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  • February 1998 (Revised March 2000)
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Burma Pipeline, The

By: Debora L. Spar and Lane LaMure
  • Format:Print
  • | Language:English
  • | Pages:24
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Abstract

In 1996, Unocal Corp. joined forces with the French Total company to construct an ambitious natural gas pipeline from the Andaman Sea across the southern tip of Burma and into Thailand. At an estimated cost of $1.2 billion, the pipeline was designed to bring sorely needed energy supplies into both Thailand and Burma, and to serve as a linchpin for Unocal's expanding Asian strategy. Soon after the deal is launched, however, officials from Unocal find themselves entangled with far-sweeping political forces and activist groups that span national borders. Because of its involvement with the SLORC, Burma's military leadership, Unocal is being accused of complicity in a whole series of human rights abuses, including slavery and possible genocide. Chairman John Imle must decide how to respond to these accusations, and whether Unocal needs to rethink or restructure its operations in the face of growing international pressures.

Keywords

Political Risk; Risk Management; Corporate Social Responsibility and Impact; Social Issues; Foreign Direct Investment; Energy Industry; Asia

Citation

Spar, Debora L., and Lane LaMure. "Burma Pipeline, The." Harvard Business School Case 798-078, February 1998. (Revised March 2000.)
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About The Author

Debora L. Spar

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Related Work

    • February 1998 (Revised March 2000)
    • Faculty Research

    Burma Pipeline, The

    By: Debora L. Spar and Lane LaMure
Related Work
  • Burma Pipeline, The By: Debora L. Spar and Lane LaMure
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