11.11.11 et al vs. Belgolaise

Allegations

In October 2002, a United Nations Panel of Experts accused 85 OECD-based companies of violating the Guidelines for their direct or indirect roles in the illegal exploitation of natural resources in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Panel alleged that “elite networks” of political and military elites and businesspersons fueled the conflict in order to retain their control over the country’s vast natural resources. In November, 2004, a group of Belgian NGOs filed a complaint against George Forrest International SA, Cogecom, Nami Gems and Belgolaise Bank.

Relevant OECD Guidelines

• Version 2000 Chapter II
• Version 2000 Chapter II Paragraph II.1
• Version 2000 Chapter II Paragraph II.6
• Version 2000 Chapter II Paragraph II.7

Outcome

The case against Belgolaise was rejected due to the existence of ongoing legal procedures. The complainants note that the NCP’s decision was never formally communicated. They learned about the NCP’s decision in the OECD’s annual report in 2005.

More details

Related complaints

• 11.11.11 et al vs. George Forrest International SA
• 11.11.11 et al vs. Cogecom
• 11.11.11 et al vs. Nami Gems

Documents

• 15 June 2005

  The NCP rejected the case due to the existence of ongoing legal procedures.

  NCP Belgium
• file

  24 November 2004

  A group of 15 Belgian NGOs filed a complaint at the Belgian NCP against Belgolaise Bank for its involvement in the illegal exploitation of natural resources in the DRC.

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