Following the conclusion of a Mining Policy Framework (MPF) assessment for Mexico, the IGF held a workshop in Mexico City on July 18–21, 2022, to support government officials in identifying and building capacity in important mining policy areas.
Drawing on recommendations from the forthcoming MPF assessment report, the workshop focused on the topics of Indigenous consultation and mine closure. The IGF’s Mining ESIA Tool (MET) was also an integral part of the workshop, allowing for a broader discussion on a wide range of aspects relating to the country’s legal and policy framework, as well as mining’s environmental and social impacts throughout the mining life cycle.
The workshop was attended by roughly 20 participants from different government agencies, mining clusters, the Mexican mining chamber, the private sector, and universities in Mexico, including representatives of the following institutions, among others:
- Secretaría de Economia
- Secretaría de Economía Sonora
- Secretaría de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales
- Gobierno del Estado de Sonora
- Cluster Minero de Chihuahua
- CAMIMEX
- CIMA Consultores Ambientales
- Agnico Eagle Mines
- Grupo México
- Grupo Sierra Madre
- Servicio Geológico Mexicano
- Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León
The workshop discussed Indigenous consultation mechanisms and successful global cases of Indigenous consultation in relation to the extractives industry. The workshop also highlighted the need and opportunities for the central government to work together with regional entities such as mining clusters (that include mining companies, suppliers, and educational institutions), regional governments, and Indigenous communities and their representatives to improve consultation processes in the country.
On mine closure, the workshop raised awareness about the importance of key procedures and policies for successful post-mining transitions and the need to integrate closure requirements early in the environmental impact assessment process for mining projects. Participants shared their experiences and discussed suitable tools and legal instruments for regulating closure plans, estimating costs, and establishing financial guarantees.
The IGF Secretariat will continue to support Mexico in improving its protocols and guidelines on Indigenous consultation and mine closure requirements as part of our support following the MPF assessment.