Polish companies lack guidance on social responsibility in the Global South
February 24, 2015 | Read more
Private businesses are playing an increasing role in development finance, but their involvement is one of the most controversial issues in the discussion on sustainable development. The Polish government’s support for businesses still lacks clear reference to international standards and guiding principles for operating in the Global South.
Agro business shooting star in Ukraine turns into nightmare for investors
February 18, 2015 | Read more
The story of the defaulted company Mriya Agro Holding shows what risks investors and creditors are willing to take in the pursuit of profit in Ukraine’s agribusiness. Major creditors, including the International Finance Corporation and export credit agencies have been left with little hopes of recoveries. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has escaped the financial loss by a hair’s-breadth.
EU priority gas pipeline faces fierce opposition in Italy
February 17, 2015 | Read more
The European Investment Bank recently confirmed plans to finance the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline from Greece via Albania to Italy. Yet a coalition of local mayors will do whatever it takes to stop the project.
European banks: it’s time to quit coal in Ukraine
February 13, 2015 | Read more
In a street action being held today in Kiev as part of the Global Divestment Day, Ukrainians call on public and private investors to end financing for fossil fuels, in particular coal, and instead invest in renewable energy sources which represent the only independent source for the country.
Montenegro’s government is pushing hard for the construction of a new unit at the Pljevlja lignite-fired power plant. NGOs are encouraging the major shareholder company to not give in to this pressure, writes Jelena Marojević Galić from Green Home.
Natural gas left, right and centre at Energy Union conference in Riga
February 11, 2015 | Read more
Massive infrastructure for transporting natural gas is shaping up to be a centre piece of the Energy Union put forward by the Juncker Commission. This was also the impression Bankwatch campaigners had at an Energy Union conference in Riga last week.
