Caucasus 
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BHRRC PageRecent Posts
Hydropower accounts for a huge portion of energy in Armenia, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan & Taijkistan and will play a crucial role in the energy transition. But human rights & environmental concerns threaten the sector’s sustainability.
Out of 3,000 inhabitants, only 200-300 have remained in Dastakert. The town is plagued by toxic substances, according to locals.
Strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPP) used by Lydian international, the tax haven listed mining company, against journalists and civil society as it presses forward with the Amulsar gold mine in Armenia, whilst the European Bank of Reconstruction and Development has stood by silently.
The world’s costliest Olympic Games, held in Russia in February 2014, were built on widespread and well-documented human rights abuses. This is just one example of the adverse impacts, when governments systematically fail to act to protect human rights in the face of business activities.
This study examines State obligations to prevent and redress corporate-related human rights violations under the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms.
Changing the law in favour of investors, sudden approval of controversial projects, unlawful construction of hydropower plants, illegal logging, or persecution of activists. These are some of the cases of accelerated undermining of human rights and destruction of the environment during the lockdown caused by the COVID-19 global pandemic.
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) stands out among multilateral development banks with the commitment of its shareholding countries to the fundamental principles of democracy and respect for human rights. As the EBRD celebrates its 30th anniversary, it is a perfect moment to reflect on the Bank’s track record, human rights policy framework and operational approach.
Businesses operating in such countries don’t seem to be concerned with human rights records of authoritarian governments, remaining silent, feigning ignorance or at worst helping authorities in their crackdown.
The Business & Human Rights Resource Centre analysed the human rights policies and performance of 30 extractives companies in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, with a focus on Armenia, Georgia, and Kazakhstan. In doing so, we aimed to draw attention to the major human rights risks and impacts within the region, as well as address the lack of information around business activities.
Businesses often contribute to the discrimination and disenfranchisement of transgender people in Armenia, and more broadly, in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Activist Lilit Martirosyan has faced violence and harassment, including from businesses, for her work advocating for trans rights.
