http://www.bicusa.org/en/Region.4.aspx The latest news on Latin America from the Bank Information Center 10 http://www.infodev.org/images/infodev.gif http://www.bicusa.org/en/Region.4.aspx The outgoing World Bank Country Manager for Brazil, Mahktar Diop, challenges the conclusions of an evaluation by Bank Information Center of the $1.3 billion Sustainable Environmental Management Development Policy to promote environmental reforms in Brazil. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12592.aspx Wed, 25 Jan 2012 11:39:11 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12592.aspx New report by Amazonian indigenous peoples exposes the reality of REDD+ in Peru and proposes solutions. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12581.aspx Thu, 15 Dec 2011 10:18:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12581.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12571.aspx Mon, 28 Nov 2011 14:12:49 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12571.aspx A new evaluation of a $1.3 billion World Bank development policy loan to promote sustainability reforms at the Brazilian National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) that questions the effectiveness of DPLs due to weaknesses in existing Bank policy guiding their design and execution. This brief calls for the reform of Bank DPL policy as an urgent part of the ongoing revision of World Bank safeguard policies to ensure consistent management of risk across all World Bank operations. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12554.aspx Thu, 20 Oct 2011 10:30:54 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12554.aspx Read the latest REDD Alert for updates on the R-Package, Carbon Fund and Common Approach, as well as country updates from Africa, Latin America and Asia. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12550.aspx Mon, 17 Oct 2011 16:53:20 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12550.aspx This update prepared by the Bank Information Center introduces the FCPF Readiness Package (R-Package) and the Carbon Fund (CF) operational. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12545.aspx Thu, 13 Oct 2011 16:21:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12545.aspx The irregularity of the voluntary market of carbon credits is outpacing the environmental and legislative capacity of the country: irregular transfer of millions of hectares of forests as part of the market for carbon credits and other environmental services. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12544.aspx Fri, 07 Oct 2011 13:14:26 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12544.aspx The workshop Oslo REDD Exchange 2011 was organized by Norway’s International Climate and Forest Initiative (NICFI) and the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad), on 23-24 June 2011. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12531.aspx Thu, 01 Sep 2011 14:35:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12531.aspx It took many years to establish the World Bank's operational policies that safeguard society and the environment, and are some of the world's highest development standards. As the Bank reviews these policies, civil society is organizing efforts to present their concerns and expectations, and offer their imputs as to what the outcome of the review should be. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12528.aspx Wed, 31 Aug 2011 15:01:29 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12528.aspx Granting titles to large companies and individuals in national parks and other protected ecosystems is controversial because it was an openly illegal action. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12522.aspx Mon, 15 Aug 2011 11:54:54 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12522.aspx According to the MPF, the evaluation of impacts of hydroelectric plants has been partial and does not reflect the true environmental risks. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12521.aspx Mon, 15 Aug 2011 11:32:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12521.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12520.aspx Thu, 11 Aug 2011 15:29:21 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12520.aspx The disimbursement of the funds for the third section of the Villa Tunari-San Ignacio de Moxos highway is now being withheld until the preservation of the ecosystem in the Indigenous Territory in the Isiboro Sécure National Park (TIPNIS) is guaranteed, a commitment by the government of Evo Morales to Brazil. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12519.aspx Thu, 11 Aug 2011 15:18:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12519.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12518.aspx Thu, 11 Aug 2011 08:42:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12518.aspx Brazilian companies are more interested in entering the Peruvian market and its accumulated investments will likely exceed US$10 billion by 2016. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12517.aspx Thu, 11 Aug 2011 08:29:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12517.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12516.aspx Thu, 11 Aug 2011 08:24:33 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12516.aspx With gold’s price soaring globally as the metal became a hedge against financial uncertainty, the army of small-scale miners in the state of Madre de Dios has swelled to some 40,000. The result: Diesel exhaust sullies the air, trees are toppled to get at the sandy, gold-flecked earth and the scars inflicted on the land are visible on satellite photos. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12514.aspx Tue, 09 Aug 2011 12:20:31 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12514.aspx Despite high interest rates and high household electricity tariffs, Brazilian economy has been growing at the highest rates seen in decades. Another problem that, although not in the way of growth, must be overcome is the costly use of roads for transporting farm products – issue being addressed by the expansion of railway networks. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12513.aspx Tue, 09 Aug 2011 11:44:53 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12513.aspx The lack of free, prior and informed consent to upstream oil and gas operations is at the heart of many social conflicts in the Peruvian Amazon http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12511.aspx Fri, 05 Aug 2011 14:57:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12511.aspx Once updated the productivity rates, as required by law, Brazil has experienced a huge expansion of the inventory of properties subject to expropriation. Taking the data from 2010, there are in Brazil, 69 200 large unproductive properties, with an area equivalent to 228.5 million hectares. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12510.aspx Fri, 05 Aug 2011 14:54:06 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12510.aspx En COP 15, México se comprometió a reducir sus emisiones de GEI, para lo cual se propuso desarrollar la Estrategia Nacional REDD+ (ENAREDD+). A varios pasos de la preparación para la estrategia, el BM ahora realiza una misión Due Diligence. La gerente del equipo de Latinoamérica, observadora para la misión, nos cuenta más sobre el tema. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12505.aspx Fri, 29 Jul 2011 17:27:53 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12505.aspx Indigenous groups vow to march over forest highway plan. Morales is now facing protests from within Indian support base. This situation is an example of the struggle to balance development with cultural identity. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12503.aspx Thu, 28 Jul 2011 16:00:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12503.aspx Makatar Diop, the director of Brazil responds to civil society about their inquiry on the transparency of the activity involving DPLs between the World Bank and BNDES. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12502.aspx Mon, 25 Jul 2011 17:18:36 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12502.aspx The project will require an investment of some US$118mn, being financed to the tune of US$103mn by a World Bank loan and US$15mn in counterpart funding by the La Paz government. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12501.aspx Sun, 24 Jul 2011 22:45:15 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12501.aspx The Inambari Hydroelectric Complex (2000 MW), will only be a Brazilian enclave within Peru, at the cost of environmental degradation and violation of the rights of communities. Nevertheless, it must be built by the state of Peru alongside other nations in order to sell the energy produced. This investment could be recovered in 2 years. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12500.aspx Sun, 24 Jul 2011 21:35:59 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12500.aspx In 2010, the Brazilian direct investment in Peru was US$1.014 billion, almost triple that in 2009, when it was $492 million . The Chamber of Commerce Peru-Brazil (Capebras) estimated investment to reach $32 billion in 2016. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12499.aspx Sun, 24 Jul 2011 21:17:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12499.aspx The Peruvian legislature has approved an additional payment to complete the Southern Interoceanic Highway, linking the Andean country with Brazil. The highway is expected to be completed in 2012 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12498.aspx Sun, 24 Jul 2011 20:51:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12498.aspx Brazilian chancellor, Antonio Patriota, said in Quito that Brazil will more forward with the project that will conect Manaos in the Brazilian Amazon with Manta on the Pacific Coast of Ecuador, and that will enhance intra-regional commerce, but also between South America and Asia. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12497.aspx Fri, 22 Jul 2011 17:30:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12497.aspx As an Australian businessman moves into Peru in search of making a profit off of the riches of the Amazonian carbon offsets, critics in Peru fear that he will only exploit the most vulnerable people. There is currently no regulation on this sort of activity due to the lack of international agreement on REDD. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12496.aspx Fri, 22 Jul 2011 12:08:10 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12496.aspx A new Greenpeace report Bad Influence has revealed how advice given by global consultancy firm McKinsey to national governments could lead to an increase in the destructive logging it is intended to prevent. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12480.aspx Thu, 07 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12480.aspx A new Greenpeace report Bad Influence has revealed how advice given by global consultancy firm McKinsey to national governments could lead to an increase in the destructive logging it is intended to prevent. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12479.aspx Thu, 07 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12479.aspx BIC recently attended the eighth meeting of the FCPF Participants Committee in our role as the NGO observer. Presented here is a summary of the proceedings. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12478.aspx Tue, 12 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12478.aspx BIC recently attended the eighth meeting of the FCPF Participants Committee in our role as the NGO observer. Presented here is a summary of the proceedings. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12477.aspx Tue, 12 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12477.aspx The document presents guidance on the key elements of effective stakeholder engagement in the context of REDD+ readiness for the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility and the UN-REDD Programme. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12474.aspx Fri, 29 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12474.aspx The Bank Information Center and Forest Peoples Programme have provided comments on the Revised R-PP Template, SESA and ESMF Guidelines. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12471.aspx Fri, 29 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12471.aspx This report from the Bank Information Center as NGO Observer summarizes the main discussions and outcomes from PC9 in Oslo, Norway. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12470.aspx Tue, 12 Jul 2011 15:47:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12470.aspx This report from the Bank Information Center as NGO Observer summarizes the main discussions and outcomes from PC9 in Oslo, Norway. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12469.aspx Tue, 12 Jul 2011 15:39:59 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12469.aspx At the same time it is funding a dam that will devastate indigenous lands and block the Xingu River, Brazil's National Development Bank (BNDES) may allocate some $14.3 million (BRL 22.3 million) in grants for projects developed within the Kayapo indigenous lands, reports Conservation International. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12467.aspx Tue, 12 Jul 2011 11:05:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12467.aspx The BNDES’s preposterous involvement in the corporate dispute between French multinationals over the Pão-de-Açúcar supermarket chain shows that the state-owned bank has strayed far from its original mission. What exactly is the BNDES’s role nowadays? http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12466.aspx Tue, 12 Jul 2011 10:07:01 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12466.aspx With emotionally-charged messages, the representatives of indigenous communities marched against the construction of a highway that would split the TIPNIS in two, arguing that its construction allows for the ethnocide of communities who arduosly worked for the park to become an Originative Communal Land (TCO). (Spanish). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12464.aspx Fri, 08 Jul 2011 11:15:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12464.aspx The World Bank, the Technical Advisory Panel, and the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility present their comments on the latest draft of the the Colombia R-PP. (Document links). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12459.aspx Thu, 07 Jul 2011 16:27:34 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12459.aspx Peru submits their fourth version to the FCPF Participants Committee at their eight meeting in March 23-25. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12458.aspx Thu, 07 Jul 2011 14:18:08 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12458.aspx The Regional Aliance for Free Expression and Information sent an open letter to President of Brasil Dilma Rousseff http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12457.aspx Tue, 05 Jul 2011 14:23:53 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12457.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12456.aspx Tue, 21 Jun 2011 17:11:21 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12456.aspx After nearly three years and numerous endeavors, the Carabayan clamor attains the cancellation of the Inambari Hydroelectric dam construction, and not precisely due to the consent of the central government, but because the situation grew unsustainable alongside other unrealized social and environmental problems in the Puno region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12454.aspx Mon, 20 Jun 2011 13:05:59 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12454.aspx Though the success of Latin America's largest economy is well known, less recognized is how much it owes to massive government lending. For a sense of the scale: The development bank's loans last year, just within Brazil, totaled triple the amount the World Bank lent to more than 100 countries. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12449.aspx Tue, 14 Jun 2011 22:37:34 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12449.aspx Only Brazilian extractive industries will benefit from Peru's planned sale of energy to that country, through the energy agreement that was signed with the South American superpower, and that is currently awaiting approval by the Congress. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12444.aspx Tue, 31 May 2011 11:36:33 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12444.aspx The World Bank and the Government of Bolivia recognize the observations of the TCO Takana I on deficiencies in the Indigenous Peoples Plan of the Ixiamas - San Buenaventura Highway project and accept to start a process to improve the Indiginous Plan even after the project was approved. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12438.aspx Wed, 18 May 2011 14:29:10 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12438.aspx Over the last decade, the Mexican government has received significant sums in loans from multilateral institutions such as the IDB and WB and the governments of Norway and Germany for climate change-related initiatives. Yet there has been no assessment of the environmental outcomes achieved through this increase in external debt. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12434.aspx Mon, 09 May 2011 10:42:02 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12434.aspx Banco Santander Brasil SA denied it temporarily suspended financing for the Santo Antonio hydroelectric dam in Brazil’s Amazon region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12433.aspx Mon, 09 May 2011 10:32:09 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12433.aspx The construction of the Peru-Brazil Southern Interoceanic Corridor (IIRSA SUR) has generated economic benefits worth US$3 billion, reported the President of Peru’s Supervisory Board for Investment in Public Transport Infrastructure (Ositran), Juan Carlos Zevallos. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12432.aspx Sat, 07 May 2011 09:56:33 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12432.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12427.aspx Thu, 28 Apr 2011 10:37:28 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12427.aspx The President of Ecuador, Rafael Correa, informed that there is international interest to support the Manta-Manaos project. He said that during the Chancellor's (Ricardo Patiño) trip to the Middle East, there was an evaluation of the posibility of investment on this waterway which connects Ecuador to Peru and Brazil. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12423.aspx Fri, 22 Apr 2011 17:00:20 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12423.aspx The National Government is committed ot develop the logistical zones in the country. Manta has demonstrated its great potential in this strategy because it will not only connect Manta with all of Ecuador, and also with Manaos in Brazil, but will also become Asia's Entry Point into America. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12419.aspx Thu, 21 Apr 2011 10:32:04 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12419.aspx The company Transportes Bertolini and the National Government will push the construction of the necessary infrastructure for an economically viable line of river and ground transport between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12418.aspx Thu, 21 Apr 2011 09:40:38 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12418.aspx The 2011 completion of the 3,400-mile Transoceanic Highway nears, connecting the Amazonian state of Acre in Brazil with the southern Pacific coast of Peru. Supported by governmental and multi-national development interests, it promises to internationalize Brazilian agricultural products, while improving mobility across the region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12417.aspx Wed, 20 Apr 2011 13:48:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12417.aspx Gold-hungry Peruvian miners are eroding the country's portion of the Amazon rainforest at an alarming rate, according to a new study. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12416.aspx Wed, 20 Apr 2011 10:22:36 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12416.aspx A report released yesterday by the Bank divides the region into two distinct groups: the first, led by Brazil and comprised of the countries of South America, is at the forefront of growth. The second, with Mexico at the head, and which also includes Central America and the Caribbean, is progressing at a slower pace. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12410.aspx Sun, 10 Apr 2011 11:40:22 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12410.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12409.aspx Sun, 10 Apr 2011 09:53:51 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12409.aspx The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights considered that Indigenous Peoples must be consulted BEFORE the dam’s construction begins http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12401.aspx Tue, 05 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12401.aspx The project has a great potential to reorder and even positively or negatively change the dinamics of development and conservation in the region. Bolivia's government has decided that the PAD will not be public before it's approved. It seems that the project underestimates its indirect influence, and there are shortcomings in planification and consultation. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12399.aspx Mon, 04 Apr 2011 16:58:07 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12399.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12400.aspx Mon, 04 Apr 2011 17:22:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12400.aspx A few days before the presidential elections, the party Peru Posible's (PP) spokesman Carlos Bruce, signed the Environmental Agreement, an initiative that seeks after environemtal proposals and commitments for the political parties that will participate in the elections on April 10th. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12398.aspx Tue, 29 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12398.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12396.aspx Tue, 29 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12396.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12394.aspx Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12394.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12393.aspx Mon, 28 Mar 2011 12:48:55 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12393.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12392.aspx Sun, 27 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12392.aspx Peru approved the 4th version of its R-PP at the 8th meeting of the FCPF Participants Committee in Da Lat. They agreed to incorporate some inputs they discussed with Indigenous Peoples and Mesa REDD Peru. The changes will be added to the next version. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12391.aspx Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12391.aspx Five country delegation of civil society organizations are at the IDB Annual Meeting of Governors in Calgary, Canada to monitor implementation of reforms that were agreed a year ago in exchange for a $70 Billion capital increase. Reform areas of critical focus include social and environmental safeguards, climate strategy, and results management. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12390.aspx Mon, 28 Mar 2011 00:19:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12390.aspx Brazilian security forces have been sent to the Jirau dam construction site where work has been stopped since riots erupted last week over working conditions. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12389.aspx Mon, 28 Mar 2011 00:13:49 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12389.aspx Read the latest REDD Alert for updates on the 8th Meeting of the FCPF Participants Committee, taking place next week in Da Lat, Vietnam. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12380.aspx Fri, 18 Mar 2011 11:50:12 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12380.aspx Guyana has seen deforestation rates soar over the last year, despite the signing of an agreement with the Norwegian government aimed precisely at supporting a reduction in deforestation rates, said Global Witness today. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12378.aspx Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12378.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12377.aspx Sat, 12 Mar 2011 22:43:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12377.aspx MPX, energy company in the group of businessman Eike Batista, yesterday announced a capitalization of $ 1.3 billion to finance projects in Brazil and Colombia. The company will issue convertible debentures into common shares, based on the fixed price of $ 43 per share. The holding company of BNDES (BNDESPar) will participate in the capitalization of nearly half the subscription of the issue: U.S. $ 600 million in debentures. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12376.aspx Sat, 12 Mar 2011 22:33:38 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12376.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12375.aspx Wed, 09 Mar 2011 17:07:01 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12375.aspx Built by Paraguay and Argentina, the Yacyretá Binational Dam continues to cause serious environmental damage, compromising future generations. After a delay of 37 years, its final cost was almost ten times higher than originally budgeted. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12363.aspx Sun, 27 Feb 2011 08:57:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12363.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12362.aspx Thu, 24 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12362.aspx Con 45 millones de habitantes, estabilidad economica, y oportunidades en el carbon y el petroleo, Colombia ha entrado al radar de inversionistas Brasileños. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12361.aspx Tue, 22 Feb 2011 12:36:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12361.aspx As the Brazilian Treasury and BNDES look into the role that subsidies will play in the future of South America, Roberto Smeraldi of Friends of the Earth Brazil discusses how the question is not one of subsidies or not, but rather what subsidies will apply. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12360.aspx Wed, 16 Feb 2011 20:28:55 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12360.aspx Despite recent internal reforms, new evidence raises questions about bank quality control. In direct contrast to IDB management claims, the OVE evaluation found the actual evaluability of projects has deteriorated markedly when measured using a consistent methodology applied to three cohorts of projects. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12359.aspx Tue, 15 Feb 2011 21:25:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12359.aspx Civil society sent a letter to President Luis Alberto Moreno expressing their support, yet concern and strong disagreement with parts of the report’s analysis which, if misinterpreted, could negatively affect the integrity of the principles of sustainability in Bank operations. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12357.aspx Tue, 15 Feb 2011 17:10:19 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12357.aspx As the World Bank sets out to review and update its Safeguard Policy framework over the next two years, the Operational Policy 8.60 governing the use of DPLs should be included in that review. This brief identifies five areas of DPL policy guidance that merit revision and could guide a full DPL evaluation. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12351.aspx Fri, 04 Feb 2011 14:45:40 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12351.aspx Brazil, with a homicide rate of 25.3 per 100,000 inhabitants, Jamaica, with 32.4, Belize, with 32.7, Colombia, with 37.3, Venezuela, with 48, South Africa, with 49.6, and El Salvador, with 61, all ranked above Mexico, http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12350.aspx Thu, 03 Feb 2011 19:39:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12350.aspx The growing presence of Chinese and Brazilian capital in Latin America's energy sector is facilitating the construction of hydroelectric complexes, but is also the fuelling nationalist stances that are adding to the environmental criticisms of those major projects. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12349.aspx Thu, 03 Feb 2011 16:36:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12349.aspx Just a month after World Bank $500 million DPL payment to Brazil, followed by $614 million BNDES bridge loan to Belo Monte builders, New Dilma Government approves fast-track forest clearance and commencement of controversial Belo Monte construction site. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12346.aspx Sun, 30 Jan 2011 10:46:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12346.aspx It seems that the Government has forgotten its commitment to the environment when in January of 2011, it enacted the Emergency Decree No. 001-2011 to eliminate environmental impact certificates to approve 33 projects for investment. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12345.aspx Sun, 30 Jan 2011 09:55:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12345.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12344.aspx Mon, 27 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12344.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12343.aspx Mon, 27 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12343.aspx Transparency and accountability gaps are highlighted in World Bank Board Query to Latin American Vice President, Pamela Cox. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12340.aspx Tue, 25 Jan 2011 16:57:08 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12340.aspx Civil Society Organizations question the World Bank disbursement of the DPL SEM I to Brasil without clear evidence regarding the implementation of BNDES Safeguards and Social and Environmental policy in emblematic cases http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12338.aspx Tue, 25 Jan 2011 13:08:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12338.aspx New report by Amigos da Terra - Amazonia and International Rivers reveals looming financial, legal and reputational disaster of Belo Monte, world's third largest dam project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12335.aspx Thu, 20 Jan 2011 08:27:27 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12335.aspx In interview with Valor, Minister Texiera key environmental focus for the new government is urban development http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12332.aspx Wed, 12 Jan 2011 11:52:11 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12332.aspx Indigenous peoples from the regions of Puno, Madre de Dios and Cuzco are awaiting the government to keep its word to come to the area where the construction of hydroelectric project Inambari and discuss and accept the invalidity of it, otherwise communities begin an indefinite strike to defend their ancestral lands and respect for its decisions. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12331.aspx Sun, 09 Jan 2011 10:41:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12331.aspx Through peaceful mobilization, legal actions, unity, and deep roots in their ancestral territory, the indigenous peoples of Putumayo and some Afro-Colombian communities stopped the implementation of the San Francisco -Mocoa highway project funded by the IDB, a project considered by the government as a pillar of regional development and IIRSA Amazonas Multimodal Transport Corridor Tumaco-Belem do Para, the promotes infrastructure megaprojects to facilitate the extraction of natural resources, oil, minerals, biodiversity and ancestral knowledge of the Amazon. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12329.aspx Thu, 06 Jan 2011 10:43:46 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12329.aspx A developing country already has nearly achieved what the world’s wealthiest countries have only promised to do. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12327.aspx Thu, 30 Dec 2010 13:29:59 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12327.aspx The construction of five hydroelectric dams in Peru as part of an energy deal with Brazil will do considerable damage to the environment, such as the destruction of nearly 1.5 million hectares of jungle over the next 20 years, according to an independent study. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12326.aspx Tue, 28 Dec 2010 07:33:40 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12326.aspx $US 618 million bridge loan from BNDES prior to full environmental license ignores grave risks. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12325.aspx Fri, 24 Dec 2010 08:04:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12325.aspx Citing underestimation of risks, new analysis by Amigos da Terra Amazonia and International Rivers questions the integrity of BNDES financing decision. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12324.aspx Fri, 24 Dec 2010 07:58:27 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12324.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12320.aspx Tue, 21 Dec 2010 07:26:18 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12320.aspx In a bill that was proposed in 2008, the Peruvian Congress Commission on Andean, Indigenous and Afro-Peruvian Peoples, Environment and Ecology, approved a bill to protect the areas and biodiversity affected by the Southern Interoceanic highway. The bill awaits the President's signature. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12319.aspx Mon, 20 Dec 2010 09:18:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12319.aspx The Bolivian capital of La Paz and its surroundings, home to nearly 2 million people, is poised to experience a catastrophic drought that will turn productive grasslands into arid deserts as soon as 2040 due to rising temperatures, a new study concludes. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12318.aspx Mon, 20 Dec 2010 08:53:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12318.aspx With the preview to close 2010 with the release of $ 146 billion, BNDES keeps growing, turbocharged with contributions and loans from the Treasury, but slows down to face their limits. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12317.aspx Sun, 19 Dec 2010 15:27:11 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12317.aspx The Executive Committee of the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) is profoundly concerned about what appears to be threats to the life of Mr. Tony James, President of the APA by unknown persons. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12316.aspx Fri, 17 Dec 2010 15:52:59 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12316.aspx BIC is happy to announce the publication of our new Executive Director advocacy toolkit. Built around our ED advocacy workshop held during the 2010 Annual Meetings, this guide provides strategies for civil society actors to engage and build relationships with the World Bank's Executive Directors. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12314.aspx Fri, 17 Dec 2010 14:53:08 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12314.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12310.aspx Tue, 14 Dec 2010 21:34:38 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12310.aspx The most controversial project of the Growth Aceleration Program (PAC) in Brasil for the occupation of territory and natural resources of the Amazon.- the paving of BR-319 highway, which connects Porto Velho (RO) to Manaus (AM) - won approval by a decree signed yesterday by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12293.aspx Thu, 02 Dec 2010 13:14:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12293.aspx Read about the upcoming regional workshops in Puerto Maldonado, Puno and Cusco, organized by the Peruvian Environment Ministry. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12284.aspx Tue, 23 Nov 2010 16:27:47 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12284.aspx California has reached agreement with states in Mexico and Brazil for pilot projects to protect their rainforests in return for carbon credits under the provincial-level, international climate initiative of outgoing Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12271.aspx Tue, 16 Nov 2010 10:04:24 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12271.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12264.aspx Mon, 15 Nov 2010 11:38:10 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12264.aspx The French transnational has a US$400 million contract to link Rondonia to Sao Paulo, and now shifts attention to the Xingu region of Para. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12258.aspx Sun, 14 Nov 2010 16:23:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12258.aspx The energy giant plans a global expansion in 2011 that by 2020 will generate 10% of total revenues from outside the region and allow Brazil to import energy for increasing demand. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12257.aspx Sun, 14 Nov 2010 15:27:22 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12257.aspx The government of Guyana plans to spend most of the Norwegian forest climate aid it will receive during 2010-11 on the Amaila Falls hydropower project, a dam to be built deep in the Amazon rainforest. Norwegian officials insist this is not a done deal, but President Bharrat Jagdeo has staked much personal prestige in the decades-old project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12256.aspx Sun, 14 Nov 2010 10:07:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12256.aspx With BNDES support, a Vale and Petrobras initiative reforests 28,000 hectares, and projects total protection of 350,000 ha and reforestation of another 150,000 ha. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12255.aspx Sun, 14 Nov 2010 09:49:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12255.aspx Under pressure to expedite Brazilian dams in the Peruvian Amazon region, the government is proposing legistlation to ease environmental requirements for hydroelectric dams that allows concessions without presenting an EIA. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12254.aspx Sun, 14 Nov 2010 09:02:34 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12254.aspx Suez, the lead corporate member of the Jirau Energia Sustentavel consortium building the dam, launched a web based observatory run by youth in the community of Nova Mutum Paraná, Rondonia to provide information about the issues related to the 3,000 MW hydroelectric project and its influence on communities. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12253.aspx Sat, 13 Nov 2010 22:09:51 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12253.aspx Through successive infusions from BNDES, various Brazilian beef processing firms such as Frigorifico Bertin (JBS) is being transformed into global giants. BNDES has funded JBS growth in investments in Argentina, U.S., Australia and Italy on the order of R$ 10 billiones. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12252.aspx Sat, 13 Nov 2010 21:58:04 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12252.aspx The energy auction proposed by Energia Sustentável do Brasil (ESBR) - winner of the Jirau hydroelectric project construction bid on the Madeira River, to sell part of hydroelectric energy from Jirau through the free market ended without a new contract. Jirau proposed energy prices between R$130 and R$140 per MWh http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12251.aspx Sat, 13 Nov 2010 21:27:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12251.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12250.aspx Sat, 13 Nov 2010 20:17:19 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12250.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12249.aspx Sat, 13 Nov 2010 18:35:23 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12249.aspx The Transoceanic Highway, evoking engineering marvels such as the Transcontinental Railroad and the Panama Canal, has been talked about for decades, assuming a mythic stature that has led many to question whether the east-west thoroughfare linking Brazil's Atlantic ports with the Pacific docks of Peru would ever come to pass. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12248.aspx Sat, 13 Nov 2010 18:16:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12248.aspx The Federal Prosecutor in Pará sent to IBAMA recommendation not to issue a new environmental permit are not met while the 40 conditions of the preliminary license. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12245.aspx Sat, 13 Nov 2010 17:05:48 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12245.aspx Speaking at the IMF/World Bank Annual Meetings held in Washington DC last month, Norway's State Secretary for Environment and International Development, Ingrid Fiskaa said that last year, Norway and Guyana set out on a joint partnership to work together to provide the world with a working example of how partnership between developed and developing countries can save the world's tropical forests. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12242.aspx Fri, 12 Nov 2010 09:27:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12242.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12231.aspx Mon, 08 Nov 2010 09:29:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12231.aspx Despite Morales’ international efforts to push an environmentalist agenda, his own ecological track record at home raises difficult questions. As Bolivia looks for feasible ways to develop its economy, most of the industrial activity in the country takes a heavy toll on the environment. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12229.aspx Fri, 05 Nov 2010 14:54:38 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12229.aspx The high level and high volume of allegations of corruption and financial mal-practice in Guyana should be a warning to the Norwegian donor and to the potential PEs about management of donor money. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12224.aspx Thu, 04 Nov 2010 11:15:12 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12224.aspx Authors Claudia Enrique and Vanessa Cueto of Derecho, Ambiente y Recursos Naturales (DAR) in Peru conducted an independent assessment of a program to mitigate the social and environmental effects of the highway currently being built in Peru. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12212.aspx Wed, 27 Oct 2010 16:12:49 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12212.aspx The dossier contains a summary of proposals submitted by a group of civil society organizations to the Inter-American Development Bank. These recommendations focus on two core areas of the IDB’s comparative advantage as a development bank in Latin America, Sustainability and Management for Development Results. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12221.aspx Mon, 01 Nov 2010 15:33:09 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12221.aspx BNDES, Brazil's national development bank, contributed to Amazon deforestation by lending billions of dollars to commercial meatpackers, driving expansion of cattle ranching across the world's largest rainforest, ruled an audit by the Federal Audit Court. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12218.aspx Sat, 30 Oct 2010 07:59:24 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12218.aspx As head of BNDES, Luciano Coutinho revitalized the bank that now delivers credit to the largest industrial, technology and meat packing economic groups.` http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12217.aspx Thu, 28 Oct 2010 12:27:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12217.aspx A recent article about the 3,000 MW San Antonio hydroelectric dam being built in a highly sensitive international Amazon watershed purported that Brazil had surmounted the environmental and social criticism of the revived Amazon dam building plans for 24 such sites in the coming years. Critics respond the WSJ writer, John Lyons, ignored much of the evidence and argumentation provided to him, resulting in a one-sided presentation of San Antonio that results in a greenwashing of the highly problematic project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12213.aspx Wed, 27 Oct 2010 16:44:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12213.aspx In a public statement directed at the Peruvian State, the World Bank, UNDP and UNFCCC, the Inter-ethnic Association for the Development of the Peruvian Forest (AIDESEP) denounces plans of the government and its political and corporate allies to grant mining, logging and tourism concessions, as well as approve REDD and environmental services initiatives after blocking the Indigenous Consultation Law. They insist: without territory, rights and consultation for indigenous peoples, such concessions must not move forward. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12220.aspx Mon, 01 Nov 2010 11:09:18 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12220.aspx Corporacion Andina de Fomento (CAF) informed about the progress of the Inter-Oceanic Highway construction as well as the achievements of the productive projects implemented to improve the quality of life of people in the area of influence of the corridor. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12204.aspx Fri, 22 Oct 2010 10:03:18 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12204.aspx Construction workers are fighting the clock to finish the last stretch of the Southern Inter-Oceanic Highway, in southeastern Peru, apparently unaware that about 100 kilometres of this road connecting to Brazil will be covered by water once the Inambari hydroelectric dam is built nearby. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12195.aspx Wed, 20 Oct 2010 13:18:35 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12195.aspx CONTACT: Matt Finer, Save America’s Forests: 202-544-9219, matt@saveamericasforests.org Matthew Terry, Napo River Foundation: (593-9) 444-8277, info@rionapo.org http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12196.aspx Wed, 20 Oct 2010 14:28:48 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12196.aspx The Government of Guyana is planning to build a 140 MW hydroelectric dam on the Potaro River with funding from China and Norway and technical support from the IDB and WB. The first dam is part of a 1060 MW complex that will have signficant social and environmental impacts in the western Amazon region of the country. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12187.aspx Tue, 19 Oct 2010 10:26:54 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12187.aspx Compared with other countries in Latin America - the most unequal region in the world, Colombia has extremely high extremes in income levels while the concentration of land ownership remains in relatively few hands. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12185.aspx Tue, 19 Oct 2010 07:43:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12185.aspx Brazil will auction large swaths of the Amazon forest to be managed by private timber companies and cooperatives to help reduce demand for illegal logging, a top official told Reuters on Monday. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12174.aspx Tue, 12 Oct 2010 15:03:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12174.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12153.aspx Fri, 24 Sep 2010 18:30:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12153.aspx In general the REDD discussions are based on the assumption of command and control policies that combines investment and capacity to implement economic incentives to avoid deforestation. In this sense there is relatively little emphasis in the discussion of solutions to structural problems that lead people from different sectors to adopt strategies that lead to deforestation and forest degradation, in other terms governance scenarios. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12152.aspx Fri, 24 Sep 2010 18:25:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12152.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12151.aspx Fri, 24 Sep 2010 11:28:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12151.aspx The REDD Alert is a resource for civil society engaged in the global REDD+ process, with a special focus on the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility. The alert brings you the latest information available on the FCPF process, other REDD initiatives such as UN-REDD and the Forest Investment Program, and other related news from around the world. REDD Alert is a project of Bank Information Center with contributions from other civil society groups working to make REDD a more participatory, transparent and equitable process. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12150.aspx Thu, 23 Sep 2010 14:35:11 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12150.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12146.aspx Sun, 19 Sep 2010 09:22:21 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12146.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12145.aspx Sat, 18 Sep 2010 07:35:01 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12145.aspx A CAF delegation – formed by Infrastructure Vice President Antonio Juan Sosa, and CAF representative director in Peru Eleonora Silva Pardo – visited Madre de Dios and Cusco departments to monitor the progress of construction of the Southern Interoceanic Highway. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12144.aspx Wed, 15 Sep 2010 18:29:35 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12144.aspx Perupetro, Peru's oil and gas licensing agency, said Monday that recoverable natural gas reserves from the blocks 88 and 56 in the giant Camisea field stand at 13.8 Tcf -- higher than two previous estimates released by the government in the last 15 months. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12137.aspx Thu, 09 Sep 2010 11:31:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12137.aspx Since the beginning of the 90's there have been warnings on the potential impacts of the hydroelectric project on the rivers Paraguay and Parana and its surrounding areas. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12135.aspx Thu, 09 Sep 2010 11:15:17 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12135.aspx While authorities express their support for the construction of the hidroeletric plant, the neighboring province raises questions. The province's council asks for a plebiscite, but governor Closs announced that this ask is only going to be considered once the results from the feasibility studies are obtained. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12134.aspx Thu, 09 Sep 2010 11:05:36 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12134.aspx Later this year, Peru will begin to send their exports to Brazil via the Southern Inter-Oceanic Highway, said the head of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur), Martin Perez. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12132.aspx Thu, 09 Sep 2010 10:42:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12132.aspx The new highway that will connect Brazil to Peru by the end of this year threatens one of the last great treasures of humanity. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12130.aspx Wed, 08 Sep 2010 13:58:31 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12130.aspx A new, highly detailed map of part of Peru's Amazon shows how much climate-warming carbon is stored there, and where cutting down vegetation has sent this greenhouse gas into the atmosphere, scientists said on Monday. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12128.aspx Tue, 07 Sep 2010 15:38:55 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12128.aspx The construction of an imense hydroelectric dam in Cachuela Esperanza, which the government of Evo Morales plans to install in the Northeast is not feasable in technical, economic and environmental terms, as warned by Jorge Molina, expert of the Hydraulic Institute of the Universidad Mayor de San Andrés de La Paz. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12127.aspx Tue, 07 Sep 2010 10:37:17 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12127.aspx Seen from up high, the route to Puente Inambari looks like a green serpent -- long, robust and sinuous. The Amazon jungle that dominates this landscape will be underwater if one of the largest hydroelectric dams in Peru (and all Latin America) is built. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12126.aspx Tue, 07 Sep 2010 06:50:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12126.aspx President Evo Morales announced on tuesday that the study and final design for the construction of a massive hydroelectric plant in Canchuela Esperanza, northeast Bolivia, have been concluded. The plant will generate 990 megawatts, almost the cureent energy demand of the whole country. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12125.aspx Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:29:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12125.aspx Without a logical sequence of strategic investments that take into account issues before and during road construction, road expansion can become a devastating process for forest areas in the social, environmental, economic and institutional context. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12124.aspx Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:57:07 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12124.aspx Brazil has begun a counterattack on the European Union's measures for certifying crop-based fuels, which could lead to import barriers for this energy source coming from the South American giant. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12121.aspx Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:14:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12121.aspx Seen from up high, the route to Puente Inambari looks like a green serpent -- long, robust and sinuous. The Amazon jungle that dominates this landscape will be underwater if one of the largest hydroelectric dams in Peru (and all Latin America) is built. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12119.aspx Wed, 01 Sep 2010 13:42:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12119.aspx Kuntur Transportadora de Gas SAC said two pipelines it plans to construct in southern Peru will cost about $3 billion—twice the amount of earlier estimates. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12118.aspx Wed, 01 Sep 2010 13:32:48 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12118.aspx Tour graphically shows impacts of Belo Monte and 60 other dams planned for Amazon. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12116.aspx Tue, 31 Aug 2010 10:43:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12116.aspx Brazil's government has given the formal go-ahead for the building on a tributary of the Amazon of the world's third biggest hydroelectric dam. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12113.aspx Fri, 27 Aug 2010 15:07:40 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12113.aspx Border problems and complicated laws, hinder energy progress of one of the richest regions in terms of oil and gas. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12111.aspx Thu, 26 Aug 2010 16:23:38 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12111.aspx China surpassed Japan and became the world's second economy, only behind the United States. This happened at the same time chanceler Ricardo Patino annouced that the relationship between Ecuador and China is at its best moment. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12110.aspx Thu, 26 Aug 2010 16:09:38 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12110.aspx Transnational companies prefer to invest in development of already existing fields because the markets of Brazil and Argentina are guaranteed. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12108.aspx Thu, 26 Aug 2010 15:48:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12108.aspx Brazil's fast-growing economy needs new feeding grounds, and one place it is finding handy is its market-friendly Andean neighbor Peru. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12107.aspx Thu, 26 Aug 2010 15:23:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12107.aspx The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Water Authority did not participate in the negotiations of the energy treaty between Brazil and Peru, even though the law requires them to. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12106.aspx Thu, 26 Aug 2010 13:55:27 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12106.aspx The national water authority (ANA) did not participate in the negotiations of the energy agreement between Peru and Brazil, even though article 44 of the Water and Resources Law Regulation establishes that this organism should be present in such agreements. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12105.aspx Thu, 26 Aug 2010 13:35:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12105.aspx Every year about 30 thousand tourists from Europe, Asia, North America and Israel visit Rurrenabaque, known as the Pearl of the ecotourism in the Amazon, which runs the risk of becoming a dusty and polluted town of transit. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12104.aspx Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:49:27 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12104.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12101.aspx Wed, 25 Aug 2010 17:30:43 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12101.aspx Synergy Holdings Inc., the company constructing the Amaila Falls hydropower project access road, benefited from a government-approved waiver on taxes on its recent shipment of equipment, a well-placed source said. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12100.aspx Wed, 25 Aug 2010 17:27:09 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12100.aspx Fires in the state of Rondonia continue to harm well-being of the people of Porto Velho. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12099.aspx Wed, 25 Aug 2010 10:04:45 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12099.aspx Without the president's support, the iniciative of not extracting the 846 millions of barrels of oil from Ishpingo, Tambococha and Tiputini fails. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12098.aspx Wed, 25 Aug 2010 09:56:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12098.aspx The president criticizes comments that the bank lends subsidized money and says it exists to fund the brazilian industrial sector http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12097.aspx Wed, 25 Aug 2010 09:44:26 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12097.aspx The IFC is reviewing its socio-environmental criteria for lending to the private sector in developing countries. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12096.aspx Wed, 25 Aug 2010 09:34:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12096.aspx President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has transformed Brazil’s state development bank into a key engine of economic growth since his re-election in 2006. Yet Lula’s policy of pushing the bank’s involvement into so many areas of Brazilian life now threatens the momentum of the world’s eighth-largest economy. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12095.aspx Wed, 25 Aug 2010 09:28:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12095.aspx The National Water Authority (ANA) was not involved in the negotiations of the Energy Agreement between Peru and Brazil, although the Regulations of the Water Resources Act established the presence of this organism in these kinds of agreements. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12092.aspx Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:48:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12092.aspx BR-230, the third largest highway in Brazil, with 4.9 thousand kilometers of length, has a good stretch still in phase of preparation for construction. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12091.aspx Mon, 16 Aug 2010 09:20:31 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12091.aspx Ecuador's £3.6bn scheme to save its rainforest from exploitation could point the way to sparing other threatened landscapes. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12088.aspx Tue, 10 Aug 2010 11:44:15 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12088.aspx An acrimonious relationship between Ecuador’s President Rafael Correa and Native leaders took a turn for the worse when the government charged three leaders of the country’s largest indigenous organizations with terrorism and sabotage following a protest outside a summit of the Bolivarian Alliance for the Americas on June 25. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12087.aspx Tue, 10 Aug 2010 11:41:04 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12087.aspx Can forest-rich countries learn from the mistakes of extractive projects and avoid unleashing their own resource curse? http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12082.aspx Mon, 09 Aug 2010 09:56:49 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12082.aspx Bolivian President Evo Morales' favorite cause-célèbre has always been coca — the small leaf that is a key element of Andean culture and is central to cocaine production. But recently, he's seemed more keen to stump on behalf of Mother Earth http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12081.aspx Mon, 09 Aug 2010 09:27:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12081.aspx It is one thing for the World Bank to promote a discourse of transparency and information disclosure and quite another to commit to being a public finance institution that respects all of the rights of people affected by the projects which they finance. Unfortunately, the Bank has not been willing to make this commitment. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12077.aspx Thu, 05 Aug 2010 10:53:02 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12077.aspx Exchange of views highlights differences in defining new rules for participation, development effectiveness and additionality. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12076.aspx Thu, 05 Aug 2010 10:29:11 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12076.aspx Little over a month after the Access to Information Policy came into effect, the first few documents to be released through the "simultaneous disclosure" clause are trickling out of the Bank. The implications of such releases, however, have yet to be seen. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12075.aspx Wed, 04 Aug 2010 17:27:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12075.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12070.aspx Thu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12070.aspx In a conference in Cochabamba, representatives of Peru, Brazil and Bolivia discussed the future of the electricity market, in particular the possible impacts of the construction of new hydroelectric dams, a task which Brazil has taken an upper hand in. The debate begins. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12071.aspx Mon, 02 Aug 2010 15:16:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12071.aspx Arguing a pursuit of energy integration between Bolivia and Brazil, Brazil tries to prioritize hydroelectric projects in Bolivia's agenda, despite dissent from environmentalists. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12072.aspx Mon, 02 Aug 2010 15:28:53 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12072.aspx Fifty-three percent of Peru is covered with native rainforest, but the agencies in charge of protecting and monitoring this vast area are toothless and have neither the staff nor the resources to cope with the job, according to a report from the Defensoría del Pueblo (Ombudsperson's Office). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12069.aspx Mon, 02 Aug 2010 15:01:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12069.aspx Human rights defense entities estimate that each year, around 1,200 girls from 12 to 17 years of age come to the roadside camps set for workers of the extractive industries to work as prostitutes. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12068.aspx Mon, 02 Aug 2010 14:41:49 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12068.aspx In Guacamayo, in the province of Madre de Dios, in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, the million-dollar business of illegal glod extraction threatens to destroy the region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12067.aspx Mon, 02 Aug 2010 14:35:22 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12067.aspx Civil Society Organizations sent a letter to President Moreno to remind him that the mandate of his next Presidential term at the Bank will rest on three fundamental challenges: an Evidence-based Results Management, Institutional Governance, and a Social and Environmental Sustainability vision for the region. This in despite of controversial management style and consequent Bank performance over the last five years under his Presidency. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12059.aspx Tue, 27 Jul 2010 16:57:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12059.aspx Bolivian Deputy Minister of Environment Juan Pablo Ramos and Director Environment Luis Beltrán submitted irrevocable resignation from their posts on Friday of last week, after government officials tried to force them to sign an environmental permit for the construction of a highway in the Chapare region of Cochabamba. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12058.aspx Tue, 27 Jul 2010 14:29:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12058.aspx Peru's President Alan Garcia has inaugurated the first stretch of the Interoceanica Sur highway, which required an investment of more than US$68mn, the presidential website reported. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12057.aspx Tue, 27 Jul 2010 14:23:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12057.aspx Oraldo Reategui, a member of the Audit Committee of IIRSA Projects, reported the meeting began with forty attendees, most of them officials of public institutions, being absent representatives of civil society due to poor call for participation by the authorities. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12055.aspx Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:56:18 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12055.aspx Prof. Jeffery Webster interviews Alberto Acosta, ex-Minister of Energy and Mines, and ex-President of the Constituent Assembly. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12054.aspx Fri, 23 Jul 2010 11:10:52 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12054.aspx More than 180 pieces of heavy machinery were discovered in the Inambari river basin in Carabaya province during a recent raid, according to regional director of Energy and Mining, Víctor Paredes Argandoña. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12050.aspx Wed, 21 Jul 2010 13:59:49 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12050.aspx Municipal mayors in the Pando departament, located in the Bolivian Amazon, decidided to expel several NGOs, foundations and companies operating in their territories. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12049.aspx Wed, 21 Jul 2010 13:45:47 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12049.aspx At a series of ongoing consultations, many civil society actors have asked the U.S. to sign the U.N. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. BIC's Mark Rentschler and WRI's Kirk Herbertson discuss the importance of the declaration to work on the IFIs. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12043.aspx Tue, 20 Jul 2010 16:22:36 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12043.aspx China will support construction of the Amaila Falls hydro-electricity project which President Bharrat Jagdeo yesterday called the “flagship” of Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12035.aspx Fri, 16 Jul 2010 14:30:48 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12035.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12034.aspx Fri, 16 Jul 2010 10:31:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12034.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12027.aspx Thu, 15 Jul 2010 15:09:48 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12027.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12026.aspx Tue, 22 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12026.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12025.aspx Thu, 15 Jul 2010 14:34:34 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12025.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12023.aspx Thu, 15 Jul 2010 14:10:40 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12023.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12022.aspx Thu, 15 Jul 2010 14:02:55 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12022.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12019.aspx Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:26:09 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12019.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12013.aspx Thu, 15 Jul 2010 10:59:08 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12013.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12012.aspx Thu, 15 Jul 2010 10:47:19 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12012.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12010.aspx Thu, 15 Jul 2010 10:13:06 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12010.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12005.aspx Wed, 14 Jul 2010 15:24:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12005.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12001.aspx Wed, 14 Jul 2010 14:05:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.12001.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11997.aspx Wed, 14 Jul 2010 12:15:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11997.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11995.aspx Wed, 14 Jul 2010 11:52:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11995.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11992.aspx Wed, 14 Jul 2010 10:46:22 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11992.aspx No. 2 official at IDB resigns after approval of a $70 billion capital increase and re-election of President Luis Alberto Moreno http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11990.aspx Tue, 13 Jul 2010 12:29:17 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11990.aspx This month's edition of the BICECA Monthly Bulletin features a summary of the event entitled "Oil and Mining Booms and Sustainable Development: Lessons from Peru for Development Planning & Revenue Management at the National and subnational level" (Washington, DC, June 16, 2010). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11979.aspx Fri, 09 Jul 2010 10:44:08 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11979.aspx The World Bank replies to the recommendations of 25 civil society groups on the new energy strategy consultations made in Peru, Brazil and Mexico. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11985.aspx Mon, 12 Jul 2010 13:59:11 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11985.aspx MEXICO CITY, Jul 5, 2010 (IPS) - Non-governmental organizations from across the Americas are demanding that the World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank institute policies that favor sustainable energy and help mitigate climate change. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11964.aspx Tue, 06 Jul 2010 10:43:02 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11964.aspx Civil society groups compile recommendations to the World Bank for the new energy strategy and feedback on public consultations in Peru, Brazil and Mexico http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11956.aspx Fri, 02 Jul 2010 13:57:51 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11956.aspx This month's edition of the BICECA bulletin includes an article on the International Finance Corporation's Policy and Standards Review in Latin America http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11954.aspx Fri, 02 Jul 2010 12:45:09 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11954.aspx This month's edition of the BICECA Monthly Bulletin features updates on the World Bank's Energy Strategy Review as well as the IFC's Policy and Standards Review in Latin America. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11946.aspx Thu, 01 Jul 2010 11:28:04 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11946.aspx Guyana's president implores the FCPF Participants Committee and the World Bank not to "obsess" over gaps in capacity, territorial right and indigenous consultation before REDD funds are disbursed. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11944.aspx Thu, 01 Jul 2010 10:52:49 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11944.aspx President of the Amerindian Peoples Association Tony James calls on the World Bank to perform its proper due diligence to ensure that issues of territorial rights and meaningful consultation of indigenous peoples are addressed in Guyana. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11943.aspx Thu, 01 Jul 2010 10:41:27 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11943.aspx This past Wednesday, June 16, 2010, the Brazilian president Luis Inacio Lula da Silva and the Peruvian president, Alan Garcia, met in Manaus, in the heart of the Brazilian Amazon, to finalize discussions on an energy agreement. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11934.aspx Fri, 25 Jun 2010 16:22:08 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11934.aspx The opposition and experts in Ecuador are questioning a 1.68 billion dollar loan from China to finance 85 percent of the construction and equipment of the Coca Codo Sinclair hydroelectric dam. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11925.aspx Wed, 23 Jun 2010 09:04:17 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11925.aspx The presidents of Brazil and Peru signed on Wednesday an energy integration agreement which includes the construction of hydroelectric plants and interconnections through the Amazon jungle. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11924.aspx Tue, 22 Jun 2010 16:10:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11924.aspx Though the nominations process for president of the Inter-American Development Bank closes on June 26th, no one has yet opposed incumbent Luis Alberto Moreno. In a letter, members of the IDB staff allege that through political horse trading, Moreno has secured his reelection. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11922.aspx Mon, 21 Jun 2010 12:01:27 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11922.aspx An energy deal that Peru and Brazil signed this week in the Amazon city of Manaus in Brazil is opposed by environmentalists and local indigenous communities in Peru where the planned hydroelectric dams will be built. What is at stake? http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11919.aspx Fri, 18 Jun 2010 15:24:54 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11919.aspx Marc Dourojeanni, specialist in environment and natural resources, voices his opinion on the energy deal between Peru and Brazil and the Inambari hydroelectric dam. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11914.aspx Tue, 15 Jun 2010 09:56:23 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11914.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11911.aspx Thu, 03 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11911.aspx Wednesday, June 16th, Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies will host a panel titled "Oil and mining booms and sustainable development: Lessons from Peru for development planning and revenue management at the national and subnational level." http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11888.aspx Fri, 21 May 2010 11:38:38 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11888.aspx In light of the International Finance Corporation's review of its Sustainability Policy, Performance Standards and Disclosure Policy, the Bank Information Center has outlined its major concerns and policy recommendations that it will be presenting to the IFC throughout the review process. BIC highlights the issues of extractive industries revenue and contract transparency; reporting on development outcomes; and the principle of free, prior and informed consent and broad community support for risky projects. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11894.aspx Wed, 02 Jun 2010 15:06:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11894.aspx The Peruvian Congress approved on Wednesday a provisional ruling on a law for the Right to Prior Consultation of Indigenous and Native Peoples. Still, indigenous groups emphasize the need to reconcile the development vision of the State and that of indigenous peoples, which is not always the same. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11887.aspx Fri, 21 May 2010 10:44:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11887.aspx Working quickly to ensure the approval of GCI funds, the Inter-American Development Bank has approved a new disclosure policy. The new policy is a leap forward in many respects, but is still weak on disclosure relevant to private sector lending and environmental and social impacts. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11879.aspx Mon, 17 May 2010 09:25:38 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11879.aspx The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) May 12 approved a new "Access to Information Policy" likely to increase the level of transparency at the institution, according to a new article posted today on FreedomInfo.org's IFTI Watch column. The IDB set an international speed record for writing and approving the new disclosure policy, rushing it through as part of an effort to bolster its case for a capital replenishment. The haste came at the expense of a planned public comment period. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11878.aspx Thu, 13 May 2010 13:51:22 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11878.aspx An investigation by Derecho, Ambiente y Recursos Naturales (DAR) reveals that from 2002 to 2009 Peruvian household utility customers financed the construction of TGP ducts. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11877.aspx Wed, 12 May 2010 16:01:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11877.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11865.aspx Mon, 19 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11865.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11864.aspx Thu, 22 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11864.aspx This edition of the BICECA Bulletin examines the World Bank Energy and Climate Change Strategies in the context of the upcoming Spring Meetings, which will take place April 24-25 in Washington, DC. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11855.aspx Wed, 21 Apr 2010 10:43:52 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11855.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11852.aspx Sat, 10 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11852.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11851.aspx Mon, 05 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11851.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11850.aspx Thu, 01 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11850.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11849.aspx Thu, 08 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11849.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11847.aspx Tue, 13 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11847.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11846.aspx Wed, 07 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11846.aspx The Peoples' World Conference on Climate Change and Rights of Mother Earth was announced by President Evo Morales of Bolivia in the aftermath of the widely denounced outcomes of the Copenhagen UNFCCC conference in December 2009. The aim of the conference is to advance an agenda led by civil society organizations and in dialogue with proactive governments dedicated to preventing climate change. The conference aims to analyze the structural causes of climate change, and develop specific proposals and actions for addressing it. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11845.aspx Wed, 14 Apr 2010 15:40:04 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11845.aspx Representatives from donor countries, REDD countries plus observers and World Bank staff met in La Lope, Gabon from March 22 to 25 to discuss readiness proposals from several countries. Ghana, Democratic Republic of Congo and Mexico were each allocated readiness grants up to 3.6 million USD. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11841.aspx Mon, 12 Apr 2010 12:33:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11841.aspx The Cancun Declaration, signed by the Governors of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) at its 51st Annual Meeting, contains 10 points and a global framework for evaluation of the agreed institutional reforms included in the ninth General Capital Increase of the Bank. These points partially address the concerns expressed by civil society in the region. Nevertheless, as these organizations point out, there are still points to be reinforced and challenges to be taken on by Bank management. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11835.aspx Wed, 07 Apr 2010 16:20:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11835.aspx The latest edition of the BICECA bulletin features analysis from civil society groups from around the region on the IDB Capital Increase and the pending institutional reforms linked to it. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11827.aspx Thu, 01 Apr 2010 15:13:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11827.aspx The proposed capital increases for the World Bank and IFC would expand their size without expanding the scope of their reform. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11785.aspx Tue, 30 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11785.aspx Cofan leader Emergildo Criollo traveled to California recently from his indigenous village in Ecuador to the home of Chevron’s new CEO John Watson, demanding that the oil giant take responsibility for the contamination of the Amazon and hundreds of related deaths. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11820.aspx Mon, 22 Mar 2010 11:31:23 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11820.aspx The U.S. has laid down 13 conditions for an IDB capital increase, of which six have already been implemented and five are "acceptable”. The two other conditions, fiscal oversight of borrowing countries and strengthened environmental standards, however, are "a serious problem", according to Brazilian Planning Minister. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11818.aspx Mon, 22 Mar 2010 10:12:20 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11818.aspx Projects financed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) that affect communities in Mexico, Brazil, Colombia and Honduras were brought into question this weekend in Cancun, while the institution contemplates an increase in its ordinary capital. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11817.aspx Mon, 22 Mar 2010 09:55:28 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11817.aspx The IDB is seeking a capital increase of nearly 200%, while civil society's demands for greater transparency and institutional reform are met with silence from the Bank. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11816.aspx Mon, 22 Mar 2010 09:49:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11816.aspx The 48 member countries of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) are currently considering an ordinary capital increase of 80 billion dollars, nearly double the amounts of its current level, according to documents under debate at the annual meeting in Cancun. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11815.aspx Mon, 22 Mar 2010 09:38:45 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11815.aspx Severe doubts have been raised by some of the IDB's own members regarding Luis Alberto Moreno's management. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11814.aspx Fri, 19 Mar 2010 12:35:46 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11814.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11813.aspx Wed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11813.aspx Press Release from civil society groups present at the IDB Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors in Cancun, Mexico http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11822.aspx Wed, 24 Mar 2010 11:53:19 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11822.aspx Brazilian Minister of Finance, Guido Mantega: "we will propose at the meeting that the IDB elect a new administration that is more efficient and beneficial to the region". "Our joint evaluation is that his performance has been unsatisfactory". http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11811.aspx Thu, 18 Mar 2010 12:10:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11811.aspx While Moreno prays for "white smoke" at the IDB Annual Meetings in Cancun, both critics within the Bank and civil society offer sharp criticism of the leader's performance. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11810.aspx Thu, 18 Mar 2010 11:27:53 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11810.aspx This article is based on an investigation of the Puerto Suárez - Santa Cruz Bi-Oceanic Corridor conducted by a team of professionals from the Center of Applied Studies of Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (CEADESC) in Bolivia. The investigation is centered on transparency policies applied in the management and development of mega-infrastructure projects within the IIRSA integration initiative in South America, and aims to ignite a debate between civil society and the various international actors that finance IIRSA. The CEADESC study shows that this debate can only take place within a wider discussion about the interrelation between development policy, democracy and human rights given that each one of these dimensions is a condition for advancement of the others. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11809.aspx Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:21:33 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11809.aspx A coalition comprised of more than 100 civil society groups from 20 countries are attending the IDB's Annual Meetings in Cancun, Mexico this week seeking answers from Bank Governors and Executives on crucial reforms that must be discussed before a Board vote on a multi-billion dollar capital increase. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11812.aspx Thu, 18 Mar 2010 14:58:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11812.aspx The Forest Carbon Partnership Facility will hold the fifth meeting of its Participants Committee in order to discuss several reforms and readiness proposals. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11806.aspx Tue, 16 Mar 2010 15:17:59 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11806.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11800.aspx Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11800.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11794.aspx Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11794.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11793.aspx Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11793.aspx Hundreds of Peruvian communities were displaced as they fled the 1980-2000 civil war. Today the government is pushing for urgent passage of a law that would facilitate the relocation of entire villages or neighbourhoods in mineral or energy-rich areas. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11788.aspx Wed, 03 Mar 2010 14:55:33 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11788.aspx “In our capacity as regional authorities, we have conducted a technical analysis of this project and we will not endorse it, because this project will only benefit Brazil” stated Víctor Paredes Argandeña, regional director of Energy and Mining in Puno. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11786.aspx Mon, 01 Mar 2010 12:16:30 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11786.aspx IDB Board of Governors Urged to Address Civil Society Concerns During Upcoming March 2nd Meeting in Washington, DC http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11784.aspx Sat, 27 Feb 2010 10:31:19 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11784.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11783.aspx Fri, 26 Feb 2010 09:19:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11783.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11780.aspx Mon, 22 Feb 2010 18:07:53 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11780.aspx Eight months have passed since the bloody confrontation between police and local protestors in Bagua over decrees passed by the Peruvian government that opened up indigenous land in the rainforest to oil, mining and logging companies, resulting in the death of 12 policemen and at least 10 indigenous demonstrators. Nevertheless, two falsely accused demonstrators remain behind bars, while no policemen have been charged for the deaths of the protestors. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11778.aspx Mon, 22 Feb 2010 13:25:33 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11778.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11777.aspx Sat, 20 Feb 2010 12:09:11 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11777.aspx More than 100 civil society organizations from 18 countries stepped up pressure on the IDB by submitting a letter to the Board of Governors demanding Transparency and Evidence of Structural Reforms before the approval on the Capital Increase in Cancun, Mexico. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11776.aspx Wed, 17 Feb 2010 12:03:10 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11776.aspx Brazil and Argentina called on Friday for reforms at the Inter-American Development Bank, saying the regional lender had failed to understand the needs of Latin America during the global financial crisis. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11775.aspx Tue, 16 Feb 2010 16:39:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11775.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11772.aspx Sat, 13 Feb 2010 20:15:04 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11772.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11771.aspx Sat, 13 Feb 2010 20:08:59 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11771.aspx So-called extractivism, which includes mineral and oil exploitation, has a long history in Latin America. Current exports have been nourished by extractivist activities. Extractivism has continued to play a key role in national economies. It has also occupied a place at the center of powerful struggles because of its economic, social, and environmental impacts. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11769.aspx Fri, 12 Feb 2010 13:31:34 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11769.aspx The Union of South American Nations, Unasur, leaders agreed Tuesday to provide 300 million US dollars in aid to Haiti at a summit in Ecuador which left aside regional disputes that have undermined relations since 2008. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11766.aspx Fri, 12 Feb 2010 11:19:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11766.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11765.aspx Thu, 11 Feb 2010 09:23:29 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11765.aspx Without transparency the energy agreement would be less accountable http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11764.aspx Tue, 09 Feb 2010 10:24:52 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11764.aspx Brazil and Argentina will present a proposal for reform of the Inter-American Development Bank at the next meeting of G-20 nations, Brazilian Finance Minister Guido Mantega said Friday, according to the Estado news agency. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11763.aspx Sun, 07 Feb 2010 08:41:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11763.aspx On the eve of Friday's meeting by G7 finance ministers in Iqaluit, Canada, 94 members of the House of Representatives sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner that also called for 'the provision of assistance to Haiti in the form of grants so that the country does not accumulate additional debts. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11762.aspx Sat, 06 Feb 2010 19:50:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11762.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11761.aspx Sat, 06 Feb 2010 11:45:12 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11761.aspx Despite Kayapo protests over flawed consultation process, IBAMA has granted a preliminary license to move forward with the 11,000 MW - $20 billion Belo Monte hydroelectric dam. Brazilian government officials have threatened the Para Public Ministry not to bring lawsuits to block the dam. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11759.aspx Fri, 05 Feb 2010 09:35:24 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11759.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11757.aspx Wed, 03 Feb 2010 20:01:04 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11757.aspx "The World Bank released a study that finally put the impacts of climate change, deforestation and fires together. The tipping point for the Amazon is 20 percent deforestation," and that is "a scary result," Tom Lovejoy, a member of the external review panel for the report, told Tierramérica in an interview. The study, "Assessment of the Risk of Amazon Dieback," released Jan. 22, drew on the expertise of several international research institutions, including Japan's Meteorological Research Institute, Britain's Exeter University, Brazil's Centre for Weather Forecasting and Climate Change (CPET/INPE), Germany's Potsdam Institute and Earth3000. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11756.aspx Wed, 03 Feb 2010 19:46:53 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11756.aspx The principal indigenous federation of the Madre de Dios region of Peru issued a press release rejecting the proposed construction of the Inambari dam and call for the immediate suspension of the project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11750.aspx Mon, 01 Feb 2010 10:28:58 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11750.aspx Book Launch: Jan. 26 & 27, 2009 - Lima, Peru: Peruvian Amazon in 2021-Infrastructure and the Exploitation of Natural Resources: What is happening and what does it mean for the future? by Marc Dourojeanni, Alberto Barandiarán y Diego Dourojeanni is a publication in which the authors fill a informational gap that exists for Peruvian citizens regarding what the government and private investors plan to do in the coming decade in the Peruvian Amazon. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11748.aspx Thu, 28 Jan 2010 11:33:38 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11748.aspx 19 educational institutions will be lost in the construction of the Inambari hydroelectric center, affecting 634 students if the government goes forward with the project, which will benefit Brazil. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11745.aspx Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:35:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11745.aspx An interview with Roxana Torres Camacho, of the Association of Biologists of Puno, who asserts that the construction of the Inambari hydroelectric dam will not only spur the disappearance and death of plants and animals, but may even increase the spread of diseases among humans. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11743.aspx Tue, 26 Jan 2010 10:54:19 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11743.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11739.aspx Fri, 22 Jan 2010 20:00:30 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11739.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11738.aspx Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:29:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11738.aspx All the latest news from the IDB Global Capital Increase (GCI-9) and the Annual Meetings taking place from March 19-23, 2010 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11736.aspx Thu, 21 Jan 2010 14:02:40 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11736.aspx The Andean Development Corporation (CAF) confirmed today that it has approved an additional loan of 200 million dollars for the implementation of the final phase of of sections 2, 3 and 4 of the Southern Interoceanic Highway (CVIS). The total cost of the project, originally set at $892 million in 2006 could now exceed $2 billion. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11735.aspx Wed, 20 Jan 2010 16:54:49 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11735.aspx The Andean Development Corporation (CAF) approved a loan of 200 million dollars to Peru for the implementation of the final phase of sections 2, 3 and 4 of the Southern Interoceanic Highway (CVIS), the organization confirmed today. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11731.aspx Tue, 19 Jan 2010 14:21:24 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11731.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11729.aspx Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11729.aspx As the world grapples with the ongoing disaster in Haiti, many are asking what went wrong in the once rich colony to leave it so vulnerable and impoverished. The Nation's Richard Kim looks at how structural adjustment loans from IFIs have exacerbated Haiti's woes, and how a new loan will continue the cycle. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11730.aspx Tue, 19 Jan 2010 11:44:40 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11730.aspx Brazil's Ministry of Transport, in partnership with the National Departament of Infrastructure and Transport (DNIT) will begin to implement water transport projects over the next 20 years. The projects will be supported by the World Bank Strategic Waterway Plan. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11734.aspx Wed, 20 Jan 2010 13:31:09 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11734.aspx Fander Falconi was the third government official to resign over a plan to seek international donations of $3 billion over the next 10 years to keep an estimated 850 million barrels of heavy crude oil under the ground in the remote Yasuni National Park. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11728.aspx Sat, 16 Jan 2010 23:09:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11728.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11721.aspx Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11721.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11720.aspx Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11720.aspx El complejo del Rio Madeira es un emprendimiento prioritario dentro de la iniciativa IIRSA y el Plan de Aceleramiento del Desarrollo (PAC) del gobierno brasilero. El complejo del río Madeira en los planes de infraestructura http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11719.aspx Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11719.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11718.aspx Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11718.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11717.aspx Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11717.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11716.aspx Wed, 06 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11716.aspx Indigenous, university, academic and NGO organizations participated in the symposium on Vivir Bien within the V Latin American and Social Science Conference (CLASO) in La Paz, Bolivia. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11714.aspx Sun, 10 Jan 2010 09:33:54 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11714.aspx Indigenous and small farmer communities of Pando and Brazil participated in a workshop convened by CEADESC about the social and enviromental impacts of IIRSA megaprojects such as the Northern Corridor Highway, the Rio Madeira Hydroelectric Dams in late August, 2009 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11713.aspx Sun, 10 Jan 2010 09:23:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11713.aspx President Evo Morales’s leftist government, which has asserted greater control over some of South America’s most coveted natural gas reserves, is facing a challenge as neighboring countries move to achieve energy security by cutting their dependence on Bolivian gas supplies. New gas projects in Brazil and Argentina have come on line at a time when Mr. Morales is winning plaudits for a strong economy. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11712.aspx Sun, 10 Jan 2010 08:45:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11712.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11711.aspx Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11711.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11710.aspx Thu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11710.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11709.aspx Mon, 04 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11709.aspx The road sector will be the main beneficiary with the unprecedented investment of U.S. $ 1 billion the government has budgeted for infrastructure during 2010 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11707.aspx Thu, 07 Jan 2010 11:13:19 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11707.aspx The government announced that this year will launch the construction of large projects such as the hydroelectric dam of Coca-Codo Sinclair and different opening of new roads. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11706.aspx Thu, 07 Jan 2010 07:55:35 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11706.aspx The construction company blames illegal mining, while the authorities blame the own construction company http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11704.aspx Tue, 05 Jan 2010 00:20:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11704.aspx The Plurinational Government of Bolivia has invited social movements, defenders of Mother Earth, scientists, academics, lawyers, government officials that want to work with their citizens to a World Peoples Conference on Climate Change and the Rights of Nature to be held in Cochabamba, Bolivia from 20- 22 of Abril, 2010. Bolivia. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11702.aspx Sun, 03 Jan 2010 08:42:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11702.aspx Brazil's Amazon Fund committed first $40 million to five NGO projects to reduce deforestation. Projects focus on monitoring, environmentally-responsible land use, forest protection, and payments for avoiding deforestation. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11701.aspx Wed, 30 Dec 2009 16:30:47 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11701.aspx BIC Executive Director Chad Dobson signed the letter to IDB president Luis Alberto Moreno after the approval of the San Francisco-Mocoa Alternate Road Construction Project. The letter notes how constructive dialogue with civil society led to many improvements in the project and encourages some of these commitments to be formalized during the general capital increase. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11698.aspx Tue, 22 Dec 2009 10:45:21 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11698.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11696.aspx Sat, 19 Dec 2009 08:16:45 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11696.aspx Last Saturday, elements of the Peruvian National Police violently suppressed residents of San Labán, Puno during a protest opposing the construction of the Inambari hydroelectric dam. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11695.aspx Wed, 16 Dec 2009 11:05:40 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11695.aspx Indigenous leader calls for suspension of REDD activities. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11693.aspx Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11693.aspx Straddling one the Amazon's main tributaries and flanked by dense jungle, a construction pit the size of a small town bustles with bulldozers and nearly 10,000 workers blasting huge slabs of rock off the river bank. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11690.aspx Mon, 14 Dec 2009 10:42:06 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11690.aspx New position paper outlines hard choices banks must make if they wish to be part of the solution to the climate crisis http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11689.aspx Mon, 14 Dec 2009 10:16:11 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11689.aspx Colombia asserts that it does not deforest to clear land for palm plantations and is seeking support for investment in biofuels. The Minister of Environment proposes zoning of national territory to identify appropriate zones for palm plantations "so that we all have a clear understanding of where we should go with palm plantations in this country and to avoid unorganized, poorly planned development". http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11686.aspx Fri, 11 Dec 2009 11:24:46 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11686.aspx A BBC crew traveled twelve days from Manaus to Porto Velho documenting the debate over the rehabilitation of the BR 319 Amazon Highway http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11679.aspx Sat, 05 Dec 2009 09:49:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11679.aspx The government of Peru approved a resolution authorizing the use of a non-reimbursable technical cooperation from the CAF to begin the design of second generation project to mitigate the direct and indirect impacts of the Southern Interoceanic Highway. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11678.aspx Sat, 05 Dec 2009 08:45:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11678.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11676.aspx Fri, 04 Dec 2009 08:03:28 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11676.aspx Greenpeace recently released a report which illustrates clearly why REDD offset projects will neither address climate change nor stop deforestation. The report, “Carbon Scam: Noel Kempff Climate Action Project and the Push for Sub-national Forest Offsets“, looks in detail at the Noel Kempff Climate Action Project in Bolivia. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11674.aspx Thu, 03 Dec 2009 12:29:23 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11674.aspx In the Ecuadorean Amazon basin our thirst for oil has triggered an eco-disaster: wholesale pollution and catastrophic cancer rates. And a bloody turf war has broken out. Ecuador is taking a survival plan to the Copenhagen Climate Change Conference. But will western governments listen? http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11673.aspx Thu, 03 Dec 2009 10:47:28 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11673.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11672.aspx Thu, 03 Dec 2009 10:23:08 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11672.aspx The Peruvian head of state reiterated the country's need to become a great energy power in South America. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11668.aspx Tue, 01 Dec 2009 10:22:31 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11668.aspx The Bolivian government and IDB have signed funding agreements totaling US$262mn to finance a number of development initiatives in the country, according to a communications official at IDB's Bolivian office. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11667.aspx Mon, 30 Nov 2009 11:17:20 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11667.aspx Public money in Brazil is being used by the state development bank to finance deforestation projects and others that trample rights, concentrate wealth, and encourage "imperialist" expansion of large national companies, according to activists at a three-day meeting in Rio de Janeiro. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11665.aspx Mon, 30 Nov 2009 10:48:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11665.aspx IDB President Moreno evades definitive response to observed socio-environmental threats caused by IIRSA project, Road Interconnection, Pucallpa-Cruzeiro do Sul (Peru-Brazil). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11664.aspx Sat, 28 Nov 2009 12:00:40 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11664.aspx Frustration. That was the sentiment felt by the representatives of those impacted by BNDES-financed projects. The group of social leaders met with the institution's president, Luciano Coutinho at bank headquarters, on November 25, however the meeting did not result in the acknowledgement of any of their claims. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11662.aspx Sat, 28 Nov 2009 10:24:28 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11662.aspx Saturday the 22 of August in Villa Tunari, Cochabamba, an agreement between Bolivia and Brasil was finalized to build a highway between Cochabamba (Villa Tunari) and Beni (San Ignacio de Moxos). Highway to Beni: Villa Tunari - San Ignacio de Moxos http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11661.aspx Sat, 28 Nov 2009 08:54:33 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11661.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11660.aspx Fri, 27 Nov 2009 20:49:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11660.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11659.aspx Fri, 27 Nov 2009 20:35:17 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11659.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11658.aspx Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:52:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11658.aspx The Bolivian state intends to recover its dominant role in the electricity sector through the execution of 13 large and medium size energy generation projects through the national Electricity Company (ENDE) with a planned investment of between $ 5.5 and 6 billion. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11657.aspx Fri, 27 Nov 2009 08:28:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11657.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11656.aspx Fri, 27 Nov 2009 08:17:31 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11656.aspx Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Ecuador, Bolivia and Venezuela signed an agreement on Monday inaugurating a new regional development bank which will lend only to member countries for projects implemented in South America. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11655.aspx Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:50:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11655.aspx The project, to be signed next December, will allow both countries to take advantage of transport via the Huallaga, Marañón and Amazon rivers. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11654.aspx Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:08:02 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11654.aspx The Inambari dam would flood 120 km of the Interoceanic Highway, on which upgrading work has already begun. It seems that in both Peru and Brazil the ministries of transport and of energy don’t talk to each other. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11651.aspx Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:09:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11651.aspx "The new roads and waterways have to be built, but built in compliance with local communities looking for protection of the forest," said Marina Silva, a senator from the western Brazilian state of Acre, and the country's former environment minister. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11650.aspx Mon, 23 Nov 2009 16:01:52 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11650.aspx According to a World Bank study, Cartagena and the rest of the Caribbean coastal zone could see sea levels rising as much as 2 feet by the end of the century. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11649.aspx Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:48:01 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11649.aspx An investigation by the Brazilian daily Folha de Brasil revealed the involvement of ex-Minister of Mining and Energy Silas Rondeau in a bribery scandal favoring the Brazilian company Engevix for the construction of six hydroelectric centers in Peru at a cost of US$ 16 billion. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11639.aspx Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:22:20 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11639.aspx Documents from the informational forum held in Madre de Dios stated that the hydroelectric center's reservoir would flood all territory below 540 meter above sea level, covering approximately 410 square kilometers. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11638.aspx Tue, 17 Nov 2009 11:51:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11638.aspx Latin American water crises require bold investments and strategic alliances, IDB president says. Luis Alberto Moreno warns about impact of climate change on key sectors of region's economy; highlights sustainable solutions. Latin America is facing multiple water crises with far-reaching consequences for health, food security, renewable energy sources and export competitiveness, Moreno said today. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11637.aspx Tue, 17 Nov 2009 11:41:10 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11637.aspx In a statement from President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the Brazilian government announced that the rate of deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon was reduced by 45% between August 2008 and July 2009 compared to the previous year. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11636.aspx Tue, 17 Nov 2009 10:28:45 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11636.aspx Two days after the United States and China again refused to sign an agreement to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, the United Nations expressed its expectation that a legally binding international agreement on the issue will be ratified in Mexico in late 2010. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11635.aspx Tue, 17 Nov 2009 09:39:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11635.aspx The Inter-American Development Bank and the World Bank will invest in the development of six hydrological basins, located in mining areas around the country during the next five years, according to the coordinator of the hydrological resource management modernization project of the National Water Authority (ANA). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11634.aspx Mon, 16 Nov 2009 13:08:45 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11634.aspx According to studies, the Chaglla hydroelectric center will have an installed potential of 360 MW and its construction could begin as early as the second trimester of 2010. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11633.aspx Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:50:29 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11633.aspx The rich world fails to understand that loans to developing countries are not the answer to climate change. An avalanche of new loans to developing countries who are already repaying debts at a rate of five times what they receive in aid every year solves nothing. Even more troubling, the World Bank will oversee these loans - an institution at the very heart of carbon-fuelled growth and Third World debt. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11632.aspx Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:36:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11632.aspx The following video was presented to the Inter-American Comission on Human Rights in Washington, protesting the construction of mega-projects financed by the World Bank and IDB. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11631.aspx Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:19:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11631.aspx Guyana and Norway on Monday inked an agreement that will see Oslo paying up to a total of US$250 million by 2015 for Guyana to preserve its forests. Norway will provide financial support to Guyana based on its success in limiting emissions, enabling Guyana to begin implementation of its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). Terms of the deal stipulate Guyana must take action on issues of transparency and accountability before any money is disbursed. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11629.aspx Wed, 11 Nov 2009 12:00:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11629.aspx A new report prepared by GAP shows that the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the most important multilateral lender to Latin America, fails to promote racial equality adequately. The issue affects the identification, preparation, and implementation of IDB programs and projects in the region, as well as the Bank’s hiring, retention, and promotion practices. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11627.aspx Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:18:47 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11627.aspx AIDA, International Rivers, and IMDEC present evidence of human rights violations from dams. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11626.aspx Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:14:36 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11626.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11624.aspx Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:04:34 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11624.aspx Parliament Representative from Puno, Susana Vilca Achata, presented a declaration from civil society of the Carabaya province to the vice minister of Energy and Mining, Daniel Camac Gutiérrez, in which they demanded public consultation before construction of the Inambari mega-project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11623.aspx Tue, 10 Nov 2009 11:58:48 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11623.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11622.aspx Tue, 10 Nov 2009 11:50:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11622.aspx Ex Minister of Energy and Mining, Carlos Herrera Descalzi, asserts that Peru's energy demand over the next several years puts the country at a disadvantage regarding the hydroelectric project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11621.aspx Tue, 10 Nov 2009 11:49:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11621.aspx Indigenous groups from Bolivia, Brazil and Peru filed a case against their respective governments Nov. 2 in the Washington-based Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, alleging that the Initiative for the Integration of Regional Infrastructure in South America, or IIRSA, is causing collective human rights violations against their communities. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11620.aspx Tue, 10 Nov 2009 11:36:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11620.aspx The Bolivian president demanded today that the "gendarmes of the global economy" pay for damages that the capitalist system has caused to the environment. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11618.aspx Mon, 09 Nov 2009 11:42:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11618.aspx Within 90 days, all US federal agencies must submit a plan for implementation of regular, meaningful, previous consultation processes with indigenous peoples. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11617.aspx Sun, 08 Nov 2009 08:05:42 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11617.aspx On Wednesday, Argentina became a full member of the Andean Finance Corporation, of which it had been a series C shareholder since it joined in 2001, as confirmed in a statement from the Argentine Minister of Economy. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11613.aspx Thu, 05 Nov 2009 11:52:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11613.aspx In 2009, Development Policy Operations increased dramatically as a percentage of overall World Bank lending, from an average of about 33% to over 50%. Dogged by concerns that stem from a lack of a strong set of safeguard policies or clear results, this shift to greater dependence on DPLs/DPOs raises concerns about arbitrage by Bank clients to soften or avoid transparency and accountability commitments. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11612.aspx Thu, 05 Nov 2009 11:24:27 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11612.aspx The Inter-American Development Bank emitted the following response to a letter dated September 30th, in which members of civil society outlined recommendations for the minimum conditions that the new Independent Consultation and Investigation Mechanism (ICIM) should satisfy. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11611.aspx Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:34:26 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11611.aspx The World Bank is quietly preparing the first capital increase in nearly 20 years to replenish the coffers after unprecedented lending in 2008 and the coming two years. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11608.aspx Thu, 05 Nov 2009 08:13:29 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11608.aspx Guadalajara Civil Society Meetings in Guadalajara, Mexico open with increased demands for consultation process accountability, transparency guarantees. Good faith participation by CSOs rests on Bank decision to disclose and discuss a second draft of the proposed revisions to the Independent Consultation and Inspection Mechanism (ICIM). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11606.aspx Thu, 05 Nov 2009 07:29:07 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11606.aspx Environmental agency Ibama will still have to issue the final permission for Belo Monte construction. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11604.aspx Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:08:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11604.aspx Output would help cover demand in Francisco de Orellana and Sucumbíos provinces as well as oil sector demand. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11603.aspx Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:54:18 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11603.aspx The Confederación Andina de Organizaciones Indígenas de Perú (CAIO), the Organización Indígena Chiquitana de Bolivia (OICH), el Centro de Estudios Aplicados a los Derechos Económicos, Sociales y Culturales de Bolivia (CEADESC), Comunidades Nativas de Pueblos Indígenas de Rondonia de Brasil and Indian Law Resource Center today denounced various IIRSA projects at the Inter-American Court for Human Rights in Washingtion DC for the violation of the right to free and prior informed consent of indigenous peoples. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11601.aspx Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:18:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11601.aspx The 220 km IIRSA project will cut through territory of the indigenous communities of Flor de Ucayali and others in the Iskonahua Territorial reserve. Indigenous groups have expressed concern over the consequences forced contact could have on these groups, which live in voluntary isolation. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11600.aspx Tue, 03 Nov 2009 10:54:46 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11600.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11598.aspx Tue, 03 Nov 2009 07:33:07 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11598.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11597.aspx Mon, 02 Nov 2009 10:54:58 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11597.aspx The legal council of the Ministry of Environment of Brazil approved last Wednesday a financing package of 34.7 million dollars for the National Environmental Program (PNMA). 24.3 million will be provided by the World Bank (IBRD) and the rest will be financed by the Brazilian government. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11591.aspx Thu, 29 Oct 2009 11:25:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11591.aspx The bid to include forests in initiatives to mitigate climate change is turning out to be a sensitive issue for the planet. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11590.aspx Thu, 29 Oct 2009 10:16:46 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11590.aspx "Climate change has been produced principally by the rich countries, but it most affects the countries of the third world," President Rafael Correa said in London. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11589.aspx Thu, 29 Oct 2009 09:39:10 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11589.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11586.aspx Mon, 26 Oct 2009 21:08:27 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11586.aspx The “Corina” megaproject will require a total investment of US$ 10 billion, to be provided by the central government and private capital sources. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11584.aspx Mon, 26 Oct 2009 10:16:18 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11584.aspx A $150 million loan will help expand and refurbish the road network, putting the country on a stronger economic footing. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11582.aspx Sun, 25 Oct 2009 11:02:23 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11582.aspx On October 12, the Agency for Promotion of Private Investment (ProInversión) approved contract bidding for purchase of energy from hydroelectric centers, which are expected to begin supply between 2013 and 2015, stated Executive Director Cayetana Aljovín. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11581.aspx Sun, 25 Oct 2009 10:50:59 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11581.aspx Investors promise to address the growing demand for gas in Peru. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11580.aspx Sun, 25 Oct 2009 10:28:45 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11580.aspx The Minister was questioned by Congress on persistent complaints about a gas shortage on the local market. Now the Minister claims that there are 15 TCF in gas reserves, which will supply the internal market for a period of up to 27 years. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11579.aspx Sun, 25 Oct 2009 10:09:15 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11579.aspx Small and medium-scale mining in Peru are no longer artisan activities. They have become a veritable machinery complex, moving millions of dollars on the black market. The general director of Mining at the Ministry of Energy and Mines, Víctor Vargas, acknowledged that this activity is no longer exclusive to Puno and Madre de Dios, and has in fact extended throughout the entire country. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11578.aspx Sun, 25 Oct 2009 10:03:51 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11578.aspx Bolivian President Evo Morales announced the implementation of several development projects in the Amazon department of Pando in hopes of making it a center of development in the country. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11577.aspx Sun, 25 Oct 2009 09:46:02 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11577.aspx On June 5th, the Legislative Assembly of Rondônia convened a public hearing to seek alternatives for expediting resources amounting to approximately one billion reais, to be applied works directly on the federal highways in Rondônia. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11576.aspx Sun, 25 Oct 2009 08:43:58 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11576.aspx The environmental license of the project was granted by MAVDT in December of 2008 and includes strict environmental standards that guarantee the protection of ecosystems affected by the highway. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11575.aspx Sun, 25 Oct 2009 08:23:59 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11575.aspx According to specialists, the unprecedented energy inefficiency of the project and the accelerated public hearing process demonstrate that the government and contractors will push for a large project at any cost. The Panel of Specialists warned the government and public about this grave mistake, whose real costs are unknown and whose environmental impact studies are incomplete. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11574.aspx Sun, 25 Oct 2009 08:17:31 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11574.aspx Eletrobras, Latin America’s largest electric utility, may build a $4.8 billion hydroelectric project in northern Peru, according to a government official interviewed by Bloomberg. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11573.aspx Sun, 25 Oct 2009 08:03:01 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11573.aspx The hydroelectric project that will cost US$1.979 million will provide 75% of the electricity needs of the country. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11572.aspx Sun, 25 Oct 2009 07:49:01 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11572.aspx The country plans to triple installed capacity with 3,290 MW of added hydroeletric power in the next 13 years in order to restrict thermoelectric power. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11571.aspx Sun, 25 Oct 2009 07:40:43 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11571.aspx A first loan for $350 million to finance investments in key bridge, maintenance work, road safety http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11569.aspx Sun, 25 Oct 2009 07:31:45 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11569.aspx A new independent review by a panel of 40 Brazilian experts show the true costs of the Belo Monte Hydroelectric Project, planned for the Xingu River in the Brazilian Amazon. The panel found that the dam would have serious consequences for the region, its inhabitants, and ecosystems of the Amazon rainforest. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11568.aspx Sat, 24 Oct 2009 09:37:31 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11568.aspx According to the executive secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Isabella Teixeira, the Brazilian Institute of Environment (IBAMA) is studying a way to streamline licensing by issuing regional licenses to address the country's increasing energy demands. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11566.aspx Sat, 24 Oct 2009 08:13:28 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11566.aspx BNDES has invested close to $R 5 bilion in the last two years as shareholders in the largest beef shippers, including JBS Friboi and Bertin. In Bertin alone, BNDES has purchased 27% equity position. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11565.aspx Sat, 24 Oct 2009 07:55:18 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11565.aspx Education in the Context of Multiple Crises http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11564.aspx Sat, 24 Oct 2009 07:45:36 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11564.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11563.aspx Sat, 24 Oct 2009 07:28:20 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11563.aspx Lula and Evo coordinate the return of 1,000 Brazilians located in Pando. Some call for the defense of their lands. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11562.aspx Sat, 24 Oct 2009 07:08:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11562.aspx The Prefect of Santa Cruz, Rubén Costas, and EU ambassador Kenny Bell inaugurated 14 bridges, a viaduct and six road accesses. The projects were financed as part of the fourth section of the bioceanic corrdior Santa Cruz-Arroyo Concepción. Bolivia receives more European financial assistance than any other country in the region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11561.aspx Sat, 24 Oct 2009 06:58:40 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11561.aspx Astaldi fined $6 million, Paraíso-El Tinto section also behind schedule http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11560.aspx Sat, 24 Oct 2009 06:41:10 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11560.aspx A report recently released by Greenpeace illustrates clearly why REDD offset projects will neither address climate change nor stop deforestation. The report questions the claims made by the project developers about leakage, additionality, permanence and the ability of the project developers to measure accurately the amount of carbon stored in the forest. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11559.aspx Thu, 22 Oct 2009 11:05:34 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11559.aspx Venezuela and the Inter-American Development Bank on Tuesday signed the agreement for an $800 million loan to finance part of the Manuel Piar hydroelectric center, Finance Minister Ali Rodriguez said. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11558.aspx Thu, 22 Oct 2009 10:42:07 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11558.aspx The Corina project would be Peru’s largest hydropower facility, with a capacity of 9,000 MW, he said. Eletrobras is the government-owned electric utility of Brazil. Peru and Brazil are considering several new hydroelectric projects with an investment outlay of more than $15 billion. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11557.aspx Wed, 21 Oct 2009 17:16:19 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11557.aspx On Wednesday, Fonam will host the IV International Carbon Market Seminar: Carbon Projects as a new business opportunity. The event is sponsored by the Minister of Environment, the UN Development Programme and and the World Bank Carbon Finance Unit. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11556.aspx Wed, 21 Oct 2009 12:25:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11556.aspx Representatives from social and environmental organisations and movements met recently for two days in Belém, Pará state, Brazil to discuss REDD. After the meeting they produced the following letter calling on the Government of Brazil to reject REDD as a carbon market-based mechanism, and as a way of compensating emissions from Northern countries. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11555.aspx Wed, 21 Oct 2009 11:58:59 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11555.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11554.aspx Wed, 21 Oct 2009 11:32:15 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11554.aspx It was confirmed yesterday that Mexico will receive 1.504 billion dollars in financing for “encouraging green growth”; the loan will focus on economic strengthening and environmental programs. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11553.aspx Wed, 21 Oct 2009 09:32:04 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11553.aspx Declaration of the Peruvian College of Engineers (CIP) published in El Comercio October 19 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11552.aspx Tue, 20 Oct 2009 10:19:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11552.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11551.aspx Tue, 20 Oct 2009 07:24:30 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11551.aspx The two leaders are pushing for the meeting in hopes that "all countries in the region with Amazon territory arrive at the Climate Change Summit in Copenhagen in December of this year with a unified strategy ", explained Lula da Silva. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11550.aspx Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:48:48 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11550.aspx The tribunal will hold its first hearing in Cochabamba, Bolivia today, judging the multinationals and states responsible for global warming and violating the rights of the people and Mother Nature. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11549.aspx Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:41:01 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11549.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11548.aspx Mon, 19 Oct 2009 12:24:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11548.aspx A first loan for $350 million to finance investments in key bridge, maintenance work, road safety http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11545.aspx Fri, 16 Oct 2009 10:07:23 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11545.aspx In Latin America, Brazil is the leader in the development of renewable energies, while nations like Mexico, Peru, Chile and Argentina are taking slow steps to change their energy mix. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11544.aspx Thu, 15 Oct 2009 10:38:29 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11544.aspx The Minister of Transport and Communications granted the company concession for Section 2 of the IIRSA Centro highway, which includes the stretch between the Ricardo Palma Bridge (Lima) - La Oroya (Junín) and La Oroya - Huancayo. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11543.aspx Thu, 15 Oct 2009 10:17:04 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11543.aspx The most worrying feature of the proposed Inambari hydroelectric project is the manner in which the central government has made the decision to build the dam, leaving at the margins of the decision making process regional and local authorities, civil society, and in particular, the inhabitants of the planned construction zones. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11541.aspx Mon, 12 Oct 2009 13:58:38 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11541.aspx At a congress in Manaus new hydroelectric and highway projects were questioned. Clergy members from the Catholic Church rmeeting in Brazil stated that the idea that indigenous peoples hinder economic development is false. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11540.aspx Mon, 12 Oct 2009 08:09:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11540.aspx Pando on the one year anniversay of the Porvenir Massacre http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11538.aspx Sat, 10 Oct 2009 08:39:06 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11538.aspx The problems of the Camisea I project should be more carefully examined before the IFC approves another $300 million loan in February for the Camisea II project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11536.aspx Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:59:53 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11536.aspx Peru approves Law Nº 27446, which establishes a national Environmental Impact Assessment system http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11535.aspx Thu, 08 Oct 2009 14:38:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11535.aspx At a ceremony in Roraima, Lula announced that Minister of Mines and Energy, Edison Lobao and president of the Brazilian National Development Bank (BNDES), Luciano Coutinho will meet in Guyana in October to discuss the matter with Guyanese president Bharrat Jagdeo. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11534.aspx Thu, 08 Oct 2009 14:13:09 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11534.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11533.aspx Thu, 08 Oct 2009 13:49:59 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11533.aspx “It's difficult to say whether Inambari or the other dams will represent a benefit to Peru. What is evident is that the construction of large dams on Amazonian rivers will have enormous economic repercussions in terms of foreign debt, and obviously extreme social and environmental impacts. The truth is that we are obligated to reflect on these impacts before embarking on construction”, said Marc Dourojeanni, consultant to the IDB. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11532.aspx Thu, 08 Oct 2009 13:46:22 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11532.aspx Sociedad Civil por la Carretera Transoceánica (SOCIT) accused the College of Engineers of Peru (CIP) of altering the final conclusions of the Regional Forum “Construction of the Inambari Hydroelectric Station", organized and hosted by the college August 28 and 29. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11531.aspx Thu, 08 Oct 2009 13:43:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11531.aspx The renowed journalist stated on Pachamama Radio that the construction of the Inambari Hydroelectric Station should be decided through a referedum, given what he described as an attitude of conquest and disrespect toward local regions among authorities in Lima. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11530.aspx Thu, 08 Oct 2009 10:29:58 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11530.aspx "We're working with the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) to work out the details of a new credit for the final stage of the project, which will be approved by the end of the year", stated AFC representative Eleonora Silva. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11529.aspx Thu, 08 Oct 2009 10:16:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11529.aspx National congresswoman Susana Vilca warned that granting definitive concession to the Inambari Hyrdoelectric Station to EGASUR would be permanent, as stipulated in the Law of Electric Concessions. Definitive concessions for the development of electric projects are granted for unspecified periods of time. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11528.aspx Thu, 08 Oct 2009 09:59:09 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11528.aspx In the Regional Forum “Construction of the Inambari Hydroelectric Station” which took place August 28 and 29, the College of Engineers of Peru reached some critical conclusions surrounding the proposed hydroelectric project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11527.aspx Wed, 07 Oct 2009 16:18:10 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11527.aspx Disregard of environmental impacts, lack of foresight on how to compensate the families who will be impacted by the work, and overestimation of energy and jobs that will be generated. According to investigators, prosecutors and civil society organizations, these are just some of the flaws in the Environmental Impact Assessment of the hydroelectric plant of Belo Monte, planned for construction on the Xingu River. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11524.aspx Wed, 07 Oct 2009 15:42:58 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11524.aspx Companies such as Vale, Votorantim, CSN and Alcoa evaluate possible partnership in the venture. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11523.aspx Wed, 07 Oct 2009 15:37:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11523.aspx Minister Dominique Strauss-Kahn indicated that "no formal outcomes" were reached during his meeting with the managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), in Istanbul. The meeting in Istanbul took place during the financial organization's annual meeting with the World Bank. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11522.aspx Wed, 07 Oct 2009 13:55:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11522.aspx The rapid recovery of the Brazilian economy could attract a disproportionate amount of foreign capital and further elevate the value of the real, the IMF warned today, recommending that the Brazilian government consider trimming their stimulus package. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11521.aspx Tue, 06 Oct 2009 11:49:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11521.aspx The IDB must implement crucial reforms before a capital inrease is approved. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11519.aspx Tue, 06 Oct 2009 09:37:21 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11519.aspx Civil Society outlines their concerns about socio-environmental impacts of the IIRSA project "Road Interconnection: Pucallpa-Cruzeiro do Sul" and demands that the IDB promote more transparency and public consultation in the IIRSA process. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11514.aspx Fri, 02 Oct 2009 10:30:58 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11514.aspx Economy and Finance Minister Luis Carranza annouced today that the Development Finance Corporation (Cofide in Spanish) will contribute $100 million in capital to the Joint Infrastructure Investment Fund of Peru, created by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Andean Finance Corporation (CAF). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11512.aspx Thu, 01 Oct 2009 12:39:52 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11512.aspx “Backing from AFC and the IFC would allow us to improve the structuring of bonds”, the Andean agency said today. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11511.aspx Thu, 01 Oct 2009 12:21:30 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11511.aspx In this letter, members of civil society outline the minimum conditions which they feel the Independent Consultation and Investigation Mechanism (ICIM) must meet. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11508.aspx Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:11:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11508.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11507.aspx Wed, 30 Sep 2009 14:40:12 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11507.aspx In November of 2008, the WB announced a US$ 1.3 billion development policy loan to the Brazilian National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES). The DPL is the first operation in a series of two loans which span the period 2008-2010. In this article, we review the background and concerns associated with development policy lending since 2004, specifically the lack of transparency, accountability, and a clear public consultation plan. We then offer a detailed analysis of the Brazilian Sustainable Environmental Management (SEM) DPL. Civil society firmly believes that until practices of transparency and dialogue between the World Bank, the Brazilian government and civil society organizations are truly adopted, the laudable goals of the SEM DPL will not be achieved. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11505.aspx Wed, 30 Sep 2009 11:07:51 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11505.aspx "The fund will be for cost-effective infrastructure projects. In Peru we have a deficit of between 7 and 10 billion dollars in infrastructure”, IDB director for Peru, Ana María Rodríguez told reporters. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11504.aspx Wed, 30 Sep 2009 09:56:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11504.aspx The Bank of the South, a project finance bank of South American countries, will start with $7 billion in capital and will grow to $20 billion, the Venezuelan Finance Minister said. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11501.aspx Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:52:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11501.aspx Earlier this month, Brazilian President Luis Inacio Lula DaSilva flew more than 1,600 kilometres from his base in Brasilia to a remote state on the Guyanese frontier to formally commission a border river bridge with his country's English-speaking neighbour. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11499.aspx Mon, 28 Sep 2009 11:04:20 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11499.aspx Understanding desertification as a macroeconomic problem, with financial, productive, environmental and civil society aspects, is a major concern for Christian Mersmann, the managing director of the Global Mechanism of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11498.aspx Mon, 28 Sep 2009 10:55:51 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11498.aspx Leaders of the Achuar people are challenging a decision by the Peruvian government to declare that a clean-up effort by the PlusPetrol oil company in the northeastern Amazon jungle has been completed. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11497.aspx Mon, 28 Sep 2009 10:45:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11497.aspx Argentina, Brazil and Venezuela will raise their contribution levels to the Bank of the South to 4 billion dollars each. The bank's incorporation charter was signed yesterday by seven South American governors. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11495.aspx Mon, 28 Sep 2009 10:07:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11495.aspx The extension of the Central Railroad will benefit the investment projects of five mining companies. These companies, who anticipate an increase in production, say the train will facilitate transport of these products, according to the general manager of Cormin. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11494.aspx Fri, 25 Sep 2009 11:12:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11494.aspx Camisea. The Ministry of Energy and Mining to hire a consultant. Natural gas reserve estimates have been updated since 2004, causing Congress to question a new certification. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11493.aspx Fri, 25 Sep 2009 11:02:29 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11493.aspx According to Spanish government officials, this was one of the primary conclusions of the meeting held at UN headquarters in New York, where they met to coordinate their positions before the G-20 summit which begins this afternoon in Pittsburgh. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11492.aspx Fri, 25 Sep 2009 10:37:53 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11492.aspx In this article from Americas Quarterly, Bruce Babbit questions the economic benefits of the Interoceanic Corridor as purported by the Brazilian government, noting that the project will essentially be financed by the Peruvian government. He highlights the disastrous environmental and social impacts the project will have on the Amazon Basin, calling for a plan for climate change mitigation as ambitious as the plan for regional integration. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11490.aspx Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:21:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11490.aspx After a meeting between representatives of Hunt Oil Company and eight native communities of the Amarakaeri Reserve, locals protested, voicing their definitive opposition to company's plans to carry out new drilling projects in the area. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11486.aspx Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:39:02 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11486.aspx Last year's termination of many logging activities in the region of Altamira of western Pará caused an estimated loss of 30 thousand jobs in an area where the number of inhabitants is less than 350 thousand. In a place with many prospects for job creation, many see the Belo Monte hydroelectric project as the solution to their problems. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11485.aspx Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:24:24 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11485.aspx The bypass will reduce the volume of water in this part of the river considerably, having a large impact on the fauna and flora. There is also some concern that the forest will dry as well. Local leader José Carlos Arara says the environmental impact studies do not make clear how this project will affect the lives of Indians. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11484.aspx Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:11:20 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11484.aspx President of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, at the General Assembly of the United Nations, will ask for reform of the UN itself, as well as of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, a government spokesperson said. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11482.aspx Fri, 18 Sep 2009 09:58:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11482.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11478.aspx Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:48:24 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11478.aspx Colombia's Department of Planning announces a pledge of 796 billion pesos to finance a highway that would connect the cities of Tumaco, Pasto, Mocoa and Puerto Asís, part of the Regional Infrastructure Integration Initiative (IIRSA). The projects will be completed between 2010 and 2016. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11477.aspx Wed, 16 Sep 2009 13:10:01 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11477.aspx Because the Eletrobras-OAS and Furnas consortium of Brazil has not yet completed the feasability study for the project, Minister of Energy and Mining Pedro Sánchez, announced today that it will be June 2010 before the economic viability of construction of the Inambari hydroelectric center is determined. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11476.aspx Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:26:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11476.aspx Mining company Milpo plans to invest more than $20 million in exploration of mineral deposits in Peru during 2010, according to general manager Abraham Chahuán. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11475.aspx Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:08:17 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11475.aspx Peruvian and Brazilian authorities made progress on the design of a legal framework which would help solidify an energy integration agreement that benefits both countries and not just one, said Mining and Energy Minister Pedro Sánchez. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11474.aspx Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:00:55 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11474.aspx The National Development Bank of Brazil (BNDES) nearly quintupled its loan volume between 1997 and 2008, making it one of the largest development banks in the world. Last year, it disbursed loans in the amount of R$ 92.2 billion; as of July this year, it has already disbursed R$ 75.1 billion. Total 2009 loans could reach R$ 131 billion. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11473.aspx Wed, 16 Sep 2009 08:46:52 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11473.aspx The Madre de Dios River Native Federation (FENAMAD) appealed for protectionist measures against hydrocarbon companies Hunt Oil Exploration and Repsol Exploración Perú, citing the eventual harm that would be caused to the communities that live near the Amarakaeri Communal Reserve. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11470.aspx Tue, 15 Sep 2009 11:01:45 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11470.aspx Native assembly denounces the construction of the Inambari hydroelectric dam, amid fears of being displaced from their land. They threatened a repetition of the tragic events of Bagua, where police and civilians were killed. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11469.aspx Mon, 14 Sep 2009 17:00:22 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11469.aspx In a joint action by the Ministry of Labor (MPT) and the Ministry of Labor and Employment (MTE) in Rondonia, and with support from the federal police, 38 people registered in the State of Maranhão (in Parnarama) to work for Construtora BS in Jacy Paraná were rescued and have had their employment contracts terminated. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11468.aspx Mon, 14 Sep 2009 16:52:22 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11468.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11466.aspx Mon, 14 Sep 2009 16:45:30 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11466.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11461.aspx Thu, 10 Sep 2009 11:34:18 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11461.aspx The College expressed its profound surprise at the disinterest shown by the Minister of Environment upon failing to attend the Forum, and urged the Minister of Energy and Mining to publicly release the Concession Contract and its outcomes, regarding both the economic and social effects as well as mitigation measures for the environmental impact of the reservoir. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11460.aspx Thu, 10 Sep 2009 11:12:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11460.aspx This article provides an overview of a bi-national agreement between Brazil and Peru to construct six hyrdoelecrtric dams in Peruvian territory. Specifically, it compares the proposed Inambari project to a strikingly similar deal signed in 1973 between Brazil and Paraguay, which has since had disastrous consequences for Paraguay. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11459.aspx Thu, 10 Sep 2009 10:56:28 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11459.aspx The Andean Finance Corporation (CAF) is evaluating a new line of credit to finance the Southern Interoceanic Highway, which is to be approved early next year, CAF representative Elenora Silva reported today. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11458.aspx Thu, 10 Sep 2009 10:55:58 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11458.aspx Jorge Molina, of the Institute of Hydraulics and Hydrology of Bolivia, during the Symposium “Sustainable Hydroelectric Development in the Amazon and the Madeira River Basin Case". He criticized the current policy of Amazon countries concerning hydroelectric activity, allowing the implementation of mega projects in areas where the social and environmental impacts outweigh the possible benefits of such projects. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11457.aspx Thu, 10 Sep 2009 10:14:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11457.aspx In this month's bulletin, we examine some of the concerns about whether the Bank’s and the Brazilian government’s policies address climate change issues and the social and environmental impacts of these projects. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11454.aspx Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:27:12 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11454.aspx Interview with Esteban Espinoza Justo, a delegate of the National Coffee Board, coffee producer and law student about the demand for the construction of a highway bewteen the towns of Sina and Yanahuaya. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11455.aspx Wed, 09 Sep 2009 14:58:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11455.aspx This article discusses the changing relationship between the Bank and Brazil within the context of a new $1.3 billion Development Policy Loan. It includes a review of the background and concerns associated with development policy lending since 2004, and then offers a detailed analysis of the Brazilian Sustainable Environmental Management (SEM) DPL. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11453.aspx Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:05:34 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11453.aspx Recent evidence suggests that there will be irreversible loss of up to 85% of the Amazon forests by 2100. Still, the prospect of Amazon die-back remains a somewhat misunderstood threat due to perceived uncertainty with the climate models, but also because of the lack of visibility by development institutions. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11452.aspx Wed, 09 Sep 2009 11:38:45 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11452.aspx With most of Brazil's future hydroelectric potential in the Amazon, the government is pressing for scores of dams to be built over the next 20 years. However, these dams could disturb the fragile water balance of the Amazon, accelerating the drying of the forest, and expelling thousands of river-bank dwellers from their lands. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11451.aspx Wed, 09 Sep 2009 11:33:27 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11451.aspx Executive Summary http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11450.aspx Wed, 09 Sep 2009 11:14:10 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11450.aspx The Ministry of Environment estimates US$200 million in environmetal impacts caused by the planned Inambari Hydroelectric Project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11447.aspx Tue, 08 Sep 2009 10:29:38 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11447.aspx "We will not repeat the mistakes of other countries", because "we know that wealth from petroleum is a double-edged sword" said the Head of State. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11446.aspx Tue, 08 Sep 2009 10:18:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11446.aspx Regional president of Áncash, César Álvarez Aguilar, confirmed that the Brazilian government is interested in investing US$500 million in the construction of the Interoceanic Highway which will link the regions of Áncash, Huánuco and Ucayali. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11445.aspx Mon, 07 Sep 2009 11:15:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11445.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11444.aspx Fri, 04 Sep 2009 14:24:09 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11444.aspx Considered by many to be a significant step towards protecting the Amazon forest, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva recently vetoed parts of one of the most important and controversial environmental bills in years. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11443.aspx Fri, 04 Sep 2009 13:35:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11443.aspx The loan will finance an environmental sustainability reform program in the country. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11442.aspx Fri, 04 Sep 2009 12:53:18 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11442.aspx Peruvian Environmental Minister Antonio Brack recommended cancelling the construction of two hydroelectric plants in Paquitzapango and Inambari. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11440.aspx Fri, 04 Sep 2009 12:16:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11440.aspx Evandro Roberto Miguel, president of the Inambari Project directive, Empresa de Generación Eléctrica Amazonas Sur of Brazil quoted at a recent event in Puno, discussing the pros and cons of the Inambari Hydroelectric Dam. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11439.aspx Fri, 04 Sep 2009 12:04:21 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11439.aspx We continue our dicussion on energy; this time with a few lines about Inambari and the energy deal with Brazil. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11437.aspx Fri, 04 Sep 2009 11:56:12 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11437.aspx Brazil's national development bank BNDES will need to be recapitalized in order to be able to keep up other investments and lending activities, after it joins in on new pre-salt oil production and the capital increase for federal energy company Petrobras. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11436.aspx Fri, 04 Sep 2009 10:29:30 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11436.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11435.aspx Fri, 04 Sep 2009 09:30:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11435.aspx Congress will put to a second vote the law which would create electoral sub districts in Lima on Thursday. The law is intended to give parliamentary representation to Lima provinces. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11433.aspx Thu, 03 Sep 2009 13:27:42 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11433.aspx Affected inhabitants of localities where the dam is to be built must be well-informed of the advantages and disadvantages of the project in order to avoid social conflict such as the one in the northern province of Bagua. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11432.aspx Thu, 03 Sep 2009 13:14:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11432.aspx In secret conversations between Nixon and Garrastazú a old Brazilian imperialist plan surfaces that directly affects us and remains one of Brazil's geopolitical projects. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11430.aspx Thu, 03 Sep 2009 12:37:11 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11430.aspx Regional presidents of Tacna and La Paz met today in Bolivia to coordinate and promote the construction of a bi-national highway which would facilitate trade between the two countries. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11428.aspx Thu, 03 Sep 2009 10:01:47 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11428.aspx The Public Defense Counselor of the Puno region has demanded new information on the controversial construction of a hydroelectric dam in Inambari. She stated yesterday that when all information regarding the consequences of the infrastructure project is made available, she will state her position on the matter. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11427.aspx Thu, 03 Sep 2009 09:15:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11427.aspx On Monday morning, from 5 to 9, representatives of the Union of Construction Workers of the State of Rondônia (Sticcero) blocked the gate of the construction site of the Santo Antônio plant, causing more than three miles of line on the access road in order to promote deliberative assembly with indications of a general strike. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11426.aspx Tue, 01 Sep 2009 10:19:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11426.aspx Regional Education Director issues a strong warning http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11425.aspx Mon, 31 Aug 2009 11:04:21 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11425.aspx Argentine and Chilean authorities have created a bi-national permanent committee to promote the construction of the Trasandino Central rail tunnel initiative to transport cargo between the two countries, the Chilean government reported in a release. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11424.aspx Mon, 31 Aug 2009 10:39:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11424.aspx Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva over the weekend signed an agreement with his Bolivian counterpart Evo Morales to embark on a bilateral project to construct a freeway between Bolivia's Villa Tunari and San Ignacio de Moxos cities as part of a plan to create a corridor between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11423.aspx Mon, 31 Aug 2009 10:21:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11423.aspx The visit will take place the 7, 8 and 9th of September, announces Puno's environmental attorney. A joint inspection with environmental authorities from Madre de Dios and Cusco will be held later. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11422.aspx Mon, 31 Aug 2009 10:00:55 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11422.aspx Waste, particularly manure, can also generate income for farmers, FAO study shows. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11421.aspx Mon, 31 Aug 2009 09:47:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11421.aspx Brazil will provide financing worth $300 million to the Bolivian government for construction of a highway critical for regional trade, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said Monday. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11419.aspx Fri, 28 Aug 2009 14:07:51 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11419.aspx Ministers from Chile and Ecuador will meet September 7th in Quito to dicuss topics to be determined in the next two days in Santiago, officials informed Efe today. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11418.aspx Fri, 28 Aug 2009 13:32:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11418.aspx The Inambari Hydroelectric Project, with a reservoir projected at 46,000 ha of tropical forest, would be an important source of greenhouse gas emissions to the extent that total emissions for Peru could increase by 5.8% http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11416.aspx Thu, 27 Aug 2009 17:04:34 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11416.aspx Peru's fluvial ports Yurimaguas and Iquitos in Loreto region and Pucallpa in Ucayali form part of the anti-crisis package announced by President Alan García last December, designed to attract investments of over US$92mn. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11414.aspx Thu, 27 Aug 2009 10:35:53 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11414.aspx The prefect of Santa Cruz and ambassador from the European Union unveil 14 bridges and a viaduct in the fourth section of the Santa Cruz-Arroyo Concepción bi-oceanic corridor. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11412.aspx Fri, 21 Aug 2009 16:10:54 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11412.aspx Jirau and Santo Antonio promise to cost much more than the stated financial value of their construction: deforestation, disease, damage to fish population just to name a few. These and other costs, however, will not be paid only by Brazilians; Bolivians are also facing some of the costs of this venture. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11411.aspx Fri, 21 Aug 2009 15:39:23 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11411.aspx After watching a report by Foro TV about the ecological damage that would be caused by the construction of the Inambari dam to the areas around Puno, citizens expressed their concern and demanded that local officials assume a responsible position to confront this threat. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11407.aspx Fri, 21 Aug 2009 10:22:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11407.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11406.aspx Fri, 21 Aug 2009 10:11:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11406.aspx Brazil is building hydroelectric dams in the Amazon that some technicians and economists applaud while several environmentalists regret. It is worth the risk and investment? http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11405.aspx Thu, 20 Aug 2009 14:22:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11405.aspx An examination of how the hydroelectric plants of Jirau and Santo Antônio will impact the environment and the lives of Amazonian communities. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11404.aspx Thu, 20 Aug 2009 14:11:23 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11404.aspx The Union of South American Nations (Unasur) will create a division to coordinate the South American infrastructure integration initiative IIRSA. A document regarding the structure of the division is expected to be signed at the next Unasur meeting to be held in Ecuadorian capital Quito on September 7. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11403.aspx Thu, 20 Aug 2009 10:31:42 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11403.aspx In Latin America and elsewhere, the IMF may be re–emerging—but in a changed landscape. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11401.aspx Mon, 17 Aug 2009 11:28:40 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11401.aspx Peruvian government will negotiate directly with the companies. Specialists said they should also review the export tariffs. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11400.aspx Mon, 17 Aug 2009 10:45:35 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11400.aspx The agreement, signed in Asunción, finally resolved a decade long disagreement between the two governments regarding the Itaipú dam. The revisions in the Itaipú treaty had far reaching implications for the national standing of Paraguay’s President Fernando Lugo and Brazil’s President Luíz Inacio Lula da Silva as well for Brazil’s leadership role in Latin America. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11399.aspx Thu, 13 Aug 2009 22:11:59 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11399.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11398.aspx Thu, 13 Aug 2009 22:06:45 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11398.aspx Peru hopes the hydroelectric project will push the Amazon region into the 21st century, despite strong misgivings of conservationists and environmentalist groups. In that sense Peru's aspirations are similar to the hopes of Paraguay, which is already sharing an electricity generation project with Brazil. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11397.aspx Thu, 13 Aug 2009 21:51:58 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11397.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11396.aspx Thu, 13 Aug 2009 21:42:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11396.aspx In the midst of a possible energy crisis en Peru over the coming years, increasing criticism of exports of as much as half of the Camisea gas reserves requires greater attention http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11395.aspx Thu, 13 Aug 2009 21:30:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11395.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11394.aspx Thu, 13 Aug 2009 21:02:30 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11394.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11393.aspx Thu, 13 Aug 2009 20:45:27 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11393.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11392.aspx Thu, 13 Aug 2009 19:01:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11392.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11391.aspx Thu, 13 Aug 2009 18:55:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11391.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11390.aspx Thu, 13 Aug 2009 18:47:18 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11390.aspx Critics have pointed out that the agreement to increase Paraguay's share of electricity revenues will be conditioned on protections for Brazilians living in Paraguay and contract guarantees for BNDES among other concessions. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11389.aspx Thu, 13 Aug 2009 18:32:58 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11389.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11388.aspx Thu, 13 Aug 2009 18:17:45 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11388.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11385.aspx Sun, 09 Aug 2009 10:57:21 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11385.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11384.aspx Sun, 09 Aug 2009 10:41:31 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11384.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11383.aspx Sun, 09 Aug 2009 10:32:35 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11383.aspx Puerto Maldonaldo, Madre de Dios, in heart of the Peruvian jungle, is the home to some of the worst offenses of sexual trafficking of minors. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11382.aspx Sun, 09 Aug 2009 10:27:21 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11382.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11381.aspx Sun, 09 Aug 2009 10:19:20 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11381.aspx Peru's environment minister now says the government will pay indigenous communities 10 sols ($3.30) for every hectare of rainforest they help to preserve, reports the Latin American Herald. Previously Antonio Brack said that communities would see about half that amount. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11380.aspx Fri, 07 Aug 2009 15:47:38 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11380.aspx The project of constructing the Inambari mega-hydroelectric dam is generating discontent in the various affected communities in the province of Carabaya, who demand respect for the lands dedicated to agriculture. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11379.aspx Fri, 07 Aug 2009 11:25:19 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11379.aspx Peru's local governments have 15bn soles (US$5.07bn) available for the development of infrastructure initiatives, according to Lima's chamber of commerce (CCL). The resources come from canons and royalties, among other sources. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11377.aspx Wed, 05 Aug 2009 11:39:07 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11377.aspx In order to make more profitable and viable project, the government decided to shorten the length of the highway concession to be granted and thus provide greater guarantees to investors. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11376.aspx Tue, 04 Aug 2009 17:31:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11376.aspx The Ministry of Transport and Communications (MTC) announced today that it will reduce the stretch of road concession project for Integration of Regional Infrastructure in South America (IIRSA) Center with the purpose of make it more profitable for investors. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11374.aspx Mon, 03 Aug 2009 17:13:27 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11374.aspx The first indigenous woman elected leader and educator of the people Sagarana in Rondônia, Eva Canoe, said the construction of hydroelectric dams in the Madeira river, in Rondônia, will affect at least four indigenous peoples that still live in voluntary isolation in the region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11369.aspx Wed, 29 Jul 2009 12:18:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11369.aspx The government is currently preparing the new project portfolio that will be offered to domestic and foreign investors; and it will prioritize investments in sectors such as energy, transport, sanitation, housing, rail, waterways and urban logistics. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11368.aspx Wed, 29 Jul 2009 10:32:53 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11368.aspx On August 12, an Ecuadorian's government delegation will go to Singapore on an official visit with the intention to promote the Manta Manaus Corridor. The cornerstone projects in the portfolio are the Manta port, an airport and the Manta-Manaus route through the Napo river. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11367.aspx Tue, 28 Jul 2009 14:38:27 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11367.aspx One way to stem this rising tide, said ministers, would be for Latin American countries to "increase public infrastructure integration to reduce transport and energy costs in order to make their economies more competitive." http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11366.aspx Tue, 28 Jul 2009 12:26:35 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11366.aspx While the hydroelectric plants of Jirau and Santo Antonio in the Madeira river begin their construction, Bolivian organizations and institutes following the projects say that the negative impacts generated by the two dams will be felt not only in Brazilian territory, but also in Bolivia. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11365.aspx Tue, 28 Jul 2009 12:09:42 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11365.aspx Environmental organizations have mobilized against licensing of Santo Antônio and Jirau hydroelectric dams http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11364.aspx Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:43:07 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11364.aspx For decades Paraguayans have protested the raw deal they got when their dictatorship-era government decided to build the world’s largest hydroelectric power plant with Brazil along their shared border. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11363.aspx Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:19:52 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11363.aspx The government of Ecuador has come to an agreement with Hong-Kong based Hutchison Port Holdings (HPH) to resume the administration of Manta port in Manabí province, local press reported. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11362.aspx Tue, 28 Jul 2009 09:24:24 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11362.aspx Authorities will transfer the concession to a new company which will mean calling a new international tender, the presidential website reported. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11359.aspx Fri, 24 Jul 2009 10:17:04 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11359.aspx Conservationist David Singh warns that the Lethem road, part of the IIRSA project, will destroy about 2 million hectares of forest unless revised and strengthened REDD framework are in place. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11358.aspx Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:00:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11358.aspx Native group launches civil disobedience campaign against Correa’s policies. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11357.aspx Thu, 23 Jul 2009 14:32:15 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11357.aspx Bolivian government announced the creation of a 100 million dollars fund for four state businesses in the Amazon. for a lumber company, tropical frutes, and rubber. The government's hope is that, with these new businesses the people in the north of Bolivia will have more opportunities to work and earn higher wages. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11352.aspx Thu, 23 Jul 2009 09:23:46 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11352.aspx "Under the current" (“Bajo el caudal…”) is a report by Fobomade that details the possible impacts of the construction of two hydroelectric dams over the Madeira river on the Bolivian northern border with Brazil. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11351.aspx Wed, 22 Jul 2009 22:22:54 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11351.aspx Indigenous peoples organizations emphasize that the government did not consult with them on various oil explorations. Because they were not consulted, there is no established forum for their complaints. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11350.aspx Wed, 22 Jul 2009 22:18:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11350.aspx Groups in Bolivia's Pando department, whose land rights have been historically compromised, look to the resettlement plan as a way to firmly establish their rights under the new constitution. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11349.aspx Wed, 22 Jul 2009 21:58:55 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11349.aspx The general manager of Jindal in Bolivia, Jaime Santa Cruz, claimed that the company has not yet received land and settled in Puerto Suarez so it can begin the exploitation of iron in the Mutún. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11348.aspx Wed, 22 Jul 2009 12:11:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11348.aspx Groups claim that, because of the construction taking place for the Rio Madera Complex, the area's inhabitants are being forced unwillingly from their homes. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11347.aspx Tue, 21 Jul 2009 12:24:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11347.aspx The Linden to Lethem road will have one of the biggest impacts on the forest and figures show that about two million hectares of forest will be lost through the project unless there is a framework to pay for and provide alternative development to what would traditionally occur along such a road. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11346.aspx Tue, 21 Jul 2009 11:08:42 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11346.aspx Minister of Land, Alejandro Almaraz, announced yesterday that according to a preliminary estimate the Government’s resettlement plan for 2,000 families in the department of Pando could require approximately US$21 million. Under the plan developed by the Government, there are 600,000 hectares of land to distribute this year in three regions of the country. 200,000 hectares of those are in the department of Pando. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11345.aspx Tue, 21 Jul 2009 10:26:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11345.aspx Since moving to Washington in January, Geithner has been secretly crashing at his old friend Daniel Zelikow's posh manse in the District's tony Kalorama neighborhood. Zelikow, a former Wall Street hotshot who now serves as executive vice president of the Inter-American Development Bank, is a college buddy of Geithner's. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11343.aspx Tue, 21 Jul 2009 06:45:18 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11343.aspx Within the current context of a global capital increase proposal by the Inter-American Development Bank that would permit the Bank to triple its current annual lending volume, 20 civil society organizations from 10 countries demanded that the IDB not renew its mandate to participate in the Technical Coordination Committee (CCT) of IIRSA based on the inconsistency of IIRSA practices with Bank safeguard and operating policies. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11342.aspx Mon, 20 Jul 2009 14:45:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11342.aspx After months of internal planning and vibrant debate over how to best position the Bank to garner an unprecedented capital increase, IDB President Luis Alberto Moreno acknowledged the receipt of a ten page civil society proposal of needed reforms, but failed to respond in any detail to any of the substantive arguments. Instead, the President delegated External Relations to outline a delayed and ambiguous consultation process that the Bank Board is expected to endorse in the coming weeks http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11341.aspx Mon, 20 Jul 2009 13:27:52 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11341.aspx The contract permits the export of gas at a price that is lower than the gas directed to the local market. The Government has initiated a new request to renegotiate the contracts and also seeking to limit the gas from Lot 88 for domestic use only. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11340.aspx Mon, 20 Jul 2009 11:17:09 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11340.aspx Brazilian investors are interested in the western zones of Colombia where they envision new ethanol and biofuel projects. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11339.aspx Mon, 20 Jul 2009 10:58:36 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11339.aspx The Society formed by GTLI y Yacimientos Petrolíferos Fiscales awaiting an environmental license and Petroandina has entered the phase of seismic studies. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11338.aspx Mon, 20 Jul 2009 10:50:47 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11338.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11337.aspx Mon, 20 Jul 2009 10:43:43 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11337.aspx The new rail development plan consists of rail connections between the east and west, and a rail corridor from the border with Brazil. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11336.aspx Mon, 20 Jul 2009 09:32:55 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11336.aspx Negotiations between Ecuador and Chinese Consortium focus on cost http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11335.aspx Mon, 20 Jul 2009 09:16:24 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11335.aspx Specialist warns of more deforestation from increased migration http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11334.aspx Mon, 20 Jul 2009 08:30:45 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11334.aspx The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) sidesteps civil society concerns raised regarding a proposal advanced by the IDB in Santiago, Chile on July 2 to increase its capital base by $100-$200 billion, which would triple Bank annual lending from an average of $US 6 billion since the last replenishment to a projected $16-19 billion per year. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11344.aspx Tue, 21 Jul 2009 09:09:11 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11344.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11331.aspx Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:59:53 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11331.aspx A little known fact is that the majority owners of Lot 88 and Lot 56, which produce gas from Camisea, as well as the hydrocarbon liquids, are the same majority owners of the Peru LNG consortium, which is the entity that buys the Camisea gas and exports it. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11330.aspx Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:38:52 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11330.aspx In order to help mitigate the effects of the economic crisis, Peru has created an "Anticrisis Plan" which in part will serve to finance big infrastructure proyects. These projects, given their scale and the government's poor management of such projects are bound to create problems. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11329.aspx Thu, 16 Jul 2009 16:06:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11329.aspx BICECA program's manager, Vince McElhinny talks about the need for more reforms at the Inter-American Development Bank before a capital increase. BICECA and their partners submitted a serious of recommendations to the bank ahead of the governor's meeting in early July. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11328.aspx Thu, 16 Jul 2009 14:05:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11328.aspx BICECA Bulletin 2009 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11327.aspx Thu, 16 Jul 2009 09:35:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11327.aspx The represenatives of the Interamerican Development Bank (BID) and World Bank (WB) in Washington for Honduras rejected the suggestion that IFI funds assigned to Honduras had been "unfrozen." The pause in IFI funding announced on June 28 will be sustained. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11326.aspx Thu, 16 Jul 2009 09:06:55 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11326.aspx After the wave of violence that erupted in early June, several indigenous leaders have had to seek asylum. Two more, Saul Pena and Cervando Pena are the latest. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11325.aspx Wed, 15 Jul 2009 16:50:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11325.aspx Ibama, the national environment authority in Brazil rejected DNIT's (the national transport infrastructure department) call for an environmental impact study of a 875km highway that became impassable in the 1980s. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11323.aspx Wed, 15 Jul 2009 07:50:30 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11323.aspx Colombian government plans to carry out a study which looks at the navegability of Rio Meta. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11321.aspx Sat, 11 Jul 2009 07:36:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11321.aspx President Garcia of Peru published a second editorial letter to the Peruvian people which discredits the clamorings of the indigenous groups whom he believes are impeding development in the country. Garcia's defense of the moral right of the "immense majority" of Peruvian that he believes are supportive of his Amazon development policy leaves little space for authentic, democratic negotiation with indigenous peoples and other opponents of development policies that are viewed as unaccountable and subsidizing unsustainable investment. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11320.aspx Sat, 11 Jul 2009 06:39:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11320.aspx The Ashaninka communities of the Ene Valley, in the districts of Rio Tambo and Pango, Province of Satipo, Junin, Peru, gathered together to celebrate the XIII ordinary Congress of their representative organisation, Central Ashaninka del Rio Ene (CARE), in the community of Pichiquia on the 24th-26th of April 2009 in order to debate the threat of the current project for the construction of the Pakitzapango hydroelectric dam. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11317.aspx Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:18:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11317.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11316.aspx Fri, 10 Jul 2009 13:47:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11316.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11314.aspx Fri, 10 Jul 2009 13:14:02 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11314.aspx Hydroelectric dams, Biofuels, Hydrocarbons top the list. A business delegation is programmed for the second semester of 2009 to explore biofuel investment opportunities. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11313.aspx Fri, 10 Jul 2009 13:02:33 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11313.aspx Cost overruns could push the total for the highway to over $2 billion http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11312.aspx Fri, 10 Jul 2009 12:49:46 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11312.aspx The increase in infrastructure investment does not represent a substantial impact in terms of poverty reduction among the affected populations of the Camisea Natural Gas Extraction Project in Cusco, Peru. This was one of the primary conclusions of a study conducted by Propuesta Ciudadana, with the support of Oxfam America, Bank Information Center and World Resources Institute. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11311.aspx Fri, 10 Jul 2009 09:49:21 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11311.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11310.aspx Thu, 09 Jul 2009 11:17:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11310.aspx Civil lawsuits have been filed against Brazil’s environment institute for ignoring environmental concerns when issuing licences to allow the construction of two dams on the Amazon’s Madeira River. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11309.aspx Thu, 09 Jul 2009 07:48:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11309.aspx An ambitious scheme to save pristine forest starts to take shape http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11307.aspx Tue, 07 Jul 2009 10:42:30 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11307.aspx In the midst of a blending of strategy, pragmatism and ideology, the enigmatic relationship between Brazil and Venezuela evolves through a series of complicated gambles. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11306.aspx Mon, 06 Jul 2009 13:05:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11306.aspx Brazilian firm has six months to sell its 9.99% share of the project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11305.aspx Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:54:45 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11305.aspx Affected communities of the proposed Inambari hydroelectric project from Puno argue that the project will bring more costs than benefits; the Andean Southern Natural Gas Pipeline is neither a guaranteed for the Southern Peruvian department. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11304.aspx Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:37:04 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11304.aspx Puno Congressional leader, Susana Vilca Achata, stated that the Inambari Hydroelectric Project will negatively affect that Southern Interoceanic Highway and native peoples, and therefore the private Brazilian contractor, Amazonas Sur, should reformulate the design of the project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11303.aspx Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:32:07 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11303.aspx QUILLABAMBA, Peru | A national strike by thousands of rain-forest Indians is spawning accusations of a proxy war involving Venezuela and an emboldened peasant movement seeking to undermine Peru's pro-U.S. president. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11302.aspx Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:24:46 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11302.aspx Bolivia, Brazil and Chile have announced that the inter-oceanic corridor, from the Atlantic to the Pacific will be finished by 2011. The announcement was made following an assessment of the different legs of the corridor during a meeting in La Paz, Bolivia between the Public Works ministers of the three countries. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11301.aspx Mon, 06 Jul 2009 11:57:26 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11301.aspx The bi-oceanic highway will run from Brazil's largest port, Santos, through Bolivian departments Santa Cruz, Cochabamba and Oruro, and on to northern Chile's Pacific coast cities of Arica and Iquique. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11299.aspx Mon, 06 Jul 2009 08:58:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11299.aspx Honduras' finance minister in exile maintains that the recent army-backed coup could cost the poverty-stricken Central American country $450 million in financing from international organizations this year. Without funding from multinational organizations and foreign countries, many of Honduras' social programs and public investments could be in jeopardy. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11298.aspx Sat, 04 Jul 2009 09:36:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11298.aspx The companies given the concessions for the Inambari hydroelectric dam have a history of violations currently under investigation. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11297.aspx Fri, 03 Jul 2009 14:37:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11297.aspx Authorities from the region of Ucayali in Peru and the State of Acre in Brazil set an agenda to initiate a trade agreement between both regions http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11296.aspx Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:01:58 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11296.aspx Rehabilitation works are stalled in Brazil due to delaying in the granting of environmental permits. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11295.aspx Fri, 03 Jul 2009 10:41:02 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11295.aspx Reflections about the conference on IIRSA http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11293.aspx Thu, 02 Jul 2009 08:58:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11293.aspx In the context of a 9th Global Capital Increase request, for which the IDB is designing a new institutional strategy anchored by sustainability, equity and development goals, IIRSA has not demostrated compatibility with these goals and should be abandoned by the Bank. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11292.aspx Thu, 02 Jul 2009 07:43:29 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11292.aspx An intensive short seminar in Lima, Peru (July 22nd, 23rd, 24th) to address the current situation of regional integration in Latin America, the impacts of the global crisis and the options for advancing sustainable development is being convened by CLAES (Centro Sostenibilidad Ambiental, Uruguay) and the Universidad Peruana C. Heredia http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11291.aspx Thu, 02 Jul 2009 06:38:51 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11291.aspx Indian Ore Concessionaire Jindal Steel has financed the $16 million rehabilitation of 100 km roadway between the Mutun iron ore mine and Puerto Busch http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11290.aspx Thu, 02 Jul 2009 06:08:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11290.aspx Numerous irregularities cited in environmental licensing process for the San Antonio & Jirau dams http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11286.aspx Wed, 01 Jul 2009 10:34:51 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11286.aspx As member countries assess the 9th replenishment proposal advanced by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) on July 2 in Santiago, Chile, eight civil society organizations submitted recommendations on leadership steps the IDB should take in several critical areas before qualifying for any capital increase. These recommendations focus on two core areas of the IDB’s comparative advantage as a development bank in Latin America, Sustainability and Management for Development Results. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11274.aspx Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11274.aspx With the approval of the readiness plans for Guyana and Panama, the World Bank moves its Forest Carbon Partnership Facility forward despite civil society protests. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11278.aspx Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:09:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11278.aspx After an abrupt about-face, an agency frets about its footprint http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11276.aspx Sun, 28 Jun 2009 07:39:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11276.aspx One of the key issues in Copenhagen climate change negotiations in December will be the creation of an international superstructure to provide incentives, and ultimately payments, to combat deforestation in tropical countries. As delegates from around the world gathered in Bonn last week to discuss the so-called "REDD issue" (e.g., reducing emissions from deforestation and degradation), violence erupted in the rainforests of Peru between indigenous groups and the government about plans to step up oil and gas exploration, mining, and logging in the Amazon. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11275.aspx Sat, 27 Jun 2009 09:21:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11275.aspx Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is due this week to make one of the most keenly awaited decisions about land ownership in the Amazon rainforest. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11272.aspx Thu, 25 Jun 2009 12:25:48 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11272.aspx The terms of reference for the Jirau dam, signed by several Brazilians, spells out the concession but with several worrisome red-flags given the history of the project and the environmental legislation of Brazil. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11267.aspx Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:47:07 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11267.aspx BNDES approves R$ 59.3 billion in loans for PAC projects. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11266.aspx Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:42:49 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11266.aspx Brazil can save its rain forest. The question is, does it want to? http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11265.aspx Mon, 22 Jun 2009 13:25:47 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11265.aspx The increasingly important topic of Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEAs) was recently discussed among civil society organizations in Bogota, Colombia. Participants in the event discussed the ways in which the SEAs can be most effective and how to overcome certain challenges in applying the SEAs to certain projects. Infrastructure and sustainable development topics are also covered in this SEA bulletin. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11262.aspx Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11262.aspx Government urged to drop criminal charges against indigenous leaders and allow independent investigation into violent incidents in Bagua, Peru http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11264.aspx Fri, 19 Jun 2009 11:21:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11264.aspx In a complete "about-face", the Peruvian government has asked Congress to repeal legislative decrees 1090 and 1064 which fueled the violence in the city of Bagua, Peru. Thirty-four people died as a result of this violence. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11260.aspx Wed, 17 Jun 2009 17:01:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11260.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11259.aspx Wed, 17 Jun 2009 14:22:34 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11259.aspx Just two weeks after the publication of Greenpeace's report "Slaughtering the Amazon" the IFC halts a $30 million payment to the Bertin corporation which was using the IFC loan to expand further into the Amazon. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11258.aspx Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:10:29 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11258.aspx Negotiations are underway for the construction of six hydroelectric power plants in the Peruvian Amazon Region in a joint initiative of Alan Garcia and Lula da Silva. Serious inquires about the nature of the intiative and its implications for the region are not resolved which signals further problems. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11256.aspx Tue, 16 Jun 2009 10:45:40 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11256.aspx Fifteen organizations have asked Secretary Clinton and members of the US Congress to clarify the US position on the recent violence in Peru. The Garcia administration claims that the source of the tension - a series of legislative decrees - were issued in order to implement the US-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement (TPA). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11255.aspx Mon, 15 Jun 2009 14:18:30 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11255.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11252.aspx Thu, 11 Jun 2009 10:16:15 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11252.aspx Over the weekend violent clashes between police and peaceful indigeous protesters resulted in over 30 deaths and near one hundred wounded. The international community is urged to condemn the attacks and support dialogue between both sides. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11251.aspx Mon, 08 Jun 2009 10:04:30 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11251.aspx Four confirmed dead and 18 injured in a pre-dawn attack on peaceful demonstrators http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11249.aspx Fri, 05 Jun 2009 13:31:01 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11249.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11247.aspx Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11247.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11246.aspx Fri, 29 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11246.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11245.aspx Thu, 04 Jun 2009 17:10:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11245.aspx The country is thinking again about the project that has been discussed for several years. The goal is to link the Pacific and Atlantic. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11244.aspx Sat, 23 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11244.aspx During his Saturday radio broadcast, the president insisted that this is a historic project. Ecuador's approach regarding the Yasuni-ITT initiative is to help prevent the emition of 400 million metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11243.aspx Sat, 30 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11243.aspx A recent iniciative of from the Ministry of Environment in Peru will pay native groups $1.70/hectare to protect the Amazon. This project comes admist a slew of divisive confrontations between native groups and governments looking to promote development. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11242.aspx Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11242.aspx Communities of the Ene Valley in Peru got together to celebrate their representative Congress's 13th meeting and to discuss the currnet Pakitzapango hydroelectric dam. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11241.aspx Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11241.aspx Someone should contact Neil Young and tell him to stop making albums about electric cars and start writing songs about the Amazon. While I write this in jest, the boringness of someone pulling your ear about the devastation of deforestation should still be as important as talking about topics such as the duel between San Francisco and Portland for electric car supremacy. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11240.aspx Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11240.aspx The debate surrounding carbon markets and REDD is polarizing and multi-faceted, especially for the Amazonian populations. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11238.aspx Tue, 02 Jun 2009 14:46:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11238.aspx CAF and the IDB have begun a process to select firms to manage a capital fund for infrastructure projects in Peru. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11236.aspx Mon, 01 Jun 2009 15:20:17 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11236.aspx CAF and Internor, Peru's northen and western coordination board agree to development infrastructure projects. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11234.aspx Mon, 01 Jun 2009 15:17:10 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11234.aspx Along with Brazil, Venezuela promises to create a fund to make "billions of dollars" available for investment. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11232.aspx Mon, 01 Jun 2009 15:07:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11232.aspx ‘The Lethem road would only make economic sense if it was complemented by a deep water harbour’ http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11227.aspx Mon, 01 Jun 2009 09:23:08 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11227.aspx The indigenous people of the Guianas are largely ignorant of their governments’ intentions for the environment and of their inalienable rights. They want to know more about matters that affect their land and their livelihood. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11226.aspx Mon, 01 Jun 2009 08:34:46 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11226.aspx The bank, having already increased lending from $11.2bn in 2008 to as much as $18bn this year, is weighing both alternatives for further expanding lending in the short-term and an extensive capital increase. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11224.aspx Sat, 30 May 2009 13:49:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11224.aspx Brasilian Mega-dam EIA under review http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11223.aspx Fri, 29 May 2009 21:19:46 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11223.aspx Camisea not resolving Peru's domestic energy needs http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11222.aspx Fri, 29 May 2009 20:38:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11222.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11218.aspx Thu, 28 May 2009 18:13:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11218.aspx Crown jewel of the IIRSA project portfolio under scrutiny in Bolivia and Brazil http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11216.aspx Thu, 28 May 2009 10:41:23 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11216.aspx Crown Jewel of the IIRSA Project Portfolio Under Scrutiny in Bolivia and Brazil http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11215.aspx Wed, 27 May 2009 18:14:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11215.aspx Beneath the tropical jungles of northeastern Ecuador lies a vast pool of oil, representing one-fifth of the small Andean country's petroleum reserves and potentially billions of dollars in revenue. Directly above that pool, the Yasuni National Park is home to a diversity of wildlife that is among the richest on the planet, Ecuadoran and U.S. biologists say. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11214.aspx Wed, 27 May 2009 17:49:17 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11214.aspx The new plant should start operating in 2012. It should have a capacity for generation of 720 megawatts (MW) of energy. The project also counts on financial investment by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), equivalent to 1 billion reais (US$ 490 million). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11209.aspx Mon, 25 May 2009 09:49:51 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11209.aspx The loan would support an overall US$1.08bn transport infrastructure development program, of which another US$630mn is to be covered by the state and US$150mn by IDB. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11208.aspx Mon, 25 May 2009 09:23:20 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11208.aspx The project consists of upgrading and expanding an 867km highway. The initial investment amount was estimated at US$88.4mn, but the new studies will have to confirm this. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11207.aspx Mon, 25 May 2009 09:15:45 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11207.aspx State-owned oil company Petroperu said Sunday protests organized by Indians in Peru’s Amazon region were causing fuel shortages in several jungle cities. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11206.aspx Mon, 25 May 2009 08:40:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11206.aspx Peru has historically had one of the lowest annual deforestation rates in the Amazon basin, but forest loss has been increasing in recent years due to illegal logging, mining, agriculture, and expansion of road networks, including the paving of a highway that provides access to a remote and biologically-rich region in southeastern part of the country. In 2005 — the most recent year for which data is available — at least 150,000 hectares of forest was lost, while a similar area was degraded through logging and other activitie http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11205.aspx Sun, 24 May 2009 08:30:30 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11205.aspx Comment period on draft EIA between May 30 and June 3 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11204.aspx Sat, 23 May 2009 07:47:36 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11204.aspx Peruvian Congress Approves Report Says No Irregularities in the Southern Inter-oceanic Highway, Opposition Legislators Question the Integrity of the Procedure, Doubts Remain; Brazilian delegation from Rondonia visits Puno; 130 km of highway in Madre de Dios inaugurated; Transport Sector calls for further investigation of construction problems. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11203.aspx Sat, 23 May 2009 07:33:58 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11203.aspx Amazon protests to revoke harmful Presidential Decrees in 45th day http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11202.aspx Sat, 23 May 2009 07:20:36 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11202.aspx Two day conference underscores the need for improvements in the quality of social, environmental and economic evaluation, as well as the search for energy alternatives. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11201.aspx Fri, 22 May 2009 13:45:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11201.aspx 12 Archeological Prehispanic sites have been identified in Section 4 of the Southern Interceanic Highway, between Azángaro to the Inambari bridge, on the border of Puno with Madre de Dios, informed Flavio Leite Mesquita, lead of CONIRSA Concesionaire. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11200.aspx Fri, 22 May 2009 11:49:43 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11200.aspx The native Amazonian peoples are showing themselves to be harder and more battle ready in their demands summarized in the Ishpingo platform, which include the derogation of various legislative decrees promulgated by Peruvian President, Alan Garcia, that threaten indigenous rights in the extraction of natural resources. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11199.aspx Fri, 22 May 2009 11:39:26 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11199.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11196.aspx Fri, 22 May 2009 11:01:46 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11196.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11195.aspx Fri, 22 May 2009 10:51:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11195.aspx President Alan Garcia, Dr. Ernesto Cornejo and the Odebrecht led concessionaire CONIRSA inaugurated on May 14, 130 km of Section 3 of the Southern Interoceanic Highway between Tampopata and Iberia. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11194.aspx Fri, 22 May 2009 09:30:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11194.aspx These photos were taken of various aspects of the indigenous protests in Peru. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11193.aspx Thu, 21 May 2009 11:08:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11193.aspx Unexplained revisions by the Consortium building the Jirau hydroelectric dam (part of the Rio Madeira complex) to the design of the initial project that was auctioned one year ago are expected to increase the overall project costs by 60% http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11191.aspx Thu, 21 May 2009 09:05:17 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11191.aspx Consultant Tecsult-Aecom along with ENDE, Bolivia's National Electricity Company, are in the final phases of the feasibility and design process for the proposed hydroelectric project, Cachuela Esperanza, which is expected to conclude in October, 2009 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11190.aspx Thu, 21 May 2009 07:26:30 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11190.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11189.aspx Thu, 21 May 2009 06:31:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11189.aspx While one legislative decree has been repealed by the Constitution Commission in Peru's Congress, indigenous groups continue their protests demanding that the other nine decrees also be repealed. AIDESEP leader, Alberto Pizango, who was recently charged with sedition and disturbing the peace, approves of the small step forward. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11185.aspx Wed, 20 May 2009 11:05:51 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11185.aspx Lula and Garcia advance plans to expand hydroelectric integration. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11184.aspx Wed, 20 May 2009 10:14:28 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11184.aspx The situation in Peru has intensified between the government and indigenous groups because of the legislative decrees which allow for contracts to international and transnationals companies who plan to extract resources from indigenous land. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11183.aspx Tue, 19 May 2009 12:05:47 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11183.aspx The World Bank warned earlier this year that many of the Andes' tropical glaciers will disappear within 20 years. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11182.aspx Tue, 19 May 2009 11:48:53 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11182.aspx Tensions have escalated recently over three legislative decrees issued by Peru's President, Alan Garcia this past weekend. The decrees make it even easier for companies to acquire concessions for the removal of resources from indigenous land. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11181.aspx Mon, 18 May 2009 16:19:01 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11181.aspx An annoucement about a new online observatory to share information and ideas about the impacts of Brazilian companies in Latin America, especially focusing on their impact on sustainable development efforts. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11180.aspx Mon, 18 May 2009 15:15:10 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11180.aspx Amazon Indians who have been blocking roads, waterways and a state oil pipeline since April are declaring an "insurgency" against Peru's government for refusing to repeal laws that the protesters say make it easier for foreign companies to take their lands, a national Indian representative said Friday. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11178.aspx Sat, 16 May 2009 09:25:23 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11178.aspx Experts at the World Bank see an opportunity in the face of crisis to invest in infrastructure projects in Latin America. According to the Bank, the deficit in infrastructure is quite noticeable in Bolivia, even below the average for the Latin America region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11177.aspx Thu, 14 May 2009 11:42:17 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11177.aspx The Brazilian construction firm, Odebrecht, rejects Ecuador's US $250 million lawsuit which claims that the Brazilian company constructed a hydroelectric plant with serious defects. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11176.aspx Thu, 14 May 2009 11:10:18 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11176.aspx In a meeting in Jamaica, the President of the IDB, Luis Alberto Moreno, reaffirmed the bank's commitment to the region and confirmed that the bank would increase its support of the Trade Finance Facilitation Program to one billion dollars. He also reiterated the need to support the region during the financial crisis. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11175.aspx Thu, 14 May 2009 10:47:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11175.aspx The recent April meeting among indigenous leaders of the Guiana Shield revealed their concerns about the IIRSA project and the lack of clarity around REDD and climate change. The indigenous leaders and their political counterparts agreed that there would be more participation and joint decision-making processes in the future about topics affecting the indigenous groups' land. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11174.aspx Wed, 13 May 2009 15:22:08 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11174.aspx The recent April meeting among indigenous leaders of the Guiana Shield revealed their concerns about the IIRSA project and the lack of clarity around REDD and climate change. The indigenous leaders and their political counterparts agreed that there would be more participation and joint decision-making processes in the future about topics affecting the indigenous groups' land. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11173.aspx Wed, 13 May 2009 14:46:36 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11173.aspx The recent April meeting among indigenous leaders of the Guiana Shield revealed their concerns about the IIRSA project and the lack of clarity around REDD and climate change. The indigenous leaders and their political counterparts agreed that there would be more participation and joint decision-making processes in the future about topics affecting the indigenous groups' land. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11172.aspx Wed, 13 May 2009 14:37:52 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11172.aspx Peruvian indigenous organizations, CAOI, CONACAMI, AIDESEP, CCP, CNA, ANEMEBI, MCP, announced a hunger strike in protest of the reforms that are not included in Congress's agenda, specifically the legislative decrees about implementing the Free Trade Agreement with the US. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11171.aspx Wed, 13 May 2009 12:31:15 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11171.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11169.aspx Mon, 11 May 2009 10:52:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11169.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11168.aspx Mon, 11 May 2009 10:48:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11168.aspx Despite widespread cross-border problems, South America has more than its fair share of major bilateral hydro schemes. Itaipu remains one of the region’s largest hydro ventures, but what other schemes are on the cards? http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11164.aspx Sun, 10 May 2009 10:59:36 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11164.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11144.aspx Fri, 08 May 2009 13:46:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11144.aspx Peru is rushing to hold superficial public meetings to inform the public about plans to build the fifth largest hydroelectric dam in Latin America. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11141.aspx Thu, 07 May 2009 15:42:08 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11141.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11140.aspx Wed, 06 May 2009 12:59:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11140.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11136.aspx Sun, 03 May 2009 10:57:54 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11136.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11135.aspx Sun, 03 May 2009 10:09:59 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11135.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11134.aspx Sun, 03 May 2009 09:48:36 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11134.aspx The feasibility study for Peru's largest hydroelectric dam nears completion and public hearings will begin in 2009. Brazilian financing for the dam will likely result the first in a series of jointly funded hydroelectric projects in Peru that provide energy to Brazil http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11133.aspx Sat, 02 May 2009 09:06:38 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11133.aspx Leading international institutions are working together to increase their collective impact and protect the economic and social gains achieved in the Caribbean over the last five years. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11132.aspx Fri, 01 May 2009 15:15:38 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11132.aspx At the recent Guiana Shield meeting, the Commissioner of Forest, Mr. James Singh, assured indigenous leaders that their communities will be consulted and included in the decision processes for the REDD project (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11130.aspx Fri, 01 May 2009 12:03:08 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11130.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11129.aspx Fri, 01 May 2009 11:46:24 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11129.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11128.aspx Fri, 01 May 2009 10:59:34 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11128.aspx The president of BNDES, Luciano Coutinho, said that it is possible that the bank will offer financial support for the construction of six hydroelectric projects in Peru. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11127.aspx Fri, 01 May 2009 10:05:33 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11127.aspx Groups representing indigenous people of Guyana and the Amazon fear that climate change is superseding the guarantee of actions towards ensuring the rights of the indigenous people. Trevor Stevenson, Executive Director of the Amazon Alliance, is one of those who supports this view. He was in Guyana last week for the meeting of indigenous leaders of Guyana, Suriname and French Guyana. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11125.aspx Thu, 30 Apr 2009 12:29:48 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11125.aspx After a meeting between the two leaders, Lula and Garcia agreed to the construction of six hydroelectric projects which symbolizes stronger relations between the two countries. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11122.aspx Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:54:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11122.aspx In a time when the financial market is lacking credit, the fund for investment in infrastructure which derives its resources from the FGTS (FI-FGTS) will contribute R$ 1,640 billion in financing to the construction of the San Antonio hydroelectric plant in the Madeira river, and become a shareholder of the consortium. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11119.aspx Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:35:54 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11119.aspx Santander sold half of its shares in the consortium building the San Antonio Hydroelectric Plant in the Madeira River to the FI-FGTS (Investment Fund FGTS) http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11118.aspx Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:05:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11118.aspx Read this special Spring Meetings edition of the Bretton Woods Update, a co-production of the Bretton Woods Project, with Afrodad, the Bank Information Center, Choike and Eurodad http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11115.aspx Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:00:27 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11115.aspx The IDB looks to recapitalize their resources according to the recommendations in the report written by Pedro Pablo Kuczynski, former Finance minister of Peru. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11112.aspx Sat, 18 Apr 2009 11:18:34 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11112.aspx The energy interconnection agreement will be signed between Electro Peru and Eletrobrás, which will be responsible for the technical assistance on the construction of hydroelectric and teh operations of the electrical systems. The initial project has six hydroelectric plants in Peruvian territory; however, the main custumer will be the Brazilian market, according Belaúnde. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11111.aspx Sat, 18 Apr 2009 11:12:52 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11111.aspx The Growth Acceleration Program (PAC) became the main target of criticism in a report of the organization of the World Economic Forum and the Fundação Dom Cabral, based in Belo Horizonte. "The PAC will not speed up anything, is the rehabilitation program of growth," said the director of Fundação Dom Cabral Paulo Resende, a specialist in transport and logistics, responsible for examining the question infrastructure for Brazil in the report of the forum. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11110.aspx Sat, 18 Apr 2009 11:09:45 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11110.aspx The Ministry of Environment announced an agreement with the Brazilian Federation of Banks (Febraban) incorporating environmental criteria and guidelines for the release of credits to companies and ventures. While representing an improvement regarding to the enviromental impacts made by some investments, the coordinator of the Eco-Project Finance and the organization Friends of the Earth - Brazilian Amazon, Roland Widmer, warns that for the agreement to be effective, more it needs to be done. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11108.aspx Sat, 18 Apr 2009 11:00:38 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11108.aspx Indigineour from Amazon of Preu blocked river traffic from two major rivers in jungle protest against laws they consider prejudicial to the integrity of its territories. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11107.aspx Fri, 17 Apr 2009 15:35:59 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11107.aspx Civil society organizations have written a letter expressing their opposition to a measure that would allow the paving of roads through the Amazon. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11106.aspx Fri, 17 Apr 2009 10:02:40 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11106.aspx The World Bank plans to increase lending to Latin America to suplement decreasing levels of foreign direct investment in the region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11105.aspx Thu, 16 Apr 2009 17:14:51 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11105.aspx ProInversion, Peru's state agency for the promotion of private investment, will likely launch a tender to concession the IIRSA highway. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11104.aspx Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:59:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11104.aspx Scientists say 4°C rise would kill 85% of the Amazon rainforest. Even modest temperature rise would see 20-40% loss within 100 years http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11103.aspx Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:12:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11103.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11102.aspx Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:07:20 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11102.aspx On the one hand, Brazil made some improvements reducing the rate of deforestation. On the other hand, IIRSA prevents the country from achieving its national environmental goals while deforestation puts the survival of the entire planet at risk. Deforestation is the cause of 20% of the world's global warming - more than the effects of all automobiles. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11101.aspx Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:00:15 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11101.aspx The Machiguengas took over Petrobras' ships in the Bajo Urubamba river http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11099.aspx Wed, 15 Apr 2009 23:38:49 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11099.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11098.aspx Tue, 14 Apr 2009 17:20:15 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11098.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11097.aspx Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:29:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11097.aspx This update provides an analysis of the World Bank's Approach Paper entitled "Toward Greater Transparency: Rethinking the World Bank's Disclosure Policy", which was recently released. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11095.aspx Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11095.aspx Read highlights from the 2nd Participants Committee Meeting of the FCPF, at which BIC served as an NGO observer. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11092.aspx Mon, 06 Apr 2009 11:18:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11092.aspx BIC and FUNDAR (Mexico) are jointly organizing a workshop for the civil society of Mesoamerica in order to deepen their knowledge and plan for effecting change at the World Bank. The workshop will take place April 20th in Mexico City, the day before the World Bank's official consultation about their disclosure policy. Please read the document (in Spanish) linked below for information about participating in the workshop. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11091.aspx Fri, 03 Apr 2009 10:29:08 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11091.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11090.aspx Thu, 02 Apr 2009 07:13:51 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11090.aspx Brazil's environmental regulator Ibama has issued the last three preliminary licenses needed to start second-stage works on the 5.4bn-real (US$2.36bn) Transnordestina railroad initiative. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11089.aspx Thu, 02 Apr 2009 07:00:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11089.aspx Brazilian concessionaires will carry out additional works on the Interoceanica Sur highway, which may result in further delays in the construction of the project - already close to $400 million over budget. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11088.aspx Thu, 02 Apr 2009 06:51:07 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11088.aspx All the latest news from the IDB Annual Meetings taking place from March 27-31, 2009 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11083.aspx Mon, 23 Mar 2009 14:27:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11083.aspx The Inter-American Development Bank should not receive public funding unless it becomes fully accountable to member governments and the public. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11082.aspx Sun, 22 Mar 2009 09:59:11 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11082.aspx New study by BIC shows that IFIs have fallen far short of matching project design with discourse when it comes to promoting a culture of accountability through their own project loans. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11081.aspx Fri, 20 Mar 2009 13:19:20 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11081.aspx The Brazilian National Development Bank, BNDES, receives the third installment of a loan to provide credit for businesses to modernize and expand operations. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11080.aspx Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:38:35 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11080.aspx A new study shows that even modest temperature increases will shrink the Amazon substantially. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11079.aspx Fri, 20 Mar 2009 11:51:49 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11079.aspx Bolivians worry about potential flooding and health problems that will result from two dams which are part of the Rio Madeira project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11078.aspx Thu, 19 Mar 2009 16:06:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11078.aspx Both Bolivians and Brazilians do not agree with the privatization of the Rio Madeira. For different reasons but the same objective, the Bolivians and Brazilians join forces to oppose the privatization. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11077.aspx Thu, 19 Mar 2009 15:52:48 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11077.aspx Bolivians fear negative impacts from two dams (part of the Rio Madeira) in Bolivian territory. The Brazilian Minister, Celso Amorim assures the Bolivian government that the construction of the dams will not have these negative impacts. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11076.aspx Thu, 19 Mar 2009 15:34:09 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11076.aspx For only the last two years has the Bolivian government paid attention to the impacts of dams in indigenous territory. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11074.aspx Wed, 18 Mar 2009 15:17:33 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11074.aspx The leaders of hundreds of indigneous groups of Peru demanded that the government reject a proposal to give Petrobras (Brazilian) a large area in which to operate. The groups' leaders argue that Petrobras will bring contamination and the unnecessary exploitation of a protected area of the Amazon. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11073.aspx Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:41:40 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11073.aspx Members of the COICA indigneous group held a meeting in Quito, Ecuador in order to discuss the role of the indigenous communities as it relates to the Amazon. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11072.aspx Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:15:42 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11072.aspx The World Bank launched the review of its information disclosure policy on Friday, March 13th with the public release of an Approach Paper. BIC and partners argue the case for greater transparency in Bank procedures. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11071.aspx Tue, 17 Mar 2009 11:07:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11071.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11068.aspx Fri, 13 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11068.aspx From March 30 - April 8 several experts on IIRSA will conduct a distance class about the fundamentals of IIRSA in order to capacitate community leaders. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11067.aspx Fri, 13 Mar 2009 13:38:27 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11067.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11065.aspx Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11065.aspx Only a year ago many governments in Latin America expressed their desire to separate themselves from the World Bank and IMF loans. But, because of pressing financial needs, many Latin American governments have been forced to consider accepting funds from multilateral banks. In many ways this change has hindered the creation of the Bank of the South. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11064.aspx Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11064.aspx As the World Bank launches a review of its policy on access to information, the Global Transparency Initiative will track the review process and provide analytical support to civil society groups concerned with transparency standards at the Bank. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11062.aspx Fri, 13 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11062.aspx Several organizations and social networks have asked the World Bank to postpone a decision on a $1.3 billion project in Brazil. The groups argue that prior loans have not adequately addressed environmental concerns and that the pending project-loan has the potential to continue this trend. Moreover, the groups see attractive alternatives. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11059.aspx Thu, 05 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11059.aspx BICECA Boletín Mensual 2009 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11056.aspx Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:17:46 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11056.aspx BIC to serve as NGO observer at the next meeting of the Committee of Participants for the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF) that will take place on March 11-13 in Panama, Central America. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11055.aspx Fri, 27 Feb 2009 12:17:26 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11055.aspx In light of the current financial crisis and future needs in Latin America, the Inter-American Development Bank makes plans for capitalization. The proposed amount for the capitalization will be determined according to the recommendations of an IDB advisory group on the issue. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11054.aspx Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11054.aspx Brazil's national development bank BNDES has approved 7.2bn reais (US$3.1bn) in financing to build the 3.3GW Jirau hydro plant, the bank said in a statement. Jirau is one of two mega hydro projects on the Madeira river in Rondônia state that will be connected to the national grid. The loan will go to the ESBR consortium and includes support for the transmission system that will link the plant to the city of Porto Velho, according to the statement. The financing, which will cover 68.5% of the required investment, is one of the largest loans ever granted by the bank for a single project. In December 2008, BNDES authorized 6.1bn reais in funding for the 3.15GW Santo Antônio hydro project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11048.aspx Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:23:39 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11048.aspx Various participants at the forum raise their points of view regarding the integration of South America and the Manta-Manaus corridor as the entry point to the region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11043.aspx Tue, 17 Feb 2009 12:32:40 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11043.aspx The reported scale of the Inter-American Development Bank's investment portfolio losses of $1.9 billion — 10 to 100 times higher than the losses of the other development banks http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11042.aspx Thu, 12 Feb 2009 23:55:38 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11042.aspx The Amazon Basin Indigenous Peoples Organization (COICA) with our worldview, diversity of languages, history, cultures, spirituality, territory, economy, have existed since before recorded time. We have adopted different forms of organization and identity under the framework of the nation states which have established laws and regulations according to their own interests, not recognizing the ancestral rights of the first inhabitants of the amazon region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11034.aspx Tue, 10 Feb 2009 11:08:15 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11034.aspx Last year, the Government reported to an international court of debt of $ 242.9 million provided by the BNDES for the construction of the San Francisco hydroelectric. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11036.aspx Fri, 06 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11036.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11038.aspx Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:31:59 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11038.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11037.aspx Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11037.aspx The government reactivates the Central Corridor project to benefit the agricultural sector and commercial towns and cities that are on the road that will link the Manta-Manaus. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11035.aspx Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11035.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11030.aspx Wed, 04 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11030.aspx As world leaders focus on severe economic crisis in their homelands, an estimated 100,000 activists traveled from all over the world to attend the World Social Forum in Brazil. Led by Indigenous people from all across Latin America, over 1000 participants formed a human banner, using their bodies, to draw attention to the increasingly precarious situation of the Amazon rainforest. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11027.aspx Wed, 04 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11027.aspx For the 2009 World Social Forum (WSF), a group composed of various organizations is organizing a two day workshop for updates and strategy building to inform, discuss, plan and act in defense of the rights of affected populations and the environment. The organizations are working to prevent and/or mitigate any type of social and environmental negative impacts caused by the Initiative for the Integration of Regional Infrastructure in South America (IIRSA) and other harmful development strategies. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11019.aspx Tue, 03 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11019.aspx BICECA Monthly Bulletin 2009 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11020.aspx Wed, 21 Jan 2009 12:35:35 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11020.aspx While the international financial institutions report sharp lending increases due to the global financial crisis, concerns over lack of transparency and accountability remain. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11015.aspx Fri, 09 Jan 2009 10:54:55 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11015.aspx Ecuador's President Rafael Correa has threatened to revoke the Manta port concession if port operator Hutchison Port Holdings (HPH) does not keep to its investment schedule. "If they do not comply with the Manta port concession, they will simply have to leave the country," Correa said in an address to the nation. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11014.aspx Wed, 14 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11014.aspx The state of Rondonia, Brazil is subject to ongoing land conflicts between large land owners, small farmers and the state. The proposed hydroelectric dams on the Madeira River and the promise of jobs will only accelerate uncontrolled migration to the region. Weak governance results in frequent, violent confrontations over natural resource use. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11013.aspx Thu, 01 Jan 2009 07:32:51 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11013.aspx Government representatives from the Union of South American Nations (Unasur) plan to establish an infrastructure council in April 2009, Chilean President Michelle Bachelet told BNamericas. The council is expected to be created at the next Unasur meeting, scheduled for April 20 next year, when Bachelet will also leave her post as the organization's pro tempore president. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11012.aspx Wed, 31 Dec 2008 14:28:01 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11012.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11011.aspx Mon, 29 Dec 2008 15:19:31 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11011.aspx A new agreement between Brazil, the World Bank and the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies is intended to train Brazilian state governments on reforms to local regulatory and licensing frameworks to facilitate great foreign direct investment in infrastructure projects. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11009.aspx Mon, 29 Dec 2008 11:05:23 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11009.aspx A new book of articles edited by Ricardo Verdum of the Brazilian Instituto de Estudio Socioeconomicos (Inesc) explores the trends in financing for megaprojects in South America. The book highlights the shifting balance between IFIs such as the World Bank, the IDB and CAF toward new institutions such as BNDES, as well as the competition between IIRSA and UNASUR. The book emphasizes the urgency for greater transparency and accountability in information and decision making about large, high risk infrastructure in the region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11006.aspx Mon, 29 Dec 2008 08:50:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11006.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11005.aspx Sat, 27 Dec 2008 11:29:19 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11005.aspx IDB Loan Approval Set for early 2009: The $200 million road project in Putumayo, Colombia is an anchor project for the IIRSA Amazonas Corridor and will unlock commercial traffic between the ports of Tumaco and Belem, as well as between Bogota and Quito. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11004.aspx Fri, 26 Dec 2008 09:33:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11004.aspx The Madeira Energy S/A (Mesa) business consortium, responsible for the construction of the Santo Antônio 3,100 MW hydroelectric dam, the first of several mega-dams planned for the Madeira in the Brazilian state of Rondônia, was fined R$ 7,7 million ($US 3.3 million) by the Instituto Brasileiro do Meio Ambiente e dos Recursos Naturais Renováveis (Ibama) as a penalty for their responsibility in the ecological accidente that resulted in the death of 11 tons of fish. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11003.aspx Wed, 24 Dec 2008 14:49:27 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11003.aspx The Inter American Development Bank set aside more than $900,000 to conduct a feasibility study into the road linking Guyana with Brazil. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11002.aspx Wed, 24 Dec 2008 10:08:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11002.aspx The October meeting between the Brazilian and Bolivian bilerateral technical commission on the Madeira Hydroelectric Dam and related projects focused on new technical research related to the cross-border health effects of the project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11000.aspx Tue, 23 Dec 2008 07:37:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.11000.aspx The financial crisis and environmental risks have affected the willingness of banks to finance the mega-hydroelectric project which would cost R$21 billion. Santander and Banif are facing difficulties in attaining funds for San Antonio Dam; and Itau has already given up on Jirau and San Antonio. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10998.aspx Mon, 22 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10998.aspx The presidents of Huanuco, Ucayali and Ancash signed a letter of commitment on the issue of forming a single region together. The deciding referendum will take place in November 2009 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10997.aspx Mon, 22 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10997.aspx IDB replenishment of a popular subsidy for the preparation of high risk infrastructure projects in Latin America anticipates the increased funding of infrastructure to stimulate the economy. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10996.aspx Mon, 22 Dec 2008 09:01:43 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10996.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10995.aspx Mon, 04 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10995.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10994.aspx Mon, 22 Dec 2008 08:04:28 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10994.aspx IDB has approved a technical cooperation donation of US$400,000 to support a study to improve the infrastructure and operation of border crossings between Colombia and Ecuador, the entity reported in a release. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10993.aspx Mon, 22 Dec 2008 07:42:23 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10993.aspx It is important for the President of the Council of Ministers, Yehuda Simon, to meet with employers' associations and hear their suggestions, since the implementation of the "Anticrisis Plan" requires the participation of both the public and private sectors, said Guillermo Vega Alvear, president of Perucámaras, who participated in the morning meeting with the Premier. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10990.aspx Fri, 19 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10990.aspx Open letter regarding the South American Regional Infrastructure Integration Initiative (IIRSA), to the politicians in charge (South American governments) and its financiers (CAF, BNDES, European Union, Fonplata, Santander) http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10981.aspx Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10981.aspx Civil society organizations (CSOs) from 10 South American countries have invited the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to engage in dialogue about the use and misuse of Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEAs) in a two-day workshop to be held in Bogota, Colombia (Dec. 2 and 3, 2008). The workshop will feature presentations on the IDB's progress in developing a strategic decision making system that includes clearer rules for SEAs. CSOs will present lessons learned and recommendations for more effective use of SEAs drawn from a decade of experience with high risk infrastructure projects. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10958.aspx Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10958.aspx The President of the Directors of IIRSA and current Director of the Ministry of Planning of Colombia, Carolina Renteria, reported on Monday, November 10 the decision to reject a hearing on IIRSA requested by 20 civil society organizations from 8 countries. The CSOs submitted a proposal to create mechanisms to ensure the participation of civil society in the planning process of integration within the framework of IIRSA, in addition to other potential integration processes as well as for the implementation of Strategic Environmental Studies (SEA) for groups of IIRSA projects. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10936.aspx Fri, 21 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10936.aspx A newly released joint report between Bank Information Center (BIC) and Global Witness critically assesses the World Bank Group's and the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) success in increasing transparency in extractive industries in resource-rich countries. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3933.aspx Tue, 18 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3933.aspx BICECA Monthly Bulletin 2008 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10935.aspx Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:30:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.10935.aspx A coalition of 630 organizations representing 104 countries have published a declaration demanding an answer that is truly responsive to the world crisis and they spell out various avenues to achieve this. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3932.aspx Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:20:44 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3932.aspx In the wake of the global financial crisis, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is experiencing a resurgence as the world’s "financial crisis firefighter." The upcoming G20 financial summit has placed the IMF as the central institution in charge of “crisis management” and reform of the international financial architecture. While there is much talk of “overhauling” the IMF through fundamental reforms, the same leaders who say this are also talking about broadening the scope of the IMF’s power and influence. Undoubtedly empowered by the contagion of financial meltdown in middle-income countries, the IMF is now scurrying around the globe signing new multi-billion dollar loan deals with a spate of new countries, most notably the Eastern European “Baltic tiger” countries. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3929.aspx Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:31:02 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3929.aspx The International Finance Corporation's (IFC) website on extractive industries government payment disclosure has made progress, but certain gaps in data availability remain. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3924.aspx Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3924.aspx Sign-on to the civil society letter, BY OCTOBER 28, supporting the fundamental and far-reaching transformation of the international financial and economic system. The letter supports the major international conference convened by the UN to review the international financial and monetary architecture, its institutions and its governance. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3923.aspx Fri, 24 Oct 2008 11:34:35 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3923.aspx The governments of the United States and Peru have reached an agreement to reduce Peru’s debt payments in exchange for protecting Peru’s tropical forests. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3921.aspx Tue, 21 Oct 2008 12:36:33 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3921.aspx Committee aims to address the negative impacts of climate change in the region of Tumbes. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3920.aspx Mon, 20 Oct 2008 13:51:21 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3920.aspx The presidents of the IDB, CAF and FLAR met with the intention of giving signals to the region that there are significant resources to make them available to Latin American countries beyond the resources available regularly. The total amount of contingency resources put together by the three institutions accounts for $9.3 billion to provide greater liquidity to financial markets in the region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3918.aspx Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:51:08 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3918.aspx BICECA Quarterly Bulletin 2008 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3907.aspx Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3907.aspx Quarterly BICECA Bulletin 2008 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3906.aspx Mon, 29 Sep 2008 14:18:43 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3906.aspx Amazonian civil society organizations demand that the World Bank adhere to international standards by increasing the participation of indigenous peoples in meetings on forests and climate change. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3899.aspx Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3899.aspx En un acto de lo mas violento en la historia de la democracia de Bolivia, una campaña realizada por los Prefectos de la oposición en el país intentaron desestabilizar el gobierno de Evo Morales, quitando la vida a 30 personas y dejando varias docenas más heridas en la provincia Amazónica de Pando. La mayoría de los gobiernos regionales expresan su condena, Estados Unidos está silencioso. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3898.aspx Wed, 17 Sep 2008 14:34:35 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3898.aspx El Banco Interamericano de Desarrollo (BID) desestimó una propuesta de la sociedad civil para realizar un seminario conjunto sobre infraestructura y mecanismos de planificación sostenibles en el Amazonas. Dicho seminario se proponía para la próxima reunión que el Banco desarrollará con la sociedad civil en Montevideo, Uruguay, el 16 y 17 de Octubre. Por muchos motivos la relación del BID con la sociedad civil ha caído a su nivel más bajo. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3896.aspx Mon, 15 Sep 2008 10:56:07 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3896.aspx In the worst violent act in the history of Bolivia's democracy, a campaign by opposition Prefects in Bolivia seeking to destabilize the MAS government, took the lives of as many as 30 people, and wounded dozens more, in the Amazonian province of Pando. Most regional governments expressed condemnation, while the United States remained silent. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3895.aspx Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3895.aspx Si bien los pueblos originarios de Perú han logrado que el Congreso de la República derogue los decretos legislativos N° 1015 y N° 1073, todavía la protección de sus derechos y sus tierras no está completamente asegurada. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3894.aspx Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3894.aspx The "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3889.aspx Fri, 05 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3889.aspx The "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3886.aspx Fri, 29 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3886.aspx The "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3880.aspx Fri, 22 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3880.aspx The "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3872.aspx Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3872.aspx The "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3866.aspx Fri, 08 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3866.aspx The "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3863.aspx Fri, 01 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3863.aspx Flaws in the environmental review process combined with negative social implications fuel fears of the Chan 75 hydroelectric project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3861.aspx Mon, 04 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3861.aspx The "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3856.aspx Fri, 25 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3856.aspx On July 11th a bus carrying activists from different social movements collided with a truck transporting gas. The explosion of both vehicles caused the death of fourteen people, four of them activists of the Movement for Dam-Affected People (MAB). http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3855.aspx Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3855.aspx Over 50 civil society experts on International Financial Institution (IFI) issues and former IFI staff gathered in Ecuador in late June with the hope of playing a fundamental role in the configuration of the Bank of the South. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3853.aspx Mon, 21 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3853.aspx The "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3848.aspx Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3848.aspx The "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3841.aspx Fri, 11 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3841.aspx As the World Bank prepares to launch two new climate investment funds at the upcoming G8 summit, and positions itself as the "climate bank," new statistics developed by the Bank Information Center show that the World Bank's private sector arm, the International Financial Corporation (IFC), increased its lending for fossil fuel projects by a staggering 165% in FY2008. Taken as a whole, the World Bank Group increased its fossil-fuel lending by 60% in the same period. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3840.aspx Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3840.aspx A letter sent to President Moreno lays out a series of arguments suggesting greater control by civil society organizations in a change that would mark a dramatic shift in the Bank designed meetings of the past. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3838.aspx Thu, 03 Jul 2008 08:54:18 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3838.aspx Bank Information Center has recently released it's new "Handbook for Advocacy on Extractive Industry Revenues: Good Practices and the IMF’s Guide on Resource Revenue Transparency." http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3836.aspx Tue, 01 Jul 2008 14:34:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3836.aspx A major new book, jointly published by the Bank Information Center, International Rivers and other partners, aims to explain the contradictions of the Hydroelectric Complex and the hydroways of the Madeira River. "Aguas Turvas" will serve as a tool for those that seek to understand the history of the project and its implications for the Amazon region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3827.aspx Mon, 23 Jun 2008 15:40:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3827.aspx The "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3826.aspx Fri, 27 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3826.aspx The "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3802.aspx Fri, 13 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3802.aspx The "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3791.aspx Fri, 06 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3791.aspx The World Bank announced today that it has set up a financing facility in the order of $1.2 billion to assist with the global food crisis. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3784.aspx Thu, 29 May 2008 15:16:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3784.aspx The International Monetary Fund (IMF) lending is at an all time low, and the institution is forced to redefine its role as developing countries benefit from the availability of other sources of finance. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3783.aspx Wed, 28 May 2008 11:57:54 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3783.aspx The "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3781.aspx Fri, 30 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3781.aspx This is a new feature from BIC! This "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3779.aspx Fri, 23 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3779.aspx Marina Silva's resignation is linked to her opposition to many of the major megaprojects planned and underway in the Brazilian Amazon, including two large hydroelectric dams on the Madeira River. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3766.aspx Wed, 14 May 2008 11:26:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3766.aspx This is a new feature from BIC! This "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3764.aspx Fri, 16 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3764.aspx Skyrocketing food prices have forced the international financial institutions (IFIs) to articulate responses to the situation. The World Bank has conjured a "New Deal for Global Food Policy" to pump agriculture-oriented loans and programs into Africa and to address emergency financing needs. The IMF has voiced concern over the likely macroeconomic shocks of the food crisis in low-income countries. But the Bretton Woods Institutions must wrestle with a legacy that helped set the stage for diminished food security in many low-income countries. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3763.aspx Fri, 09 May 2008 10:31:29 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3763.aspx This is a new feature from BIC! This "Weekly Roundup" is a compilation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3762.aspx Fri, 09 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3762.aspx This is a new feature from BIC! This "Weekly Roundup" is a compliation of select news articles, blogs or other media concerning the international financial institutions from the past week. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3749.aspx Fri, 02 May 2008 10:47:40 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3749.aspx In his blog, Jim Schultz of The Democracy Center writes about the World Bank's attempts to improve its image in Bolivia by rewriting its role in the country's history. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3737.aspx Mon, 21 Apr 2008 10:46:48 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3737.aspx Read the special Spring Meetings edition of the Bretton Woods Update, co-produced with Afrodad, Bank Information Center, Choike, and Eurodad. The issue is also available in Spanish. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3724.aspx Mon, 07 Apr 2008 20:18:31 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3724.aspx As the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) today announced record lending of $9.6 billion in 2007, environmental and human rights groups warned that the milestone had come at the expense of the environment and communities. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3723.aspx Mon, 07 Apr 2008 17:07:38 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3723.aspx Bank ignores climate change and development indicators as estimated 250 million Latin Americans live in poverty despite near half-century of lending. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3715.aspx Thu, 03 Apr 2008 10:25:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3715.aspx A publication of civil society groups working to reform the Inter-American Development Bank. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3713.aspx Fri, 04 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3713.aspx As a result of the Inter-American Development Bank's (IDB) recent realignment, indigenous issues are now demoted within a Bank that touts its credentials for social inclusion. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3711.aspx Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3711.aspx As wealthy local and foreign investors purchase more and more Brazilian land, wuestions over how to contain rising land prices emerge. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3708.aspx Fri, 28 Mar 2008 09:56:19 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3708.aspx Information and resources for civil society. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3678.aspx Tue, 19 Feb 2008 10:20:53 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3678.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3659.aspx Wed, 30 Jan 2008 14:07:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3659.aspx Ecuador's actions are part of a wider dissatisfaction among some Central and South American countries with international investment law and particularly its dispute settlement regime. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3629.aspx Mon, 17 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3629.aspx A high level delegation of indigenous, civil society and Parliamentarian leaders from Peru are in Washington, DC to lobby against the expected vote on public loans for the Peru LNG natural gas liquification plant. The delegation argues that by approving the project, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Ex-Im Bank and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), would breach their own social and environmental safeguards. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3627.aspx Thu, 13 Dec 2007 15:10:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3627.aspx Seven South American leaders launched the Bank of the South (Banco del Sur) on Sunday, touting it as the continent's alternative to U.S.-backed lenders. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3614.aspx Mon, 10 Dec 2007 14:20:24 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3614.aspx The Second Latin American Congress of National Parks and Protected Areas held in San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina was the largest gathering of environmental organizations working in Latin America since the last Congress in 1997, held in Santa Marta. Read Vince McElhinny's recap of the events of the Congress. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3588.aspx Fri, 30 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3588.aspx Eight countries are planning to inaugurate the Bank of the South in December 2007. The Bank of the South represents the cornerstone to a more wholesale renovation of the regional financial architecture long dependent on Northern banks. Read Vince McElhinny's new info brief on the Bank of the South and what it means for Latin America, and the continued relevance of the international financial institutions for the region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3573.aspx Wed, 14 Nov 2007 16:58:22 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3573.aspx On November 1, Jubilee South and other civil society organizations unveiled an open letter to the presidents of Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Venezuela calling for a sovereign, supportive, sustainable and integrated Bank of the South. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3557.aspx Fri, 02 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3557.aspx Announcement shows the growing internal pressure at the institution to push lending for major energy initiatives. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3553.aspx Tue, 30 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3553.aspx Questions remain as to whether the IFC will use its role as a major IDA donor to deflect criticism of its own investments. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3545.aspx Thu, 18 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3545.aspx Continued macro-economic prosperity in Latin America furthers decline in World Bank relevance in the region as worries grow about competition with Bank of the South. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3543.aspx Thu, 18 Oct 2007 15:15:15 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3543.aspx In it's first major petrochemical investment since Peru’s Camisea Natural Gas project, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) will likely loan US$1.5 billion to Ecuador to help the country's state-owned oil company PetroEcuador. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3535.aspx Sun, 14 Oct 2007 18:48:24 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3535.aspx BICECA Quarterly Bulletin 2007 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3530.aspx Wed, 01 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3530.aspx On October 15th, a public hearing on the World Bank will take place in The Hague. The hearing aims to raise the debate on the legitimacy of the World Bank and influence the aid distribution process. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3529.aspx Tue, 09 Oct 2007 16:10:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3529.aspx Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez announces that the Bank of the South will be formed on Monday in Caracas. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3527.aspx Wed, 03 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3527.aspx World Bank President Robert Zoellick has named former Nigerian Finance Minister, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, as a new managing director of the Bank, effective December 1, 2007. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3522.aspx Fri, 05 Oct 2007 10:50:47 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3522.aspx The World Bank has approved plans to proceed with the development of the controversial Forest Carbon Partnership Facility, although many critical issues remain unanswered. Civil society groups are concerned that the initiative may end up being profitable for governments, companies and investors without any real reductions in carbon emissions, true protection of forest resources, or equitable benefits for the poor. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3510.aspx Tue, 25 Sep 2007 11:19:42 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3510.aspx On September 13th, after over 20 years of negotiations, the United Nations General Assembly finally adopted the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The international declaration sets a higher standard for international financial institutions (IFIs) to ensure safeguards and strengthen their policies on indigenous peoples. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3495.aspx Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:34:28 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3495.aspx The world's first debt audit commission began July 23 in Guayaquil, Ecuador. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3453.aspx Mon, 30 Jul 2007 13:45:06 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3453.aspx Whatever else you might say of him, Luis Alberto Moreno does not waste time. Named fourth president of the Inter-American Development Bank in 2005, he announced IDB would remake its role in Latin America at his first annual meeting just one year later. Read Vince McElhinny's new policy brief on the realignment process, components and concerns. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3440.aspx Wed, 18 Jul 2007 15:52:22 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3440.aspx Faced with a changing global economy, the Inter-American Development Bank is expanding its services. The plan mirrors similar efforts by the World Bank and IMF to remain relevant as demand for traditional loans dwindles. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3438.aspx Fri, 13 Jul 2007 11:16:07 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3438.aspx While the specific role and activities of the new Latin American regional development bank are still being debated, plans are moving forward to formalize an agreement between members that would create an alternative to the World Bank and IMF. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3433.aspx Mon, 09 Jul 2007 13:45:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3433.aspx The Bank's Employee Association sent a letter to IDB President Luis Alberto Moreno on June 6 expressing "deep concern" about the IDB's upcoming realignment. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3413.aspx Fri, 22 Jun 2007 16:32:34 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3413.aspx Find out what extractive industry (oil, gas, mining) and energy projects the international financial institutions (IFIs) are financing in your country. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3395.aspx Fri, 20 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3395.aspx Negative impacts of the Mega project Camisea were reveled during the inquire of Civil Society organizations about the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment comissioned by the IDB. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3393.aspx Mon, 11 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3393.aspx This article presents an in-depth analysis of the main themes of the 2007 Meeting of the Board of Governors of the IDB, including discussion about debt relief, new initiatives, the Sustainable Energy and Climate Initiative (SECCI), the Infrastructure Fund, in addition to a list of challenges and opportunities for civil society organizations to consider for future meetings. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3380.aspx Tue, 29 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3380.aspx The Inter-American Development Bank announces the results of the environmental and social audit of Camisea project, together with the analysis of the pipelines integrity. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3377.aspx Wed, 23 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3377.aspx Representatives from organizations in several countries have sent a letter to the President of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Luis Alberto Moreno critiquing the realignment process that is restructuring the institution. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3372.aspx Wed, 23 May 2007 11:28:07 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3372.aspx BICECA Monthly Bulletin 2007 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3367.aspx Thu, 25 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3367.aspx BICECA Bolletin 2007 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3366.aspx Sun, 25 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3366.aspx BICECA Monthly Bulletin 2006 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3365.aspx Fri, 22 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3365.aspx BICECA Monthly Bulletin 2006 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3364.aspx Wed, 22 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3364.aspx These new pages reflect the expanding focus of BIC's Latin America Program. Both pages are in Spanish. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3349.aspx Tue, 15 May 2007 17:17:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3349.aspx Update and analysis of recent announcements about Banco del Sur, focusing on the implications for the ongoing crises of relevance in Latin America confronting the IMF, World Bank and IDB, as well as the challenges for deeper South American integration. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3299.aspx Tue, 01 May 2007 12:18:35 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3299.aspx Bank Information Center (BIC) is requesting improvements in the Inter-American Development Bank's (IDB) information disclosure policy toward more effective dialogue with civil society on the organization's realignment. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3275.aspx Thu, 19 Apr 2007 15:31:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3275.aspx The IDB Board of Governors announced 100% debt relief, effective retoractively to January 1, 2007, for the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere at the IDB Annual Meetings on March 16, 2007. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3221.aspx Tue, 20 Mar 2007 14:28:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3221.aspx The IDB has banned a prominent Guatemalan Bishop and a group of indigenous leaders from participating in its annual meeting in Guatemala City. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3218.aspx Mon, 19 Mar 2007 14:53:46 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3218.aspx Information and resources for civil society/Información y recursos para la sociedad civil. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3203.aspx Fri, 09 Mar 2007 10:14:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3203.aspx A recent report by the World Bank encourages Brazil to remove regulatory barriers to private sector investment. The report argues that this has to be done in order to correct the shortfall on investments in infrastructure in the country. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3194.aspx Mon, 05 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3194.aspx Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez and visiting Argentine counterpart Nestor Kirchner announced the forthcoming creation of the Banco del Sur, a regionally controlled multilateral lender intended to end South America's dependency on institutions based in rich countries http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3177.aspx Fri, 23 Feb 2007 14:26:46 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3177.aspx The IDB threatens to repeat history with a disastrous dam project in Guatemala, according to NISGUA http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3164.aspx Fri, 16 Feb 2007 13:42:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3164.aspx IDB President Moreno suggests that increased U.S. ethanol needs could be provided by Latin America http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3155.aspx Thu, 15 Feb 2007 10:22:47 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3155.aspx Summary and analysis of the IDB annual Civil Society Consultation held in Costa Rica on February 7, 2007. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3151.aspx Wed, 14 Feb 2007 10:15:52 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3151.aspx Update on two important Summits -- one official, and one organized by civil society -- that took place between the 5th and 12th of December, 2006, in Cochabamba, Bolivia, and their implications for IIRSA and the model of regional integration. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3130.aspx Mon, 05 Feb 2007 16:50:42 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3130.aspx The IDB has announced that it will hold its 48th Annual Meeting in Guatemala City, Guatemala between March 14-20. The official agenda is not yet known, but participants are speculating that the hot issues at the 2007 Annual Meeting will be announcements about the heralded IDB realignment, Camisea, and HIPC debt relief. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3097.aspx Mon, 22 Jan 2007 15:44:22 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3097.aspx An overview of the "why" and "what" of the recently announced IDB reorganization and realignment. Analyzes the risks and opportunities based on the best information BIC has obtained through extensive interviews with IDB staff and leadership. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3096.aspx Mon, 22 Jan 2007 11:17:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3096.aspx The President of the Corporación Andina de Fomento refused to release project documents for IIRSA (Integration of Regional Infrastructure in South America) projects in response to recent civil society calls for it to do so. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3092.aspx Thu, 18 Jan 2007 10:44:31 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3092.aspx The leadership of the continent of Abya Yala, both men and women, gathered within the framework of the Continental Encounter of Indigenous Pueblos and Nations of Abya Yala in La Paz Bolivia on the 10th of October 2006, in the process of analysis, discussion, and agreement regarding the preparations for the III Continental Summit of Indigenous Pueblos and Nations of Abya Yala to be realized from the 26th to the 30th of March 2007, in the territory of the Pueblo Maya in Guatemala, in accord with the consensus agreement of the II Indigenous Summit held in Quito, Ecuador in 2004. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3061.aspx Tue, 19 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3061.aspx Debt relief for Bolivia, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras and Nicaragua will total between $2.1 and $3.5 billion. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3026.aspx Tue, 21 Nov 2006 16:37:24 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3026.aspx The World Bank approved $170 million in International Finance Corporation (IFC) financing and $200 million in Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) support for the controversial Botnia pulp mill in Uruguay on Tuesday. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3019.aspx Tue, 21 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.3019.aspx Vince will lead BIC’s outreach activities and project and policy monitoring in Latin America. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2988.aspx Mon, 23 Oct 2006 15:56:35 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2988.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2868.aspx Wed, 05 Jul 2006 12:48:11 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2868.aspx In a letter to World Bank Executive Directors, civil society organizations are calling for the recognition of a community referendum in Guatemala. Communities in Sipacapa, one of the municipalities impacted by the mine, registered their position on mineral development through a popular referendum in June 2005 with a majority of villages (11 out of 13) signing community acts stating their position against mining. It has become increasingly apparent that the IFC is not taking responsibility for the problems posed by the Marlin Mine and in particular the plight of the communities which have been adversely affected. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2838.aspx Tue, 13 Jun 2006 16:48:55 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2838.aspx Specific concerns include the raising of the resevoir water level, procedures and guarantees for addressing social and environmental impacts, and a $210 million new loan to the project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2829.aspx Wed, 07 Jun 2006 09:28:36 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2829.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2712.aspx Tue, 04 Apr 2006 13:36:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2712.aspx In its recently posted audit, the Compliance Advisor Ombudsman (CAO) found several compliance issues regarding the International Financial Corporation's environmental and social due diligence in considering the Orion-Celulosas de M'Bopicua (CMB) paper mill projects in Uruguay. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2708.aspx Fri, 31 Mar 2006 11:48:08 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2708.aspx From Campinas to Belo Horizonte, what Civil Society demands from the Inter-American Development Bank. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2698.aspx Mon, 27 Mar 2006 12:24:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2698.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2595.aspx Mon, 23 Jan 2006 13:03:21 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2595.aspx World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz traveled to Brazil in mid-December on his first visit to Latin America as World Bank President. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2544.aspx Wed, 04 Jan 2006 14:43:51 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2544.aspx The statement speculates on the motivation for the President's visit, discusses avenues for dialogue with civil society, and presents a list of demands for the new President. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2565.aspx Tue, 03 Jan 2006 17:34:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2565.aspx The World Bank President met with Mario Tema and Magali Rey Rosa on December 9 http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2540.aspx Thu, 15 Dec 2005 19:23:09 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2540.aspx The Latin America Program Intern will work with BICECA Program Manager and DC Project Coordinator to provide support to our partners in Latin America and to strengthen our ability to work with and support civil society in the region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2491.aspx Mon, 21 Nov 2005 09:39:03 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2491.aspx Affected communities ask to meet with World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2466.aspx Fri, 04 Nov 2005 14:18:32 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2466.aspx Look at the latest versions of the IDB's environmental and indigenous peoples' policies, which have been finally made publicly available. Read more to learn about the current stance within the IDB that is stalling the further strengthening and approval of these important tools. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2448.aspx Wed, 26 Oct 2005 16:26:45 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2448.aspx Read our new Ecuador update and hear about activities around oil industry pollution, the IIRSA integration initiative and other hot topics of the region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2422.aspx Wed, 19 Oct 2005 14:40:11 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2422.aspx Ms. Novo will serve as the DC-based Program Associate for the three-year Building Informed Civic Engagement for Conservation in the Andes-Amazon (BICECA) project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2406.aspx Tue, 11 Oct 2005 17:20:04 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2406.aspx Ms. Novo joins the Latin America Program at BIC as DC project coordinator for the three year project Building Informed Civic Engagement for Conservation of the Andes Amazon (BICECA) http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2401.aspx Tue, 11 Oct 2005 10:07:43 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2401.aspx Read an article written by Mr. Bruce Babbit, chair of the Blue Ribbon Panel on the IDB's environmental policy. It criticizes the IDB's grandiose plans in South America, especially the IIRSA Initiative. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2370.aspx Wed, 05 Oct 2005 16:49:52 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2370.aspx Rossana Andía joined the Bank Information Center on the first of September as the Latin American project coordinator of BICECA in Lima. Read more about Ms. Andía here. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2360.aspx Fri, 30 Sep 2005 11:14:49 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2360.aspx Read the press release and letters written by the Indian Law Resource Center and learn more about the controversial consultation process and rushed outreach for the new IDB Indigenous People's Policy http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2337.aspx Mon, 19 Sep 2005 11:41:00 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2337.aspx Read the Bank Information Center's review of the CAO report criticizing the IFC's role in the Marlin open pit goldmine project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2333.aspx Tue, 13 Sep 2005 10:37:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2333.aspx Read about the IIRSA Articulation, a dynamic group of NGOs working for sustainable local development in South America, and read their declaration and mission statement. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2323.aspx Tue, 06 Sep 2005 12:39:18 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2323.aspx The Bank Information Center is tracking regional infrastructure projects in South America for an interactive database. BIC seeks your help in this project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2282.aspx Thu, 11 Aug 2005 16:14:18 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2282.aspx The Latin America Program at the Bank Information Center is offering a part time internship to help support the LAC program and work on exciting projects in Guatemala and South America. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2278.aspx Thu, 11 Aug 2005 13:58:15 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2278.aspx In spite of a citizen's petition calling for the postponement of the project, and a controversial feasibility study, the Peruvian Government announced its decision to approve the project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2244.aspx Wed, 03 Aug 2005 09:55:35 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2244.aspx Lee sobre la Carretera Interoceánica: Una vía transcontinental y un proyecto clave en la iniciativa IIRSA que cruza la Cuenca Amazónica y vincula ambas costas de Suramérica. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2227.aspx Thu, 28 Jul 2005 16:07:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2227.aspx Read the new president's biography and learn more about the election process at the IDB. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2225.aspx Thu, 28 Jul 2005 13:25:55 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2225.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2195.aspx Thu, 14 Jul 2005 14:23:05 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2195.aspx Read about the popular referendum on mining held in the town of Sipacapa, San Marcos, where ore from the Marlin Mine will be cyanide processed. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2191.aspx Fri, 01 Jul 2005 10:27:18 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2191.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2149.aspx Mon, 13 Jun 2005 15:15:47 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2149.aspx A new Compliance Advisor Ombudsman (CAO) audit calls for environmental reclassification and better oversight of the International Finance Corporation's (IFC) project. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2145.aspx Mon, 06 Jun 2005 17:02:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2145.aspx Read the latest update on IIRSA policies and projects in South America. Learn what projects are underway, what companies are profiting and how the IDB is selling IIRSA to the Europeans. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2139.aspx Fri, 03 Jun 2005 16:56:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2139.aspx After five years of advocating for adequate compensation for those affected by the Caña Brava Hydroelectric Project, Movement of People Affected by Dams occupies IDB headquarters http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2132.aspx Thu, 02 Jun 2005 14:53:23 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2132.aspx Read the latest news about Colombia: MDB activities, projects and civil society actions. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2116.aspx Wed, 18 May 2005 12:40:27 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2116.aspx Read the latest updates about the Camisea Gas Project: find out about the planned project expansion and learn more about where the royalties are really going. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2112.aspx Fri, 13 May 2005 16:29:21 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2112.aspx This update includes latest news about the Marlin Mine project in Guatemala, as well as local reactions to the ratification of CAFTA. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2100.aspx Thu, 05 May 2005 11:47:56 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2100.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2072.aspx Mon, 18 Apr 2005 11:37:11 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2072.aspx Read about the state of privatization and regional integration at the heart of the IIRSA initiative. See the impacts of globalization in the Andean region and examine how Peru's pro-free trade policies are working on the ground. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2068.aspx Mon, 11 Apr 2005 17:47:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2068.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2062.aspx Wed, 06 Apr 2005 11:55:23 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2062.aspx This first update on IFI activities in Bolivia includes current news, the new hydrocarbon laws, and the actions of civil society in the region. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2061.aspx Tue, 05 Apr 2005 15:00:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2061.aspx In this update learn more about the role of multilateral development banks and integration in Argentina. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2055.aspx Wed, 30 Mar 2005 15:02:33 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2055.aspx Read a report on the Marlin Mine and the effects of foreign investment in mining in Guatemala from the perspective of those impacted by the industry. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2019.aspx Wed, 23 Mar 2005 12:21:26 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.2019.aspx Read the Latin America Program's first update on International Financial Institution activities, projects, and related civil society activities in Brazil. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1990.aspx Tue, 22 Mar 2005 16:15:53 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1990.aspx The IDB's draft Independent Investigation Mechanism (IIM) marks a significant improvement over the existing IIM - but still falls far short of providing project-affected people with ready access to an effective process. David Hunter provides an analysis of the draft IIM and a summary of its major deficiencies. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1984.aspx Tue, 15 Mar 2005 15:31:57 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1984.aspx Peruvian civil society met with the Inter-American Development Bank in Lima on March 2 to present their plan for a Camisea Gas Project independent monitoring mechanism. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1968.aspx Thu, 10 Mar 2005 14:09:37 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1968.aspx List includes consolidated recommendations from all the public consultations: Barbados, Washington DC, Brussels, Panamá, Rio de Janeiro and Lima. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1966.aspx Wed, 09 Mar 2005 17:29:20 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1966.aspx The public consultation in Panama included 56 participants from 7 member countries in the Central American region: Costa Rica, Guatemala, México, Nicaragua, Belize, the Dominican Republic and Panamá, with representatives from government, private business and civil society. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1956.aspx Thu, 03 Mar 2005 14:59:50 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1956.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1949.aspx Mon, 28 Feb 2005 15:36:12 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1949.aspx The IIRSA Update provides information about the banks, the civil society groups and the policies affecting South America's future. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1946.aspx Mon, 28 Feb 2005 14:55:04 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1946.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1938.aspx Tue, 22 Feb 2005 11:06:01 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1938.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1933.aspx Fri, 18 Feb 2005 14:40:25 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1933.aspx The 90-day public consultation process for the Independent Inspection Mechanism (IIM) began on the 4th of February. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1931.aspx Fri, 18 Feb 2005 13:46:21 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1931.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1908.aspx Fri, 11 Feb 2005 14:47:42 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1908.aspx Indigenous people present a declaration (in Spanish) to the IDB regarding the formulation of its indigenous peoples policy and strategic framework. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1647.aspx Tue, 12 Oct 2004 15:09:41 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1647.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1598.aspx Mon, 23 Aug 2004 16:33:14 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1598.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1554.aspx Mon, 02 Aug 2004 10:27:20 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1554.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1552.aspx Mon, 02 Aug 2004 09:51:28 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1552.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1393.aspx Thu, 15 Apr 2004 11:39:42 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1393.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1397.aspx Tue, 13 Apr 2004 14:34:31 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1397.aspx The Camisea Gas Project, approved by the IDB’s Private Sector Department (PRI) in September 2003, was the focus of intense campaigning and advocacy at this year’s annual meeting. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1396.aspx Tue, 13 Apr 2004 12:38:23 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1396.aspx Civil society groups complained of a lack of information, among other things, regarding this significant regional integration plan http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1395.aspx Tue, 13 Apr 2004 12:30:06 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1395.aspx Representatives from Amazon Alliance and other indigenous organizations presented a letter to IDB management proposing specific minimum steps necessary for a successful policy consultation. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1394.aspx Tue, 13 Apr 2004 12:13:54 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1394.aspx In Jamaica, BIC voiced its concern that this meeting is not a forum for meaningful civil society participation. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1324.aspx Wed, 17 Mar 2004 12:55:16 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1324.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1318.aspx Wed, 25 Feb 2004 14:56:13 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1318.aspx In February 2004 the IDB is set to begin consultations of a draft indigenous policy together with an indigenous peoples framework. This is the direct result of pressure from indigenous communities who insist on a strong instrument to protect their rights in the face of an increase in the infrastructure portfolio at the IDB. http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1203.aspx Fri, 23 Jan 2004 20:28:04 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.1203.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.952.aspx Wed, 21 Jan 2004 13:54:01 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.952.aspx http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.348.aspx Mon, 01 Dec 2003 17:55:45 GMT http://www.bicusa.org/en/Article.348.aspx