Statement on the situation at Moatize Coal Mine in Mozambique
Since 2013 thyssenkrupp’s steel division has been sourcing part of its coal requirements from the Moatize Coal Mine in Mozambique, operated since 2009 by the mining company Vale. The coal is used to manufacture coke for the production of steel.
Allegations have been made in connection with the Moatize Coal Mine that thyssenkrupp is failing in its duty to ensure the protection of human rights in its supply chain. This is not true; thyssenkrupp has extensive processes in place to ensure responsible procurement. We expect all our suppliers to comply with the "thyssenkrupp Supplier Code of Conduct" and thus with the relevant national legislation and international standards on human and labor rights, environmental protection, occupational safety and health and anti-corruption. We also request our suppliers to ensure that their affiliates around the world also recognize and comply with the above principles and requirements.
In the specific case of the Moatize Coal Mine several families were resettled in 2009/2010, before the mine started operation. Since then allegations have been made that the living and income opportunities provided by the mine operators and the government are not compatible with human rights standards. In response thyssenkrupp contacted its supplier Vale S.A. and also paid two visits to the area to form its own impression of the situation. We satisfied ourselves that the program co-sponsored by the government of Mozambique has implemented a wide range of measures to ensure significantly improved living standards and good income opportunities. Among other things, hospitals, an AIDS center, a school and sports facility, roads, wells and water supply systems have been built and a farming advice service has been set up. There is an ongoing dialogue process involving everyone affected and the responsible agencies. There are currently no indications that human rights standards are being violated. We will continue to monitor the situation of the families affected and remain in dialogue on this matter with the supplier.
We are also in contact with the relevant NGOs and will inform them of our findings with regard to the situation in Mozambique.