ACCR welcomes Woodside withdrawal from Myanmar

The Australasian Centre for Corporate Responsibility​ (ACCR) is welcoming the withdrawal of Woodside from Myanmar which was announced by the company today. The withdrawal comes almost  a year since the military launched a bloody coup that has killed an estimated 1,500 civilians.

Daisy Gardener, Director of Human Rights (ACCR) said:

“Security, peace and stability are good for business and good for shareholder outcomes. For the past year, the military in Myanmar has run a bloody campaign against its own people and the rule of law.

“Gas projects in Myanmar generate an estimated US$1 billion in foreign revenue for the military junta every year, so Woodside withdrawing permanently from the country deals a blow to their ability to buy weapons and fund future atrocities.

“The announcement by Woodside comes days after the 21 January announcement by TotalEnergies and Chevron Corp they are exiting Myanmar due to the “worsening” human rights situation and deteriorating rule of law. Shell has also recently announced that it will relinquish its gas exploration permits in the country.