Burma: New report calls for transparency and local-benefits on Kaladan Project

Project should be the main beneficiaries of this large-scale infrastructure development. The report calls for full transparency and local public consultation and participation in the project.

Salai Za Uk Ling added, "The benefits of this project should go to the least advantaged communities.

Unless and until the essential elements of full transparency, public consultation and participation, and accountability are met, the Kaladan Project should be suspended."

As said by the speakers, this report has also scrutinized a number of possible negative impacts that may give troubles to local people because of the Kaladan Project.  Possible risks are likely to be happened such as the use of forced labor during project construction; land confiscation and forced eviction; disruption of and loss of livelihoods; increased presence of Burma Army troops; restrictions on freedom of movement and access to transportation; illegal taxation and extortion; pollution and environmental degradation; and violations of indigenous peoples' rights.

The report also mentions that natives living along the Kaladan Project areas have already been experienced by six major negative impacts. They are explicitly emerged as lack of consultation; lack of information and transparency; labor discrimination; land confiscation and forced relocation; threats to local cultural heritage; and ecological destruction.

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