Counting the Cost: corporations and human rights abuses in the Niger Delta
Counting the Cost implicates Shell in cases of serious violence in Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger Delta region from 2000 to 2010. The report uncovers how Shell’s routine payments to armed militants exacerbated conflicts, in one case leading to the destruction of Rumuekpe town where it is estimated that at least 60 people were killed. According to Platform’s report, Shell continues to rely on Nigerian government forces who have perpetrated systematic human rights abuses against local residents, including unlawful killings, torture and cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment.
more details

Blair envoy lobbied Iraq Prime Minister for BP 3 months after leaving post
New documents released today show that Tony Blair’s Iraq envoy, Sir Jeremy Greenstock, lobbied the Iraqi prime minister on behalf of BP just three months after leaving Iraq. On joining BP as special adviser in June 2004, Greenstock was ordered by the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments not to visit Iraq on business, nor have dealings with companies there, for six months. Just three months later however, he met Iraqi Prime Minister Ayad Allawi on BP business in London. The meeting was also attended by then BP chief executive Lord Browne.
more details