Linkage between Investment and Protection of Environmental Rights: A Case Analysis of Railway Investment and Its Impact on Environmental Rights in South Wollo, Lake Hayik

Abstract

The objective of this research is to examine the impact of investment on the protection of environmental rights by taking a case analysis of railway investment and its impact on environmental rights in South Wollo, Lake Hayik. The research adopted a qualitative approach that utilized interviews from individuals, Focus Group Discussion and key informants. It is also reviewed national and international legal frameworks. Investment is an engine for economic growth and the lifeblood for all aspects of development. Nevertheless, if it is not properly regulated it can damage environment which is the very survival of every living thing. So, investment is necessary evil. Due to this fact, there have been different move by the world community to protect environmental rights. In recent years, Ethiopia has taken steps toward opening several sectors of the economy to competition and to encourage and facilitate new investment. On one hand, the government has been turning every stone to achieve the goals of economic development, and on another hand, it seems that there are moves toward protecting healthy environment. However, the process of balancing development and environmental protection is far from complete. The study finds out that the practices in the Awash-Woldia railway investment are impermissible. In the Awash-Woldia railway project there is no EIA. Environmental protection cannot be a solely environmental institution or a solely investment organs, but must cover the whole spectrum of interactions for our better life. However, the study finds out that the non existence of cooperation between the two institutions. Besides, the study indicates in the Ethiopian investment as well as environmental laws there is no incentives for thus investors who protect the environment properly. It also finds out that the solutions for environmental protection provided by the Ethiopian laws are not enough as per the current market value. Lake of knowledge and mala administration are also other obstacles to implement environmental rights in Ethiopia as the study indicate