Chilean Salmon Farmers Question NGO's Influence On National Reserve Management

News in Brief:**- Chilean salmon farmers raise concerns about the potential influence of a United States NGO, Pew Charitable Trusts, on the management of the country's second largest national park.- Allegations of financial support to Austral University of Chile prompt calls for investigation into transparency and impartiality of decision-making processes. The Magallanes Salmon Farmers’ Association raised concerns over the potential influence of an American NGO, the Pew Charitable Trusts, on the management of the Kawésqar National Reserve in Chilean Patagonia. They called for an investigation into what they perceive as irregularities in the process. The Association alleges that between 2018 and 2020, significant financial support was provided by Pew Charitable Trusts to the Austral University of Chile (UACH), with funds earmarked for activities related to the management plan of the Kawésqar National Reserve. According to Carlos Odebret, president of the Association, this financial support has raised questions about the impartiality of the process. The nature of the financial transactions, amounting to 1.9 billion Chilean pesos, has prompted concerns about potential conflicts of interest and undue influence on decision-making processes. Odebret emphasised the need for transparency regarding the utilisation of these funds, particularly in relation to the management plan of the reserve. The Association contends that the influence exerted by Pew Charitable Trusts could have significant repercussions for local stakeholders, particularly salmon farmers in the region. The management decisions resulting from this process may impact their livelihoods and operational practices. Highlighting the principle of administrative probity enshrined in Chilean laws, Odebret stressed the importance of maintaining impartiality in public functions. The Association asserts that any undue influence from external entities compromises the integrity of the decision-making process and undermines the interests of local communities.