EU softens stance on raw materials
A new communication from the EU shows that they have started to listen to the demands of Traidcraft’s ‘raw materials – raw deal’ campaign.
14 February 2011
In 2008 the EU launched its ‘Raw Materials Initiative’ which made public its intentions to use trade and investment agreements to secure cheap access to raw materials for European businesses. Traidcraft with partners across Europe, including Oxfam Germany, has been campaigning to put an end to this new scramble for Africa.
Earlier this month, an updated communication shows that some improvements have been made. The EU has acknowledged the need to strengthen developing countries ability to process raw materials. It also expresses concern about the volatility of markets and problems of food security.
Overall however, the communication shows that the EU’s position on raw materials is business as usual. The European Commission is still pressing for developing countries to ban or curb the use of export taxes and negotiate investment rules that give European companies unprecedented access to developing countries’ raw materials. And the EU still hasn’t taken up the challenge to better measure and reduce European consumption of raw materials.
Take action
Keep the pressure on the EU by sending a postcard to your Members of European Parliament
Find out more
Read more about the campaign, including our short ‘Questions and Answers'
