Session 3 - Managing local security issues in line with the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights

May 22, 2024 | 1:00 PM - 2:15 PM

Description

Mine operators often contract or work with public and private security in challenging environments. Different arrangements prevail, which can lead to a range of different consequences. When this goes wrong, it harms local communities. Poor management of security and human rights, however, also compromises social license to operate and can disrupt mining projects. Mining companies tend to hire or subcontract security providers locally and are expected to address and mitigate security and human rights risks in line with the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (VPs) and international labour standards. In parallel, state actors are increasingly resorting to private military companies (PMC) for securing mining operations, an emerging practice that poses new types of governance and security challenges in certain mining regions. This session will explore the multifaceted ways in which local security issues can manifest, and how mining operators can address them through enhanced collaboration and dialogue with governments, civil society organisations and other private sector representatives. The session will endeavour to address many of the following themes: • Challenges working with public security forces • Complex environments and conflict drivers • Protecting marginalized communities, including indigenous peoples • Fundamental rights at work • Vetting and the use of PMCs • Implications for due diligence