RAW Talks, an exciting new interview series about the extractive industries and development, has been launched. The interview series shares the ideas and experience of innovative thinkers and practitioners in the field of resource policy and economics. Interviews can be found at www.rawtalks.org

Featuring in-depth discussions with experts from around the globe, RAW Talks tackles the fundamental question of how to transform mineral resources into economic development and prosperity.

Founder Nicolas Di Boscio says: “RAW Talks is insightful and modern, combining analytical rigor with a clear and straightforward communications style. It will go a long way to reinvigorate the debate on the extractives and development”.

RAW Talks is a not-for-profit supported by its foundation partners:

• German Cooperation (implemented by BGR and GIZ)
• Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)
• Centre for Energy, Petroleum and Mineral Law and Policy at the University of Dundee.

Sven Renner, Head of BGR’s Extractives & Development program says: “We are proud to support this initiative. While we have made progress in understanding the inherent virtues and challenges of the extractive industries, we should now shift focus to the dissemination and practical implementation of that knowledge”

Ramon Espinasa, Lead Oil and Gas specialist at the IDB says: “Well managed, mining, oil and gas can deliver sustainable economic benefits to civil society, industry and government. To secure this outcome we need a more informed conversation to underpin better decision-making. RAW Talks takes a significant step in that direction”