After our visit to OPEC, (Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries) I found myself considering many of my previously held assumptions in regards to many oil-related issues that have occurred in recent years. While not the overall message of the presentation, it did seem as though a recurring theme was a belief of misrepresentation of OPEC in mainstream western society. I can't say that I believe all of what was said in the presentation, especially regarding the stated mission of simply promoting stable resource exports. The western narrative, however, fails to highlight the benefits felt by many members of the organization. For myself, and many westerners presumably, the focus on OPEC has been centered around the more wealthy and influential members such as Saudi Arabia and the Russian Federation. This can potentially disregard the benefits felt by the developing members of OPEC, such as South Sudan or Equatorial Guinea. For these members, it is understandable that standing alone would be both intimidating and detrimental to potential growth. Furthermore, I was very interested to hear about the development fund created by OPEC, which provides funding to non-member developing countries to develop infrastructure and energy production. While this may not be the main focus of OPEC, it is glaringly omitted by western media when discussing the breadth of the organization's activities. Overall, the presentation reminded me yet again that there are multiple sides to any story. OPEC has often been regarded as a cartel that seeks to wield undue influence. For many of its member states, however, it has provided them with a voice that would otherwise be unheard in an industry dominated by titans such as the United States, the Russian Federation and the Arab Gulf states. Do you think OPEC has been an overall force for good in the world community, or has it been appropriated by its powerful members for?
- Erika & Chris
Here is a picture of the conference room in OPEC
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