In a shocking revelation, a leading Kenyan carbon-offsetting project, the Kasigau Corridor conservation project, has come under scrutiny for allegations of extensive sexual abuse and harassment spanning more than a decade. The project, operated by California-based firm Wildlife Works, counts Netflix, Shell, and other major companies among its clients.
The Kenya Human Rights Commission and the Centre for Research on Multinational Corporations (Somo), a Dutch NGO, conducted an investigation, revealing disturbing testimonies from 31 current and former male and female staff, as well as members of the local community. The allegations include sexual abuse, harassment, and exploitation by senior male employees of Wildlife Works between 2011 and 2023.
Wildlife Works' president, Mike Korchinsky, acknowledged the allegations and stated that the company had suspended three individuals after being made aware of the claims in August. An internal investigation by a Kenyan law firm found evidence of "deeply inappropriate and harmful behaviour" by two individuals. What an understatement.
The report details disturbing accounts, including physical assault and attempted rape on company premises. It alleges that senior men abused their positions, demanding sex for promotions and better treatment. The wives of male rangers were reportedly pursued by a senior staff member who implied their husbands' job security depended on engaging in sexual activities with him.
Verra, the leading certifier of carbon offsets, has launched an investigation into the project. The Kasigau Corridor conservation project, marketed for its contribution to women's empowerment 🤡 has been used by major companies like Netflix or Shell to fulfill their climate and biodiversity commitments.
Somo's executive director, Audrey Gaughran, talked about the culture of silence around the issue, stating that affected women had reported widespread knowledge of the allegations among employees. Perpetrators, often senior males, allegedly acted with impunity, exploiting their power positions within the company.
One more extreme example of how climate justice, climate action and gender equality are interlinked.
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It is particularly shocking that these allegations have been allowed to fester for over a decade, and that the perpetrators have acted with impunity.
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This should not be tolerated
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The Kasigau Corridor conservation project, a prominent Kenyan carbon-offsetting initiative, faces serious allegations of widespread sexual abuse and harassment spanning over a decade. Netflix, Shell, and other major companies are clients of the project operated by Wildlife Works. A joint investigation by the Kenya Human Rights Commission and Dutch NGO Somo exposed disturbing testimonies from 31 current and former staff, detailing sexual abuse, harassment, and exploitation by senior male employees between 2011 and 2023. Wildlife Works' president acknowledged the allegations, leading to the suspension of three individuals. Verra, the leading certifier of carbon offsets, has initiated an investigation into the project, highlighting how climate justice and gender equality are interconnected issues. The revelations raise concerns about the efficacy of sustainability initiatives associated with the project.
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So wrong and negative
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I hope the victims will receive justice at the end of it all. With climate change, women and children are affected more.
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This is so evil and should be investigated
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This is very unacceptable behavior
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We need to stand firm and refused such immoral behavior with strongest term possible
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Such immoral behaviour should not be tolerated
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This is disgusting and such behaviors are unacceptable! 😣
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this is Shameful and unacceptable
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This is worrying to take advantage of the innocent,this is a clear statement that shows truly as much as we are fighting for climate justice we should also fight for gender equality too,no gender is much superior than the other,we are all equal trying to make our planet better.
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This is deeply troubling and demand immediate attention and investigation.
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We cannot stand such immoral behaviors.
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This is unacceptable, all people have to be treated with decency regardless of their sexual orientation. Disgusting practice