Changing the position of the European Commission
AIM: to incorporate poor countries’ concerns around raw materials into the Commission’s Raw Materials Initiative
The first communication from the European Commission on raw materials (the 'Raw Materials Initiative' (opens in PDF) or RMI) was released in March 2008 – as a result of intense lobbying from big European businesses. The potential damaging consequences for poor countries development prospects or the natural environment were not properly accounted for – and we wanted to change this!
PROGRESS
An updated version of the RMI was released in February this year and it at least in part reflects the pressure that civil society has put on the Commission. The rhetoric and tone towards developing countries has softened or become more balanced, with the emphasis on the need for multilateral dialogue. There is also more flexibility on policies that could help poor countries protect their natural environment and develop their industry.
In Karel De Gucht’s (the EU Trade Commissioner) most recent speech, he acknowledges the criticisms of the RMI and the ‘need to address development needs… and respond to the environmental aspects that arise out of production and trade of raw materials’. This is progress!
Debate in the European Parliament
AIM: to raise awareness of the potential damaging effects of the RMI with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs)
The Lisbon Treaty has given MEPs more say on trade policy – therefore postcards, letters and lobby meetings with these representatives has more of an impact on trade policy than it used to. It has been an important part of the campaign to raise the awareness of MEPs of our development and environmental concerns with the RMI.
PROGRESS
As a result, MEPs have become more engaged on this matter. The European Social Democrats and the Green Party have both held public hearings on this subject, with representatives from our campaigning coalition were invited to attend and contribute.
Building up the pressure on raw materials
AIM: to build a strong, active movement for a fair approach to raw materials
The RMI impacts on many different policy areas for poor countries – from their development aims, to the environment or how their businesses can operate. We wanted to bring together experts from these different fields to tackle the challenges of the RMI head on.
PROGRESS
Traidcraft has been working with four other organisations across Europe (including Oxfam) on the raw materials campaign, with our supporters and staff engaged in campaigning and lobbying activity.
The potential far-reaching implications of the RMI have moved a diverse network of campaigning groups to take action on raw materials – this is now an active, long-term movement to put a fair and sustainable approach to raw materials at the heart of EU trade and investment policy.
What next?
We will continue to carry out research in issues related to natural resources and identify opportunities to influence EU policy in this area. This includes raising our concerns as part of the consultation on the EU’s ‘Trade and Development Communication’ later this year.
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