. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3067.aspx Thu, 21 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3067.aspx The twenty-three projects featured on the map show wide temporal and geographic scope - demonstrating that the incidence of Canadian mining projects associated with significant adverse social and environmental problems is far more widespread than the mining industry would have you believe. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3044.aspx Tue, 12 Dec 2006 15:14:30 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3044.aspx After months of strained negotiations, it appears that Shell and its partners have given Gazprom, the Russian-state owned gas monopoly, 50 percent plus one control of the controversial oil and gas project. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3046.aspx Tue, 12 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3046.aspx An NGO letter to the World Bank details urgent concerns regarding the Bujagali hydropower project in Uganda, which is being fast-tracked for development early next year. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3035.aspx Wed, 06 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3035.aspx An internal memo warns that the Bank may be complicit in the non-transparent awarding of mining contracts that are unfavorable to the country http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3021.aspx Wed, 22 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3021.aspx European Investment Bank to provide funds for controversial Uganda dam http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3022.aspx Tue, 21 Nov 2006 13:05:45 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3022.aspx BIC and partners challenge World Bank and US Government controversial support of Big Oil in November 14 Financial Times advertisement. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3014.aspx Mon, 13 Nov 2006 23:35:29 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.3014.aspx The Sakhalin II project has come under fierce scrutiny by the Russian authorities in recent days, and may be suspended in certain sections due to allegations of illegal deforestation, the dumping of toxic waste, and soil erosion. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2994.aspx Fri, 27 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2994.aspx More than 100 civil society activists from over 50 countries gathered this past week in Oslo, Norway, called for stronger requirements on disclosure of revenues and contracts in the oil, mining and gas sectors. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2982.aspx Thu, 19 Oct 2006 15:24:20 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2982.aspx In a written response to civil society organizations, the World Bank has agreed to disclose its comments on the environmental impact assessment (EIA) of the planned Lom Pangar hydroelectric project in eastern Cameroon. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2975.aspx Wed, 11 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2975.aspx On the "golden" 50th anniversary of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), civil society organizations have released a briefing paper questioning the institution's investment in gold mining and calling for the IFC to report its development impacts on a project-by-project basis. <UL> <LI class=DocPDF> <DIV class=DocPDF><A href="http://www.bicusa.org/proxy/Document.9518.aspx" target="">Tarnished Gold: Mining and the unmet promise of development</A> September 2006 (Acrobat pdf 376 KB)</DIV></LI></UL> http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2956.aspx Mon, 18 Sep 2006 16:05:05 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2956.aspx A new NGO report finds that the World Bank's promise to seriously support alternative enery remains unfullfilled. Released in Singapore during the Bank's annual meeting, the report--How the World Bank's Energy Framework Sells the Climate and Poor People Short--calls on the Bank to step up efforts to meet basic energy needs of the poor, to stop subsidizing northern oil companies, and to redirect existing dirty energy financing to renewable technologies and energy efficiency projects. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2954.aspx Mon, 18 Sep 2006 12:13:37 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2954.aspx The EIR update contains information about International Financial Institutions (IFI) and civil society activities related to the implementation of EIR recommendations and World Bank Group Management commitments. Highlights relevant events, deadlines, and other developments related to IFI policies and operations in the EI sector. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2952.aspx Fri, 15 Sep 2006 17:50:38 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2952.aspx These documents were produced in association with a recent IFC/WB workshop entitled, "Sharing Experience: Enhancing the Benefits http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2951.aspx Fri, 15 Sep 2006 17:39:17 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2951.aspx This paper assesses a decade of IFI operations in Azerbaijan and how those operations have performed in relation to the goal of economic diversification – a main objective of IFI lending programs and the main priority of Azerbaijan's poverty reduction program. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2934.aspx Thu, 24 Aug 2006 11:41:18 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2934.aspx The Publish What You Pay coalition organized a briefing at the House of Representatives to highlight the lack of transparency and pervasive corruption in oil, gas and mining sector projects in the developing world. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2850.aspx Tue, 20 Jun 2006 17:24:59 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2850.aspx In a letter to World Bank Executive Directors, civil society organizations are calling for the recognition of a community referendum in Guatemala. Communities in Sipacapa, one of the municipalities impacted by the mine, registered their position on mineral development through a popular referendum in June 2005 with a majority of villages (11 out of 13) signing community acts stating their position against mining. It has become increasingly apparent that the IFC is not taking responsibility for the problems posed by the Marlin Mine and in particular the plight of the communities which have been adversely affected. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2838.aspx Tue, 13 Jun 2006 16:48:55 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2838.aspx Publicly disclosed external observer monitoring reports on Sakhalin II project were different from the original reports on which the released reports were allegedly based. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2835.aspx Mon, 12 Jun 2006 09:46:41 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2835.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2800.aspx Thu, 18 May 2006 15:42:24 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2800.aspx The situation on remote Sakhalin Island, considered to be one of the most promising new ventures by oil and gas corporations, has many concerned that environmental protection is taking a backseat to oil extraction. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2786.aspx Fri, 12 May 2006 11:24:51 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2786.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2711.aspx Tue, 04 Apr 2006 13:09:43 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2711.aspx The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development held the first of several public consultations in London on the Sakhalin II gas project, part of the 120-day public consultation period due to end on April 21. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2672.aspx Tue, 14 Mar 2006 11:30:34 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2672.aspx NGOs call upon the World Bank to investigate mining contracts and problems with the Bank's reform project in DR Congo. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2665.aspx Fri, 03 Mar 2006 17:36:24 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2665.aspx The review reveals that the World Bank Group has done little to effectively and transparently factor governance considerations into the selection and sequencing of its support for extractive industry (EI) projects and strategies. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2630.aspx Tue, 07 Feb 2006 18:40:58 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2630.aspx Peaceful protests on Sakhalin island urge EBRD to reject financing for reckless Sakhalin II project. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2618.aspx Tue, 31 Jan 2006 13:44:49 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2618.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2617.aspx Tue, 31 Jan 2006 13:35:51 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2617.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2512.aspx Tue, 31 Jan 2006 09:53:41 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2512.aspx Bulgarian Ministry of Environment and Water "silently denied" Canadian mining company gold mining development. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2599.aspx Mon, 23 Jan 2006 15:44:16 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2599.aspx The IFC shared a draft “check list” for investment officers on “assessment of risks to project benefits”. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2586.aspx Thu, 19 Jan 2006 11:00:29 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2586.aspx The report reviews the World Bank Group's progress in implementating the Extractive Industries Review since October 2004. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2580.aspx Thu, 12 Jan 2006 12:45:11 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2580.aspx In what some have described as Wolfowitz's first real test in his new position, the President announced the suspension of all World Bank loans to Chad on Friday. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2569.aspx Fri, 06 Jan 2006 16:33:01 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2569.aspx CEE Bankwatch and BIC release new report "Grounded in Washington" assessing World Bank Group implementation of the Extractive Industries Review commitments. <ul><li class="DocPDF"> <a href=" http://aa.ecn.cz/img_upload/2a47e698cb07569dfd0ebe077b6aad99/grounded_in_dc_web.pdf "> “Grounded in Washington” </a> CEE Bankwatch and BIC, December, 2005 (Acrobat PDF 1.5MB) </li></ul> http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2552.aspx Thu, 22 Dec 2005 12:04:19 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2552.aspx Affected communities ask to meet with World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2466.aspx Fri, 04 Nov 2005 14:18:32 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2466.aspx Manish Bapna, BIC's Executive Director, highlighted the importance of strengthening the IFC's performance standards and creating binding social and environmental obligations for the mining industry in a recent letter to the New York Times. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2463.aspx Mon, 31 Oct 2005 11:27:20 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2463.aspx The government of Chad has announced its intention to amend the Petroleum Revenue Management Law—the much-vaunted centerpiece of the World Bank’s “model” Chad-Cameroon oil pipeline project—in order to increase revenues available for discretionary spending today. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2450.aspx Thu, 27 Oct 2005 11:07:50 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2450.aspx A recent New York Times feature on gold mining has sparked renewed interest in an industry that has been scrutinized by civil society groups, development organizations and affected communities for quite some time. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2447.aspx Wed, 26 Oct 2005 15:37:52 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2447.aspx Coinciding with the proposed time for release of WB Progress Report on EIR implementation, on December 11-14, 2005 CEE Bankwatch and BIC will host a workshop in Washington, DC to highlight WBG performance on the implementation of EIR recommendations. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2446.aspx Wed, 26 Oct 2005 11:47:10 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2446.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2430.aspx Fri, 21 Oct 2005 16:47:44 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2430.aspx Report released on October 11, ahead of Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline opening ceremony in Tbilisi, Georgia details the infringements detected in the construction phase of the Georgian section of the BTC pipeline and the problems – many of them with long-term implications – faced by Georgians during the implementation of the project. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2402.aspx Tue, 11 Oct 2005 12:17:16 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2402.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2367.aspx Tue, 04 Oct 2005 16:26:40 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2367.aspx In response to recommendations arising from last July's G8 summit at Gleneagles, the World Bank and the G8 Presidency began work on an investment framework and implementation strategy for clean energy and sustainable development during the 2005 IMF/World Bank Annual Meetings. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2355.aspx Wed, 28 Sep 2005 15:38:10 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2355.aspx The Advisory Group is intended to serve as a forum for discussion of extrative industry projects. The first meeting is scheduled for October 5-6, 2005 in Washington, DC. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2353.aspx Wed, 28 Sep 2005 12:34:32 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2353.aspx Read the Bank Information Center's review of the CAO report criticizing the IFC's role in the Marlin open pit goldmine project. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2333.aspx Tue, 13 Sep 2005 10:37:25 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2333.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2290.aspx Thu, 18 Aug 2005 15:01:08 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2290.aspx The United States Treasury issues a report for US Congress on the amount and type of assistance provided for EI activities since September 30, 2004 by each IFI. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2289.aspx Thu, 18 Aug 2005 12:49:43 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2289.aspx The director of the Oil, Mining, Gas and Chemicals Department responds to a civil society letter noting lack of progress on implementing Extractive Industries Review recommendations. Read the full response and highlights. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2285.aspx Fri, 12 Aug 2005 12:11:32 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2285.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2195.aspx Thu, 14 Jul 2005 14:23:05 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2195.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2202.aspx Thu, 14 Jul 2005 11:48:54 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2202.aspx More than 70 civil society organizations send a letter to the WB Executive Directors highlighting concerns about an increase in high-risk EI investment and the Bank’s lack of progress in implementing its EIR commitments. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2197.aspx Wed, 06 Jul 2005 15:12:57 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2197.aspx Read about the popular referendum on mining held in the town of Sipacapa, San Marcos, where ore from the Marlin Mine will be cyanide processed. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2191.aspx Fri, 01 Jul 2005 10:27:18 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2191.aspx The Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline was officially opened on May 25 with Presidential ceremony. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2131.aspx Tue, 31 May 2005 15:21:45 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2131.aspx Read the latest updates about the Camisea Gas Project: find out about the planned project expansion and learn more about where the royalties are really going. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2112.aspx Fri, 13 May 2005 16:29:21 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2112.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2104.aspx Thu, 05 May 2005 16:39:12 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2104.aspx Read a report on the Marlin Mine and the effects of foreign investment in mining in Guatemala from the perspective of those impacted by the industry. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2019.aspx Wed, 23 Mar 2005 12:21:26 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.2019.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1925.aspx Tue, 15 Feb 2005 12:58:17 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1925.aspx Several NGOs are demanding changes to the new policy, hoping to set the EBRD on a more sustainable and equitable energy development path. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1886.aspx Fri, 04 Feb 2005 13:38:32 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1886.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1774.aspx Tue, 30 Nov 2004 15:35:26 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1774.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1636.aspx Wed, 22 Sep 2004 14:05:57 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1636.aspx On June 18, 2004, World Bank Group Management issued its final response to the EIR for a 30-day public comment period, through July 18, 2004. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1494.aspx Mon, 28 Jun 2004 11:40:16 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1494.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1495.aspx Mon, 28 Jun 2004 10:59:38 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1495.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1472.aspx Wed, 09 Jun 2004 20:22:28 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1472.aspx Sign-on letters, public statements and press coverage reflect mounting pressure on the World Bank Group to implement EIR recommendations. World Bank management will submit its response to the recommendations and proposed action plan to the Board of Directors for discussion some time in June 2004. http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1361.aspx Fri, 07 May 2004 20:11:21 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1361.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1405.aspx Tue, 13 Apr 2004 20:59:27 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1405.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1404.aspx Tue, 13 Apr 2004 20:34:09 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1404.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1403.aspx Tue, 13 Apr 2004 20:00:21 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1403.aspx The final report of the Extractive Industries Review specifically recommends that the World Bank Group promote transparency in revenue flows, set up independent grievance mechanisms, improve access to information at the local level.... http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1357.aspx Wed, 10 Mar 2004 17:15:58 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1357.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1362.aspx Wed, 11 Feb 2004 20:32:23 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1362.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1292.aspx Fri, 06 Feb 2004 12:56:49 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1292.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1192.aspx Tue, 27 Jan 2004 15:01:17 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1192.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1200.aspx Mon, 12 Jan 2004 16:07:25 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.1200.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.573.aspx Sun, 11 Jan 2004 16:34:25 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.573.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.572.aspx Sun, 11 Jan 2004 16:18:59 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.572.aspx http://bicusa.org/en/Article.571.aspx Sun, 11 Jan 2004 15:11:16 GMT http://bicusa.org/en/Article.571.aspx