Whether in Europe or beyond, public money must not become an auxiliary for human rights violations or the marginalisation of affected communities.
We expose cases where development banks fail to protect those impacted by their projects.
We advocate for participation and consultation processes that are not pro-forma exercises, but a tool to ensure people’s well-being.
Close to frontline communities
We’re in direct contact with affected communities and provide updates from their struggles.
Image (c) Rosa Vroom
Where rights are on the line
The Khada Valley, Georgia
The Khada Valley in Georgia brings together exceptional biodiversity, precious cultural and archeological heritage, and mountainous villages which have preserved rich traditions and historical lifestyles. But all of this might vanish if a 23-kilometer road from Georgia to Russia – the Kvesheti-Kobi project – is built.
Amulsar gold mine, Armenia
Since 2016 the controversial Amulsar gold mine project is being developed by Armenia’s largest foreign investor, an international mining company Lydian, near the touristic spa town of Jermuk.
Just transition
Working on just transition brings all actors who believe in fair regional redevelopment to the same table: unions, industry, public administration, governments, civil society and others sharing this goal. They should be working together to find what is best for their regions and communities, from creating good quality jobs to identifying sustainable alternatives.
Latest news
Serbia’s renewable energy law must prioritise both environmental and financial sustainability
Blog entry | 13 January, 2021As Serbia starts the development of a new renewable energy law, it needs to prevent more public money being used for environmentally damaging hydropower projects and make its incentives scheme more financially sustainable.
Read moreEU state aid rules must finally end environmentally harmful subsidies for energy projects
Blog entry | 12 January, 2021As the European Commission reviews its Guidelines on State Aid for Environmental Protection and Energy, it must finally stop subsidies for activities contradicting EU climate and environment policies.
Read moreEU Ombudsman launches investigation into financing of Europe’s largest fossil fuels project
Press release | 17 December, 2020The European Investment Bank (EIB) has dangerously downplayed the contribution of the controversial Southern Gas Corridor to the unfolding climate crisis, according to a complaint that prompted the European Ombudsman to open a formal inquiry.
Read moreRelated publications
CEE Bankwatch Network additional input for the EEAG public consultation
Official document | 12 January, 2021 | Download PDFCEE Bankwatch Network additional input for the EEAG public consultation
Pollution of land, surface and groundwater near the slag and ash disposal site of Tuzla thermal power plant
Study | 18 December, 2020 | Download PDFFrom 1 March – 31 August 2020, an analysis of water and soil samples was conducted in the area of influence of the closed slag and ash disposal sites in Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) – Plane, Divkovići I, Divkovići II, Drežnik and Jezero I – as w
The EIB’s empty promises on human rights
Briefing | 12 November, 2020 | Download PDFThis briefing is extracted from a broader report carried out by NGOs CEE Bankwatch Network and Counter Balance regarding the European Investment Bank’s (EIB) track record in the development field. Over the last decades, in solidarity with numerous citi
