In a brave stand for justice, a group of residents from South Sumatra has sought protection from Indonesia’s National Human Rights Commission after facing intimidation for suing three pulpwood companies over persistent haze pollution. These residents assert that recurring fires within company concessions have severely impacted their health, education, and livelihoods, spotlighting the dire need for corporate accountability in environmental matters.
The case, currently in the evidentiary stage after unsuccessful mediation attempts, demands financial compensation and environmental restoration. Yeyen, one of the plaintiffs, revealed she was pressured by company representatives to withdraw her lawsuit. “How much money do you want? Where does your husband want to work?” she recounted, showcasing the lengths to which these corporations may go.
Intimidation has not been limited to bribery; threats have also surfaced, with local journalists pressuring individuals to withdraw from the case. This compelled the plaintiffs to seek assistance, prompting Arif, another plaintiff, to highlight, “There are risks in suing large companies, and we need security guarantees” as they face escalating intimidation attempts.
The rights violations extend far beyond intimidation, as highlighted by Pramono Ubaid Tanthowi of Komnas HAM, who noted that the air pollution stemming from the three pulp companies affects the right to a healthy environment and other fundamental rights, including education and stable employment. The lawsuit accuses firms such as PT Bumi Mekar Hijau, PT Bumi Andalas Permai, and PT Sebangun Bumi Andalas Wood Industries of being significant contributors to haze pollution.
Environmental damage has persisted, with hundreds of thousands of hectares burning on company concessions, crystallising the plaintiffs’ claims for damages due to health issues and psychological impacts. The majority of affected individuals are engaged in occupations such as farming, fishing, and education, all suffering economically from the haze.
Efforts for mediation have failed since the companies were unwilling to accept fair terms. As the court proceedings commence, the plaintiffs seek damages ranging from 200,000 to 200 million rupiah for personal and economic losses, emphasizing the significance of ecological restoration in their demands. This case may redefine corporate accountability within Indonesia’s haze crisis, representing a landmark moment for environmental justice.
Amidst the threats, Yeyen remains steadfast in her pursuit of justice, hoping to safeguard a healthier future for her child, Adil. She stated, “We want to hold the defendants accountable and deter them from causing such harmful conditions again.” The ongoing case illustrates the resilience of those fighting for their rights within the shadows of corporate practices.
Residents of South Sumatra are suing three pulpwood companies over haze pollution, facing intimidation tactics including bribes and threats. They seek protection from the National Human Rights Commission, asserting that ongoing fires severely harm their health and livelihoods. The case is currently in the evidentiary stage, with the plaintiffs demanding financial compensation and environmental restoration, potentially setting a precedent for corporate accountability in Indonesia.
The vigilant fight of South Sumatra residents against pulpwood companies underscores a crucial battle for environmental justice. Their resolve in pursuing a lawsuit, notably against threats and intimidation, highlights the pressing need for corporate accountability. This case could potentially pave the way for strict liability in environmental damages, ensuring that no one suffers under the pall of pollution and corporate negligence in the future. Through their struggle, they highlight a longing for a healthier environment for future generations.
Original Source: news.mongabay.com
