Session 3 - Security and social license to operate: preventing tensions from escalating into conflict
May 22, 2024 | 1:00 PM - 2:15 PM
May 22, 2024 | 1:00 PM - 2:15 PM
Description
The mining sector has broad exposure to security issues, with implications for communities and larger regions alike. 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, therefore, end up compromising 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. 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
• Implications for due diligence
