Our alliance to reform the convention and help protect workers globally from asbestos and other chemicals is raising its voice at the COP12 meeting of the Rotterdam Convention to push for global health and safety protections for workers and communities
The Rotterdam Convention is a critical international agreement that gives countries the right to know about hazardous chemicals and pesticides before they are imported. It’s a vital tool for protecting people and the environment.
But there’s a problem: a small group of countries continues to block the listing of hazardous chemicals – putting industry profits ahead of public health and the safety of communities in developing countries.
Six chemicals have been blocked from listing to date—some for years. Chrysotile asbestos, for example, has been recommended for listing for nearly 20 years. At this meeting, four more hazardous chemicals are under consideration—and on the very first day, three have already been blocked.
“The Convention is not working,” said Phillip Hazelton, Senior Adviser to the Asbestos. Not Here. Not Anywhere. campaign.
“It’s being manipulated by industry interests – particularly asbestos and pesticide lobbyists.”
In recent years, some chemical producers and traders have twisted the purpose of the Convention to suit their business interests. When a chemical is not listed – even if it’s due to political or procedural blocks – these companies falsely claim that it must be safe. They then use this claim to boost sales and lobby governments, particularly in the global south, against introducing laws that would protect workers and communities from exposure.
Some industry groups are also spreading misinformation about how the Convention works and exaggerating the support for their products. These tactics not only undermine the Convention’s intent but also threaten its future.
The Union Aid Abroad–APHEDA campaigner added:
“We’re calling for all blocked chemicals to be listed at this meeting. But without urgent reform of the Convention, that won’t happen.
We must stop the corporate capture of the Rotterdam Convention.”