This publication provides an overview of claims filed in Canadian courts containing allegations of environmental or human rights abuse overseas related to the operations of Canadian extractive companies or companies within their corporate group. We examine the outcomes and implications of each case, as well as the challenges inherent in transnational litigation of this nature.
Social justice groups are urging Ottawa to fulfill a pledge to crack down on human rights abuse involving Canadian multinationals after legal action was filed today against Barrick Gold in an Ontario Court.
Problems in the construction of a hydroelectric dam financed in part by Canada led to a flooding disaster in northwestern Colombia in 2018, forcing the evacuation of tens of thousands of people. Four years later, locals are still suffering the consequences, with no remedy from Canada in sight.
Groundbreaking corporate accountability legislation was tabled in Canada’s Parliament today. These two bills would, if passed, help protect people and the planet, and they deserve all-party support.
The draft model law would require Canadian firms to respect human rights throughout their global operations and supply chains.
Writing in the Business and Human Rights Journal, our director Karyn Keenan relates how promises of a robust watchdog to investigate complaints against Canadian multinationals gave way to an office that lacks the powers to do its job.
Today all fourteen civil society and labour union members of the government’s responsible business advisory body resigned, citing an erosion of trust in the government’s commitment to corporate accountability.
Fifteen months ago, the government announced it would create an independent office with the power to investigate abuses by Canadian companies operating abroad. Instead, it unveiled today a powerless advisory post, little different from what has already existed for years.
Ongoing media coverage regarding the sale of a Bombardier jet to the Gupta family has triggered an important public debate about the accountability and transparency of Export Development Canada. With Parliament set to review EDC’s governing legislation this year, the timing for such a discussion could not be better.
Above Ground works to ensure that companies based in Canada or supported by the Canadian state respect human rights and the environment worldwide. It is a project of MakeWay, a national charity that builds partnerships and solutions to help nature and communities thrive together.
Above Ground c/o MakeWay
400-163 West Hastings Street
Vancouver, BC V6B 1H5
438-992-5163
