Global Rights

Global Rights is working to increase the knowledge of civil society, host communities, industry leaders, and government officials in Nigeria about the human rights implications of the extractive industries that in part are fueling Africa’s current economic growth spurt.  Specifically, these industries require security arrangements that may appear to be extreme and run the risk of compromise of human rights among populations living in the midst of this development.
Global Rights is currently implementing a project that seeks remedies for the tragic consequences of unregulated artisanal gold mining in Zamfara State, Nigeria. There, over 400 children and young adults have died from acute lead poisoning.  We are developing a guide to the regulatory and institutional framework for solid mineral mining in Nigeria that will help communities understand roles and responsibilities with regard to artisanal gold mining.  Global Rights has begun work on a petition to the National Human Rights Commission on behalf of communities in Zamfara State to demand accountability from government for human rights violations arising from the lead poisoning disaster.
We are also working to promote the incorporation of the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (VPs) as a fundamental element in government agendas and business strategies.  The VPs, established in 2000 by a number of concerned parties dealing with this issue, involves governments, companies, and non-governmental organizations that promote principles to guide oil, gas, and mining companies in the provision of security for their operations in a manner that respects human rights. Among many positive outcomes, the VPs are designed to help create an investment climate more conducive to economic development and social advancement.
In Nigeria, gender based violence is also a significant issue, particularly among military units assigned to protect installations developed by extractive industries, oil being the most important.  Our paralegal services in those regions as well as the north of the country are an important service with which to address this pervasive issue.