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.

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 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.