Cardinal's Fight Ends: $150M Settlement for Peru Smelter Victims

Cardinal Pedro Barreto's 19-year campaign against the Doe Run Company, a subsidiary of Renco Group, has resulted in a $150 million settlement for over 1,373 Peruvians. These individuals allegedly suffered health impacts from childhood poisoning due to the company's smelter operations in La Oroya, Peru.

Cardinal Barreto, formerly the archbishop of Huancayo, faced death threats and harassment for his activism. The settlement was announced as he prepared to testify in one of four civil trials in St. Louis, Missouri. This legal action began in 2007, seeking accountability for severe health consequences, including elevated blood lead levels in children.

The Blacksmith Institute had previously identified La Oroya as one of the world's most polluted places due to the smelter. Doe Run, owned by US billionaire Ira Rennert, did not admit wrongdoing in agreeing to the settlement, which could see each plaintiff receive at least $100,000.

This landmark payout is seen as a crucial victory in holding American companies responsible for their actions affecting foreign citizens. The legal team highlighted the passion and conviction behind the fight for justice, noting that the settlement will offer victims a new path forward. The case, considered one of the longest-running civil lawsuits against a multinational for overseas pollution, concluded after extensive legal efforts.