The US and UK Governments claim that commitments they made at the Johannesburg Summit relate to existing feeble voluntary measures and not to the `full development’ of an international framework for corporate accountability as promised. The G8 was set to make follow-up commitments to the Johannesburg commitments, and the “Charter of Principles” was set to be a concrete centre piece at the Evian Summit.
Instead of the `Charter of Principles’, G8 Finance Ministers and world leaders are pressing for an investment agreement under the World Trade Organisation (WTO) which would secure more rights for multinationals to take developing world countries to court if these countries try to improve operating standards or favour national enterprises.
Friends of the Earth England, Wales and Northern Ireland Campaigner Matt Phillips said:
“It looks as though the power and influence of big business is taking precedence over the rights of affected citizens and communities. The G8 leaders are walking away from the promises they made just a few months ago in Johannesburg.”
“Multinationals from the G8 countries are involved in conflicts and controversies all around the world. Leaders from the G8 countries must ensure that corporations are properly held to account for their offences.”
Bobby Peek of Friends of the Earth South Africa said:
“The G8 has invited a few developing countries to Evian this year, but the reality is that this exclusive club of the richest nations is simply failing all developing countries.”
Note
The G8 comprises Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia and the United States.