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
Mining boom in Mongolia
With huge amounts of unexploited natural resources (gold, copper, coal and more) the Mongolian economy is estimated to grow massively in the years to come. But will it also benefit the people in Mongolia? Our work shows how mining operations lead to pollution and displacement for local herders and exacerbate water scarcity issues.
Kumtor Gold Mine, Kyrgyzstan
The Kumtor open pit gold mine is located in a majestic surrounding in the Kyrgyzstan mountains. It receives continued support by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, despite several accidents in the past and ongoing environmental damages from the mining operations.
Latest news
Actions speak louder than words: gender equality policies in development banks
Blog entry | 8 March, 2021Promoting gender rights and women’s empowerment has become a trend among multilateral development banks (MDBs). Organising discussions on best practices and promoting gender-related issues is welcome, but it is crucial that banks ensure meaningful protection and support to the women most affected by international public investments.
Read moreVujadin Berberović, local activist who campaigned against Corridor Vc in Bosnia and Herzegovina, passes away
Press release | 10 February, 2021Bankwatch is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Vujadin Berberović, president of the Serb returnee association in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, who played a key role in mobilising his community to ensure the local residents are equal stakeholders in the development of the Corridor Vc project.
Read moreNEW REPORT: EU push for metals mining is a raw deal for people and environment
Press release | 28 January, 2021With a fair and digital transformation topping the priorities of the Portuguese EU presidency, the European Green Deal’s push for raw materials should not come at the expense of workers, local communities and nature, warns a new report from CEE Bankwatch Network.
Read moreRelated publications
Oyu Tolgoi Mine, Mongolia: A Raw Deal ICT metal mining case study
Study | 1 March, 2021 | Download PDFAs Mongolia’s flagship mine project, Oyu Tolgoi is often advertised as a world-class, sustainable, safe and energy-efficient mining project, but in reality, it has been subject to controversy on multiple occasions due to corruption scandals, tax disput
Bankwatch’s request to the EBRD Board regarding Corridor Vc South Mostar Section
Advocacy letter | 17 February, 2021 | Download PDFRequest to the EBRD Board Members regarding EBRD Management response to Bankwatch report “Connecting or Dividing?” and postponement of the decision on Corridor Vc.
A letter to the EBRD on Green Cities
Advocacy letter | 3 February, 2021 | Download PDFBankwatch and six of our NGO partners jointly drafted a letter and shared it with EBRD outlining the issues attached to specific cases we are following, as well as our recommendations to help EBRD infrastructure funding serve the needs of the communities and the environment.
