Extractive Industries and Indigenous Peoples
Seminar to be held in Tromsø, Norway, on Monday 10 September 2012
Organised by the Government of Norway and the Working group on indigenous peoples in the Barents Euro-Arctic Council
Indigenous issues are important for Norway and are highly prioritized under the Norwegian chairmanship in the Barents Euro-Arctic Council 2011-2013. The extraction of minerals in the region challenges traditional and eco-friendly ways to harvest the natural resources. These changes raise interesting scientific and political questions.
As the chairman of the Barents Euro-Arctic Council, Norway wants to facilitate an informed debate around these issues. It is important to discuss how to best ensure the rights of indigenous peoples, and how to further a balanced cooperation between indigenous peoples, business and government. This debate can help prevent conflicts and ensure sustainable social development.
The seminar aims at gathering a broad group of participants to address these issues.
The broader context for the discussions is the UN Guiding Principles on Human Rights and Business, the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises and the ongoing work of UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Update: The report from the seminar has been published.