In the seemingly genteel parlors of a United Nations-affiliated agency, allegations of possible payments to secure votes, abuse of agency funds by top diplomats, and job offers to entice candidates to withdraw from the race have surfaced. This drama is unfolding at the International Seabed Authority, where a contentious battle over the leadership is taking place to decide the future of seabed mining for metals used in electric vehicles.
The current secretary general, Michael Lodge, is seeking re-election for a third term, aiming to finalize environmental rules ahead of the first application for industrial-scale mining. His opponent, Leticia Carvalho, advocates for a more deliberative approach, emphasizing the need to complete the rule-writing process before approving any mining applications.
The election campaign has been marred by accusations of misconduct, with claims of funds misuse, attempts to influence votes through financial incentives, and clandestine job offers to sway candidates. The result of this election will shape the direction of the Seabed Authority, determining the fate of billions of dollars in potential mining revenue and environmental concerns.
As various nations jostle for control over seabed mining rights, the controversy surrounding the Seabed Authority’s upcoming decisions underscores the high stakes involved. With intense lobbying, allegations of impropriety, and competing visions for the agency’s future, the election for the next leader is poised to be a pivotal moment in the history of international seabed mining.
