Business and indigenous peoples: from paternalism to partnership

At the International Forum, which was held in Moscow, representatives of government, business and indigenous peoples met to discuss innovations in business relations with indigenous peoples.

"It is important for us to move from paternalism to cooperation, to partnership. Moreover, this partnership should be absolutely equal and adequate. And there can be equal cooperation only when the principle of "Nothing for us without us" is practically applied. That is, when business does not impose its will on indigenous peoples, but speaks to them in the language of equals, does everything to ensure that they are as socially protected as possible," commented Andrey Grachev, Vice President for Federal and Regional Programs of Norilsk Nickel.

Norilsk Nickel's partner programs are aimed at the socio-economic development of indigenous peoples. The company creates conditions for the implementation of traditional environmental management by communities, builds housing and supports the development of human capital — language and culture.

The forum participants also discussed the best practices of interaction between industrial companies and indigenous peoples, noting the principle of free, prior and informed consent (SPOS) as an opportunity to build trusting relationships.

"The task of the forum is to create a nationwide platform for discussion and development of certain recommendations and solutions," said Igor Barinov, Head of the Federal Agency for Nationalities Affairs.