Session Description
As impact assessment (IA) continues to evolve globally, there is increasing recognition that many of the challenges associated with resource development arise from assessment approaches that have traditionally focused on ecological impacts while giving less attention to the socio-economic, cultural, and governance dimensions that are central to Indigenous communities. Research and experience from Indigenous peoples have highlighted that conventional assessment frameworks often struggle to adequately capture impacts on cultural continuity, traditional livelihoods, Indigenous governance systems, connections to land and water, community wellbeing, and intergenerational knowledge transfer. A review of past assessment practices has reinforced a critical lesson: meaningful inclusion cannot be achieved through consultation alone.
Against this backdrop, the session examines the importance of developing and applying Indigenous-informed frameworks and indicators for assessing the impact of resource development on Indigenous lands and communities. Drawing on communities’ experiences with mining, forestry, and other resource development activities across diverse territories, panelists will explore practical approaches for identifying indicators and measurement parameters that reflect Indigenous priorities, values, and knowledge systems. Discussion will focus on strategies that support Indigenous-led IA processes and strengthen communities’ participation in resource development decision-making. The session provides a forum for sharing experiences and practices and identifying pathways toward inclusive, culturally grounded, and Indigenous-led approaches to IA and resource management.
Session Summary
Join us for a panel discussion on advancing Indigenous-led approaches to impact assessment, including the development of Indigenous-led indicators and meaningful participation in resource development decisions that affect their lands and communities.
Additional Information
N/A
Session Chair
Effah Kwabena Antwi
Department of Natural Resources (Canada)
Canada
Session Co-chair
Priscilla Yohuno
Department of Natural Resources (Canada)
Canada