The U.S. Export-Import Bank is poised to approve funding for the Mozambique LNG project, despite significant concerns over human rights violations and environmental impacts. Multiple investigations are ongoing, questioning the project’s consequences, and critics assert that the administration’s support undermines humanitarian efforts.
The board of directors at the U.S. Export-Import Bank (EXIM) is expected to approve support for the Mozambique LNG project operated by Total Energies. This project has raised serious concerns due to reported human rights violations related to its security operations. Among these concerns are independent investigations by multiple authorities regarding abuses by Mozambique’s security forces and the actions of Total Energies during the Palma Massacre in 2021.
The Dutch government has initiated an inquiry into the reported abuses, while the Mozambican Attorney General’s office is preparing a case against unidentified individuals involved. Additionally, the French state prosecutor is investigating Total for potential manslaughter charges linked to the massacre. A Coroner’s Court in London will investigate the murder of Philip Mawer, a British subcontractor involved in the project.
Critics, including Daniel Ribiero from Friends of the Earth Mozambique, argue that the human rights abuses, the armed conflict, environmental impacts, and dubious economic forecasts should deter investors. He remarked on the contradictory nature of U.S. financial support for the project amidst the Trump administration’s withdrawal of aid crucial for social services in Mozambique.
Kate DeAngelis, the Economic Policy Deputy Director for Friends of the Earth U.S., highlighted that the administration’s actions reflect a significant misallocation of taxpayer funds towards the fossil fuel sector, a stark contrast to aid aimed at humanitarian relief. Similarly, Simone Ogno of ReCommon critiqued that the U.S. EXIM is following the precedent set by Italian SACE in supporting Mozambique LNG without a thorough assessment of its social and environmental repercussions, showing a troubling alignment with Trump’s administration.
The Mozambique LNG project is unfolding within a nation struggling with democratic challenges and has faced significant protests. Responses from the Mozambican government have been severe, leading to multiple fatalities and unlawful detentions since October 2024.
In summary, the anticipated approval by the U.S. Export-Import Bank for the Mozambique LNG project raises urgent concerns regarding human rights violations and environmental impacts. Various investigations are underway, indicating the depth of the issues associated with the project. Critics maintain that U.S. support seems misaligned with humanitarian priorities, reflecting continued government investment in fossil fuels at the expense of social welfare.
Original Source: foe.org
