Extraction of Natural Resources: Is it fueling of human rights abuses in the exploration and exploitation of oil and gas in Tanzania?

Abstract

This article examines the relationship between business practices in the extraction of oil and gas and human rights in Tanzania. The United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights requires a state to protect against human rights abuses by third parties that includes business enterprises, through appropriate policies, regulations and adjudication. The guidelines also emphasize on corporate responsibility to protect human rights, which means that business enterprises should act in due diligence to avoid infringing on the rights of others and address adverse impacts with which they are involved. There must be greater access by victims to effective remedy, both judicial and non-judicial. The March 2013 demonstrations in Mtwara and Lindi Regions are case studies that demonstrate the need for policy which
reflects the guidelines so as to protect the human rights of all.

* Associate Professor, United States International University-Africa, Nairobi, E-mail ssungi@usiu.ac.ke