In too many countries, Jan Eliasson says, a wealth of natural resources has benefited a powerful few while communities and individuals pay a terrible cost in corruption, human rights abuses and environmental damage.
“Yet, managed wisely, extractive resources can — and should — be the foundation for sustainable development and lasting peace,” Eliasson told the U.N. Security Council on Wednesday.
Former U.N. secretary-general Kofi Annan told the council that it’s up to governments to effectively and transparently manage their resources to prevent conflict, fight corruption and promote sustainable development.