Indigenous People and Mining

Indigenous People and Mining: good practice guide (2015), ICMM.

Mining deposits intersect with the traditional lands of Indigenous Peoples worldwide. In Australia, for example, it has been estimated by the Minerals Council of Australia that 60 per cent of mining operations neighbour Aboriginal communities.

Mining companies that are responsive to Indigenous Peoples’ aspirations for development are not only more likely to successfully contribute to sustainable and equitable outcomes, but also gain community support and build a positive reputation in a region or country that improves access to future resources. In addition, companies that adopt good practice in relation to interactions with Indigenous Peoples are likely to be considered as ‘responsible companies’ which in turn, has reputational benefits. Also Importantly, it is now widely accepted that companies have a responsibility to respect human rights, including the rights of Indigenous Peoples.

This Guide presents an updated version of ICMM’s 2010 Good Practice Guide Indigenous Peoples and mining. Like the earlier version of the Guide, it is intended as a good practice resource for mining companies and others with an interest in ensuring that mining projects bring long-term mutual benefits to companies and host communities. 

		Good practice guide Indigenous Peoples and mining (Second edition).pdf