We have made some progress in terms of the panel for the RGS Nigeria
conference on 15 April: Oronto Douglas, an Ogoni environmental lawyer has
been added to the panel which is now as follows:
Oronto Douglas
David Moffat World Bank Agriculture and Environmental Division, (author of
Defining an environmental strategy for the Niger Delta)
Brian Anderson, Shell Nigeria
Frances D'Souza, Article 19 International Centre against Censorship
Gamaliel Onosode, Niger Delta Environment Survey
Nick Ashton-Jones, British Environmental Scientist
Reg Cline-Cole, Centre for W African studies, Birmingham.
Back in November someone wrote of putting Shell on trial at the RGS; I don't
think that this quite amounts to that, but I do think that the panel now
represents a range of views, and forces Shell Nigeria into public dialogue in
a way it has been reluctant to do thus far.
I also think it is an important moment for critical voices in British
Geography. Whatever the misgivings about the nature of the RGS, this kind of
conference is unprecedented in the history of that organization, and is
likely to get the kind of publicity which no IBG or CGF event would ever
receive. I hope as many people as possible will take the time and effort to
be there (I know that there are real difficulties for anyone going to the AAG
-- my conscience and overdraft are currently locked in mortal combat.)
The conference takes place at the RGS, Kensington Gore, London SW7 2AR
11 am to 5 pm on Monday 15th April.
Tickets are #5 (+ #2 for lunch) I'm assured that this covers costs rather
than going into RGS coffers (Mind you, if #40 000's worth turn up there might
be an interesting argument), and you should apply in advance to the RGS,
enclosing #5 and a sae.
David Gilbert, Royal Holloway.
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