Beyond was in Armenia to participate in an event hosted by the Council of Europe, Grant Thornton Armenia and the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) where experts gathered to discuss how to align mining practices with sustainability and human rights standards.
Anaïs Tobalagba, PhD, Beyond’s Natural Resources Lead, shared insights into:
1/ Risks and challenges in the area of human rights in mining operations – she addressed the growing complexity of diversifying mineral supply chains amid the surge in demand for transition minerals, as well as the urgent need for robust and context-sensitive heightened human rights due diligence in context of geopolitical instability, where mining operations are increasingly expanding into conflict-affected and high-risk areas.
2/ Common impacts of mining on local communities – she emphasised the importance of recognising both environmental and labour-related risks. Mining companies must uphold the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment and ensure that workers earn a living wage. These are not optional – they are fundamental human and environmental rights that must be integrated into responsible business conduct.
Grateful to the organisers for this timely and important dialogue, and to all the participants for the inspiring exchanges.