Responding to a global crisis The COVID-19 crisis has had significant effects on the extractive industries and on EITI implementation. Constraints on funding and mobility have hampered core aspects of the EITI process, such as convening stakeholders and disseminating information. Most EITI countries have had to pursue alternative ways of working to sustain EITI implementation throughout the pandemic. These challenges have also created opportunities for innovation. Recognising the pressures and limitations that many EITI countries are facing, the EITI Board introduced greater flexibility in EITI reporting requirements. Initially introduced in May 2020, the flexible measures were extended in October and to date, almost a third of EITI countries have opted for this approach. By undertaking flexible reporting, implementing countries have been able to retain the momentum of the EITI process while adapting to local circumstances and urgent information needs. It has enabled multi-stakeholder groups to focus their resources on disclosing key information, such as the impact of COVID-19 on extractive revenues, production, exports and employment. This type of data can further inform governments and companies to support sound policy decisions through and beyond the crisis. 6 PHOTO CREDIT: Photographic services, Shell International Limited Extractives transparency* in a year of change* 0 2 4 6 8 0 1 0 2 4 6 8 0 7 17 countries have opted for flexible EITI reporting.