Financial institutions and corporations driving coastal conflicts involving Indigenous Peoples

Socio-environmental conflicts associated with large-scale economic projects in Indigenous territories are well documented, but conflicts in coastal zones remain largely unexplored. While most studies focus on the negative social-ecological impacts, the financial institutions and corporations that are responsible for these activities are often overlooked. This study addresses this gap by examining the financial institutions and corporations associated with more than 400 reported socio-environmental conflicts affecting Indigenous Peoples in coastal areas worldwide. Our results show that most financial institutions supporting projects linked to conflicts are based in Western Europe and Northern America, with Northern American institutions linked to multiple projects. The energy sector accounts for the highest number of conflicts, particularly those involving corporations operating across continents. Many European and North American corporations operate mostly in Africa, but also globally. Companies with overseas operations are associated with a higher intensity of conflicts. These findings highlight the need to scrutinize financial investments and corporate practices driving socio-environmental conflicts in coastal Indigenous territories, where human rights are often at risk. The lack of due diligence and accountability in applying environmental and social safeguards weakens protections for both ecosystems and communities. Strengthening the enforcement of national and international laws on environmental sustainability, human rights and Indigenous rights is therefore essential for coastal development projects.