"China must listen to those directly affected by its belt and road projects to do the most good", 28 October 2020

[...] Eight national and regional non-governmental organisations from the Philippines, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka interviewed more than 100 villagers and citizens who live near belt and road projects in these countries. Their testimonies provide a timely view of what lies ahead for the boat. [...]

Based on the interviews, renewable energy and road construction are among the most welcome projects. However, a lack of communication between the affected communities and the Chinese investors and companies is among the most prominent complaints. [...]

Such frustrations are the initial ripples with the potential to grow into pressing waves that end up strong enough to capsize the largest ship. Unfortunately, they rarely get the chance to travel all the way to the Chinese policymakers and investors for various reasons, such as language barriers and cultural differences. [...]

Another possible reason is local partners and government agencies intentionally cutting off such communication to attract huge Chinese investment. As Ian Rivera, national coordinator of the Philippine Movement for Climate Justice, said, “the Philippine government does not have a solid record of transparent and thorough environmental and social impact assessments”.Whatever the reason, these initial ripples should not be neglected. It is not just people living near the projects whose lives are being changed forever. China’s reputation and investments are also being tested with each belt and road deal signed.

This is strong enough reason for Chinese stakeholders, especially those directly involved in making policy and finance decisions about the projects, to reach out to the communities that will be affected by these projects. [...]