Woodside Petroleum decided to withdraw its workers from its drilling program offshore Myanmar in response to suspected human rights violations following the military coup in the country.
Woodside initially continued drilling after the coup in early February but said Feb. 27 that reports of violence against Myanmar people participating in peaceful protests are deeply distressing.
“Until we see the outlook for Myanmar and its political stability has improved, Woodside will keep all business decisions under review,” the statement said.
The company has begun reducing its staff presence and expects full demobilization of its drilling team within weeks. The company has about 100 workers in the country.
The drilling is exploration only and did not generate revenue in the country nor did it have any direct commercial arrangements with the Myanmar military-connected organizations.
