Justice for Myanmar has urged the UN to investigate conflicts of interest related to Special Envoy Julie Bishop, citing her ties with Chinese state-owned companies through Energy Transition Minerals. Bishop’s role as a strategic advisor for ETM has raised concerns about her ability to serve effectively in promoting democracy and resolving the crisis in Myanmar, amid substantial revenues funding the military regime from rare minerals.

The advocacy group Justice for Myanmar (JFM) has requested an inquiry by the United Nations regarding potential conflicts of interest involving its Special Envoy to Myanmar, Julie Bishop. Bishop, who previously served as Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs from 2013 to 2018, was appointed the UN Special Envoy in April 2024. Additionally, she is the head of the consultancy firm, Julie Bishop and Partners.

Reports from The Saturday Paper indicate that Bishop is affiliated with Energy Transition Minerals (ETM), a company partly controlled by the state-owned Chinese firm Shenghe Resources, which holds 9% of ETM. ETM is also associated with the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), further entrenching its ties to Chinese governmental entities.

ETM is embroiled in a contentious mining project in Kvanefjeld, Greenland, where it has faced local opposition due to urgent health and environmental concerns. After a governmental ban on uranium mining in 2021, ETM is now engaging in a legal dispute with the authorities. Bishop agreed to act as a strategic advisor to ETM in January 2024, aiming “to provide advice and assistance” concerning the development of the Kvanefjeld Project amid ongoing legal disputes.

Activists, particularly from JFM, have raised alarm over Bishop’s role with ETM, fearing it may compromise her responsibilities as the UN Special Envoy to Myanmar. Given Myanmar’s position as a primary supplier of rare minerals to China and Shenghe Resources’ significant role within this sector, there are concerns that the financial proceeds from this industry support the military regime in Myanmar, thus undermining democratic efforts. Bishop’s potential associations with such entities may contradict her duty to facilitate a resolution to Myanmar’s ongoing crisis, which requires “trust and integrity” in her efforts.

In summary, the call for investigation into Julie Bishop’s affiliations underscores the potential for conflicts of interest in her role as the UN Special Envoy to Myanmar. Given her ties with companies linked to the Chinese government and the military regime in Myanmar, there is concern that these relationships could hinder her effectiveness and commitment to her mission. Ensuring transparency and accountability is vital for fostering trust in international diplomatic efforts.

Original Source: www.jurist.org

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