In a recent development, United Nations (UN) human rights experts have raised concerns about the potential violation of human rights by Saudi Aramco, the state energy giant of Saudi Arabia. The experts have expressed their worries over the expansion of oil production by the company, citing the adverse impacts of such activities on human rights and their contribution to climate change.
This apprehension was conveyed through a letter authored by a group of unidentified UN human rights experts and directed to Saudi Aramco. While the specifics of the potential human rights violations stemming from oil production were not elaborated upon in the letter, various sources have indicated a link between fossil fuel exploitation and its detrimental effects on climate change, which can indirectly affect human rights.
Although the letter did not delve into the details, the Financial Times reported that Saudi Aramco holds the distinction of being the world's largest corporate emitter of CO2. However, this assertion has been contradicted by a ranking of global emitters compiled by the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP). As per the CDP, China Coal occupies the top position, accounting for 14.3% of total global emissions, while Saudi Aramco is placed second with 4.5%.
The UN experts also extended their concerns beyond Saudi Aramco itself by reaching out to the financial institutions that collaborate with the energy giant, including Citi and BNP Paribas. The experts cautioned these banks about the potential violation of human rights by their Saudi clients and suggested that their lack of action in response to such violations could be seen as enabling the situation.
The experts emphasized that businesses have a responsibility to prevent and address adverse impacts on human rights resulting from their activities, including those stemming from climate change. This aligns with the broader global discourse on corporate responsibility and sustainability.
“Businesses should avoid infringing on human rights by taking proactive steps to identify, prevent, mitigate and address adverse impacts with which they are involved, including impacts resulting from climate change,” the UN officials stated.
Notably, the authors of the letter did not provide a specific rationale for singling out Saudi Aramco for their concerns, leaving room for speculation about their motivations. Observers have questioned why other major emitters were not included in this communication.
As the world grapples with climate change and its cascading effects on various aspects of life, including human rights, this letter from UN experts raises important questions about the responsibilities of major corporations and financial institutions in addressing the interconnected challenges of environmental degradation and human rights protection.
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