A key objective of our community engagement and sustainable development programs is to understand the communities located in the regions where we operate, and to identify potential impacts (both positive and negative) to those communities. Therefore, we undertake Social Impact Assessments (SIA) early in the development process, and take the findings from these assessments into account during mine planning and operations. If indigenous peoples reside in, or have a collective attachment to the project area, a consultation plan will be developed to address the specific needs, concerns and characteristics of such groups. As well, local communities’ land and customary rights are identified through the social impacts assessment process.
During all stages of the mine life we maintain a dialogue with local communities, thorough formal and informal communication mechanisms. This allows us to address specific issues and concerns as they arise. In addition, more formal grievance mechanisms have been established at a number of sites.
Social Impact Assessments also help us to identify sustainable development opportunities in the communities where we operate. Barrick’s sustainable development programs typically contribute to educational and health service improvements in communities around our mining operations. As well, we assist with non-mining related economic development and community initiatives, hire locally and purchase goods and services in the region whenever possible. In this way, Barrick ensures that local community members share in the benefits of mining.