Complaint filed against Marsh over African pipeline project
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An Asheville, North Carolina-based non-governmental organization said Tuesday it filed a complaint with the Department of State against Marsh LLC over its broking relationship with an African pipeline project.
Inclusive Development International’s complaint, filed with 10 Uganda and Tanzania-based human rights and environmental organizations, alleges Marsh violated international guidelines for responsible business conduct by serving as insurance broker for the East African Crude Oil Pipeline.
The complaint alleges that by providing broking services, Marsh is contributing to serious harm the EACOP project has already or is expected to cause, including improper land acquisition processes, inadequate consultation with affected communities and irreversible harm to local ecosystems.
Marsh & McLennan Cos. Inc. declined to comment on the complaint, citing its long-standing policy of not confirming the identity of clients.
“We are committed to helping businesses develop low-carbon business models and manage risks associated with the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy,” the broker said in a statement.
