Oil and gas company Total has used its first CSR report to defend its presence in Burma (Myanmar).
The French multinational argues that its withdrawal from the junta-ruled country would have ‘negative consequences for the country and for human rights’.
It says the economic and social impact of its offshore gas operation in Burma has brought ‘a degree of peace and prosperity’ to around 43,000 Burmese nationals living nearby, which equates to one in every 1000 of the country’s inhabitants. Its social economic programme has also helped reduce death rates from malaria, respiratory disease and digestive illnesses.
Total supports these claims with data from a US-based consultancy, Collaborative for Development Action, which visited the country to assess the company’s social and economic impact. CDA said interviews with 63 villagers living near the pipeline suggested Total was a buffer between them and the worst practices of the state. All but one of the interviewees said the withdrawal of Total would have a negative effect.
Italian sportswear company Lotto is to stop sourcing clothes from Burma.