Resource Extraction

It is hard to imagine that the opportunities natural resources bring to a country could have negative effects.  However, in many resource-rich countries around the world, extraction of resources supports corrupt governments and enforces conditions of poverty.

In many developing countries, foreign mining companies sometimes promise governments a share of the profits in order to get permission to extract resources from areas without giving residents fair compensation.  Rather than using this money to support development in their country, many governments use this money to keep their hold on power. This is a particular problem for many African countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Sudan. However, mining injustice is a worldwide phenomenon, affecting communities in the United States, South and Central America, and elsewhere.

Those living in resource-rich communities often are not given control over their own land, and are often left with a damaged environment, public health risks, and few benefits from the exploitation of their land. This phenomenon is known as the “resource curse,” where countries rich in natural resources have higher levels of poverty and underdevelopment than countries with fewer natural resources.

As Christians, we are called to seek justice and right relationships, love our neighbors, and protect those who are vulnerable, as well as to care for the natural environment. Resource extraction should contribute to the health of local communities, empowering them to make decisions regarding their natural resources, while respecting environmental concerns. 

The MCC Washington Office supports U.S. policies that are in accordance with Biblical principles, as well as justice for affected communities worldwide.