Call: Those affected must have a say in the decision-making process

Mining in indigenous territories

More than half of the raw material deposits required for future technologies are located within the habitats or territories of indigenous peoples. This makes it all the more important that economic interests are not prioritised over their rights: participation is the foundation for the fair and sustainable management of natural resources.

Nevertheless, the right of indigenous peoples to free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) in particular is frequently disregarded in mining projects. The Evangelical Lutheran Mission, together with over 30 environmental, human rights and development organisations, is therefore calling for access to information, effective participation and effective complaint and redress procedures to be guaranteed for affected communities. To implement the rights of indigenous peoples, in particular FPIC, in a binding manner.

Read the position paper here (please click).

Background:

The ILO 169 Working Group – Implementing the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

The Evangelical Lutheran Mission in Lower Saxony is part of the ILO 169 Working Group – Implementing the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The working group is a coalition of civil society, academia and activists. Together, they are committed to the rights of indigenous peoples – based on ILO Convention 169, the key agreement on the protection of indigenous rights.

ILO Convention No. 169

The ILO Convention No. 169 of 1989 recognises the distinct characteristics and ways of life of indigenous peoples. Its 44 articles are designed to enable indigenous peoples to develop in a way that takes account of their own specific priorities as indigenous peoples. At the heart of ILO Convention 169 are the consultation and participation procedures designed to ensure that indigenous peoples are involved in and have a say in projects that affect them.

Natural resources and human rights

Mining, oil and gas extraction, and large-scale infrastructure projects often encroach deeply into indigenous territories. They threaten forests, water bodies and the livelihoods of the people who have protected and managed these areas for generations. The protection of indigenous rights is therefore inextricably linked to a responsible natural resources policy.

Participation is a right

ILO Convention 169 strengthens the right of indigenous communities to have a say in the use of natural resources. Affected peoples must be informed at an early stage, consulted comprehensively and involved in decision-making. Projects in their territories should only be implemented with their free, prior and informed consent – not over their heads.

Global responsibility

Germany also bears responsibility: the high demand for raw materials affects global supply chains and increases pressure on indigenous habitats. A sustainable future can only be achieved if the protection of human rights, biodiversity and genuine participation are considered together.

Read the position paper here (please click here).

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