Death Toll Continues To Increase, French Energy Giant EDF Has Postponed A IDR 21.5 Trillion Hydropower Project In Myanmar
JAKARTA - The French energy giant Électricité de France (EDF) has decided to postpone the Hydroelectric Power Plant (PLTA) project worth more than $ 1.5 billion or around IDR 21.5 trillion.
The project, located in Shan State, was put on hold as human rights issues grew serious as Myanmar's military regime continued to use lethal force to confront the February 1 anti-coup protesters.
EDF obtained a Notice to Proceed for the project in 2018 ago. The EDF is expected to generate 3 billion kWh of electricity annually for the national grid, supplying electrical energy to more than 8.5 million people across Myanmar.
To human rights groups Justice for Myanmar and Info Birmanie (France), EDF notified the suspension of development of the Shweli-3 Project, including its subcontractor activities. The 671 MW project was worked on by EDF together with Marubeni Corporation Japan and Myanmar Ayeyar Hinthar Company.
EDF emphasized that they adhere to basic human rights principles and International Labor Organization conventions, as well as the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, in every project it participates in. Therefore, the EDF continues to monitor the development of the military coup in Myanmar and coordinate with the French and European Union authorities.
Justice for Myanmar and Info Birmanie welcomed this. They said continuing the project would involve them in business with the Myanmar military regime, which deliberately kills peaceful protesters, commits crimes against humanity.
Info Birmanie coordinator Sophie Brondel said EDF's decision to suspend the Shweli-3 hydropower project was a milestone, pointing the way forward for French companies in Myanmar.
"We specifically call on all companies with links to the junta to cut these ties. Businesses have a responsibility to stand on the side of democracy and ensure they don't push the junta. The status quo is not an option", said Brondel, launching The Irrawaddy.
As of Saturday, March 20, at least 238 people have died since Myanmar's military coup on February 1, after a man was shot at one of the protesters' bases in Yangon, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP).
Myanmar Coup. The VOI editorial team continues to monitor the political situation in one of the ASEAN member countries. Casualties from civilians continue to fall. Readers can follow the news surrounding the Myanmar military coup by tapping on this link.