The Secretariat supports its members to advance sustainable development objectives through effective mining policies and laws with its flagship Mining Policy Framework (MPF). The MPF represents the best practices required for good environmental, social, and economic governance of the mining sector, and the generation and equitable sharing of benefits in a manner that will contribute to sustainable development.
Tabled in May 2011 at the 19th session of the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD19) in New York, the framework was presented as a compendium of best practices for governments to manage the full range of issues in the mining sector. Delegates to CSD19 recognized the MPF as a way to provide a systemic approach for developing mining in accordance with sustainable development principles.
As a policy guidance tool, the MPF outlines international best practices throughout the full mining life cycle in six pillars of mining law and policy. The MPF is available in English, French, Spanish and Russian.
Six Pillars of the Mining Policy Framework
1. Legal and Policy Environment
A modern legislative regime for mining draws clear lines of responsibility and accountability while establishing a foundation of good governance for economic, environmental, and social prosperity.
2. Financial Benefit Optimization
Taxes and royalty revenues from mining operations help governments fund critical programs and services, including health care, infrastructure, and environmental management.
3. Socio-economic Benefit Optimization
Mining investment can play a role in achieving a country’s national development objectives while supporting livelihoods and economic security for workers and communities.
4. Environmental Management
The responsible management of natural resources and ecosystems—including soils, plants, animals, water, and air, and the services they provide—underpins the health of communities and economies and for society to thrive over the long term.
5. Post-Mining Transition
Well-planned and executed mine closure and post-mining land use help governments ensure environmental integrity and the well-being of communities.
6. Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining
Effective artisanal and small-scale mining management can help governments formalize operations to support better environment and social outcomes, including decent livelihoods, gender equality, and environmental protection for affected communities.
Implementing the Mining Policy Framework to Strengthen Governance Efforts
The IGF Secretariat’s team of experts work with member governments to apply the MPF in two phases: first is an MPF Assessment followed by capacity building and technical assistance.
Phase 1: MPF Assessments
Our team collaborates with governments to identify strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in existing mining laws, policies, and regulations and provide recommendations for improvement based on the best practices presented in the MPF. The assessment process involves desk-based research, a comprehensive review of policy documents, mine site visits, and extensive in-person consultations with stakeholders from government, civil society, and the private sector.
Once the assessment report has been drafted and validated by the government, it is published and disseminated for use by the Government, civil society, and the private sector and by IGF members for peer learning.
Phase 2: Capacity Building and Technical Assistance
The Secretariat works collaboratively with members to advise and lead workshops with government officials focused on tailored capacity building and technical assistance to address the gaps identified in the MPF assessment. These activities are designed to leave governments better equipped with the knowledge and tools to improve mining sector governance.
