This is the question currently at stake before a Dutch civil tribunal in The Hague. The case relates to a leak from an oil pipeline that occurred in 2005 in Nigeria. It is brought jointly by Friends of the Earth Netherlands and representants from several Nigerian villages that claim reparation for economic losses (agricultural crops and fisheries) and environmental damages (water contamination and soil pollution). The cause of the leak is discussed, being a result of bad maintenance or a sabotage.
This case raises from fundamental legal issues regarding liability and territorial jurisdiction. In particular, the competence of the Dutch tribunal to judge the behaviour of a Shell's subsidiary abroad is at stake. There is also a related trial going on in Nigeria.
The Dutch tribunal is expected to take decision on its competence by the end of the year.
This case raises from fundamental legal issues regarding liability and territorial jurisdiction. In particular, the competence of the Dutch tribunal to judge the behaviour of a Shell's subsidiary abroad is at stake. There is also a related trial going on in Nigeria.
The Dutch tribunal is expected to take decision on its competence by the end of the year.
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