Orano

France

Orano is a French nuclear fuel company primarily involved in the production and recycling of nuclear fuels, as well as providing services related to the nuclear energy sector. The company emphasizes sustainability and environmental responsibility in its operations.

CCI Score

12.35

9.21% May 30

Latest Event

Orano Loses Control in Niger Amid Junta Takeover

On December 8, 2024, Orano announced that Niger's military junta had taken operational control of its local uranium mining firm, Somaïr. The takeover, set against a backdrop of political upheaval following the 2023 coup in Niger, has plunged Orano into financial distress and disrupted uranium exports, while the company has attempted to safeguard worker salaries.

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SABOTEUR

Orano is currently rated as a Saboteur.

+10 to +24 CCI Score

Companies in this bracket take more subtle actions to undermine authoritarian practices. They might implement internal policies or support reforms that quietly weaken oppressive systems, contributing to change in less overt ways.

Latest Events

DEC

08

2024

Orano Loses Control in Niger Amid Junta Takeover
12.13

On December 8, 2024, Orano announced that Niger's military junta had taken operational control of its local uranium mining firm, Somaïr. The takeover, set against a backdrop of political upheaval following the 2023 coup in Niger, has plunged Orano into financial distress and disrupted uranium exports, while the company has attempted to safeguard worker salaries.
+15

Public and Political Behavior

May 30

Orano maintained a low profile amid escalating geopolitical tensions and avoided engaging with the junta, thereby distancing itself from authoritarian influence. This neutrality, while not proactive, reflects a commitment to not enabling the regime's repressive actions.

Niger-France relations: Nuclear giant Orano loses control of uranium operations to junta
+10

Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices

May 30

Amid the operational shutdown and ensuing financial crisis, Orano prioritized the payment of workforce salaries. This decision underscores a commitment to protecting worker welfare during a period of external political and economic disruption.

Niger-France relations: Nuclear giant Orano loses control of uranium operations to junta
NOV

12

2024

Orano Denounces Junta Interference in Somair Governance
38.72

Orano has stated that the Nigerien junta has taken operational control of its subsidiary Somair, obstructing board decisions that were intended to suspend production for financial and employee welfare reasons. The company claims that its decisions – aimed at prioritizing salary payments and safeguarding industrial assets – are being deliberately undermined by the junta’s interference.
+50

Public and Political Behavior

May 30

Orano publicly denounced the junta's takeover of operational control at Somair, highlighting that the unauthorized interference prevented the proper implementation of board resolutions. This action demonstrates the company's stance against external political manipulation and authoritarian interference, aligning with Progressive anti-fascist ideals.

France's Orano says Niger junta controls uranium firm
+30

Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility

May 30

By deciding to suspend production in order to prioritize the payment of salaries and preserve industrial integrity, Orano demonstrates a commitment to responsible business practices and the well‑being of its employees. This action, though impacted by external authoritarian interference, underscores the company's ethical stance in safeguarding worker rights and community interests.

France's Orano says Niger junta controls uranium firm
JUN

21

2024

Operating Licence Revoked at Niger Uranium Mine
-41.45

Niger authorities revoked Orano's operating licence for its Imouraren uranium mine after the company failed to meet the development deadline, a decision that has potential negative implications for the region's economic, social, and societal development. Orano stated it had resumed activities on June 4 and reserved the right to challenge the decision legally.
-50

Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility

May 30

Orano's failure to initiate development on schedule and secure a stable operational presence at the Imouraren uranium mine reflects a neglect of its social and economic responsibilities. This neglect undermines local community development and worker welfare, which is especially concerning given the region's reliance on mining for economic growth.

France's Orano loses operating licence at major uranium mine in Niger
-40

Economic and Structural Influence

May 30

The withdrawal of Orano's licence disrupts the regional economic structure and hampers local development, contributing to broader economic instability. This decision further underscores the company's inability to align its operational practices with the socio-economic needs of the host community.

France's Orano loses operating licence at major uranium mine in Niger
JUN

02

2024

Orano Challenges Authoritarian Seizure in Niger
40.00

In 2024, Orano, a French nuclear fuel firm, had its license for the Imouraren uranium mine revoked and its subsidiary Somair seized by Niger's military government. In response, the company initiated legal action against Niger, citing illegal detention and property confiscation, thereby opposing authoritarian overreach.