What problems and challenges did TIAC reveal in the findings of its research entitled “Corruption Risk Assessment in the Mining Awards and in Related Mining Permit Processes in Mining Sector?”. In an interview with a1plus Sona Ayvazyan, Executive Director of TIAC noted, “We have revealed systemic problems in mining, in particular in mining award process and gave recommendations for changes in legislation and and improved enforcement of laws." According to Sona Ayvazyan the key problems causing concern are as follows:

  • Environmental Impact Expertise and the mining expertise, since the Ministry of Nature Protection lacks adequate competence, methodology, potential to carry out comprehensive study and assess feasibility. Rather than expect more from the ministry, we should think of establishing another institution, which will be able to solve the problems caused as a result of economic activity by using more comprehensive approach
  • The issues related to freedom of information and exploitation of mines are not transparent, access to information about the geological data is oftentimes unlawfully rejected; some information regarding certain mines are provided, whereas about others are rejected.
  • Companies may make payments to certain foundations led by decision making high-ranking officials. Payments may affect making other decisions.
  • There are public officials who are involved in unlawful business activities in mining. Even if they register the businesses under a name other than theirs, or under trust management in reality they stand behind those businesses.
  • Issues relating to the disclosure of beneficial owners of mining companies is a requirement adopted by EITI. Armenia takes steps to meet its commitment of disclosing beneficial owners of metal mining companies by 2020.

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