Representatives of the United Nations (UN) Working Group on Business and Human Rights, Lira Jakulevičijene and Robert McCorkodale, met with the management of Serbia Zijin Copper and CEO Cu Godzhu to present the group’s mandate and discuss key issues related to the implementation of UN principles on business and human rights.
The UN representatives emphasized that they are independent experts focused on human rights, not involved in politics, and do not work for any company or government. Their goal is to gather information on the ground and incorporate it into a transitional report to be published on October 15.
CEO Cu Godzhu highlighted the need for continued efforts and investments to improve the century-long legacy of mining in the region, noting that seven years is insufficient to address decades of neglect. The company is taking a phased approach to improvements.
During the visit to the Bor metallurgical complex, it was noted that the company has recently focused on environmental protection, implementing measures that have significantly improved air, water, and soil quality compared to the period before the strategic partner’s involvement.
Robert McCorkodale stated that the UN Working Group will present its final report to the United Nations Human Rights Committee in June next year.
