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Right now, multinational companies are suing Colombia for $13 billion for so-called lost profits, using secretive corporate courts embedded in trade deals. But Colombia is fighting back, calling for an end to these agreements which privilege big business – including the UK-Colombia deal. Now they need us to urge the UK government to act. Will you stand with us?
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Stand with Colombia against corporate power
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For decades, the Cerrejón coal mine in Colombia has wreaked havoc on the Indigenous Wayuu community – forcing families from their homes, draining water supplies, choking the air with coal dust and destroying the natural environment.
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But the Wayuu community refused to back down. They took their battle to Colombia’s highest court – and won, securing a ruling against its expansion. Unfortunately, the fight didn’t end there. British-registered Glencore is now suing Colombia through trade deals for lost profits.
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This case is part of $13.2 billion in claims Colombia faces from similar investor disputes. This is one of many cases where multinationals block policies enacted by governments for the environment, climate or human rights, using ‘corporate courts’ written into trade deals like the UK-Colombia investment treaty – all in the name of profit.
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But Colombia is pushing back. It recently called for corporate courts to be scrapped from the UK-Colombia deal. The agreement’s initial 10-year term passed in October 2024, meaning the two countries can now agree to end it – but only if we can persuade the UK to come to the table.
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This is where you come in. We urgently need to urge MPs to take action. We also need to create a groundswell of public pressure by organising protests, petitions, and media campaigns to shine a spotlight on the issue. But we can't do this without funds. Are you able to donate £5 today to make sure decision-makers hear Colombia’s call for justice?
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Taking on corporate courts to defend climate justice
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Why is Colombia in the crosshairs? Because it’s boldly moving toward a fossil-free future – ending new oil and gas contracts and backing a Fossil Fuel Treaty. But corporate courts are penalising this progress, draining public funds, and undermining victories hard-won by frontline communities.
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We can change this – if we build enough momentum to stop the UK-Colombia deal. Your donation will help us:
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- expose corporate courts and amplify stories in the media,
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mobilise supporters to engage MPs and take action,
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build a coalition with climate groups, unions, and civil society,
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drive political action with high-profile advocacy.
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Stopping this deal would be a major blow against corporate power – not just for Colombia, but worldwide. We've taken down such treaties before, and each one is a step towards dismantling this whole system that lets corporations sue governments for protecting people and the planet. Thank you for standing with us.
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Best wishes
Cleodie Rickard
Campaigner at Global Justice Now
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PS. Multinational companies are suing Colombia for $13 billion, using secretive corporate courts to protect their profits. It’s time we stand with Colombia and urge the UK to take action.
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