2012年-世界发展银行全球_Social_Assessment_of_Area_of_Influence___Togolok_Deposit_63页_4mb

Social Assessment of Area of Influence: Togolok Deposit

Introduction

This report presents the findings of a social research study conducted in the Akshiyrak Aiyl Okmotu of Kyrgyzstan (located in the Jeti-Oguz raion, Issykkul province). The research aimed to assess the current social situation in Akshiyrak and the potential social, economic, and ecological impacts of the Togolok gold deposit mining project. The findings will be used by the World Bank to support the Government of Kyrgyzstan in the tender process for the Togolok gold deposit.

Mining in Kyrgyzstan has historically been a source of both positive and negative impacts on local communities. The report highlights the importance of community engagement in the mining industry to ensure sustainable development, poverty reduction, and environmental protection. The study includes a desk review, fieldwork, and validation workshops with local residents and stakeholders.

Summary of Findings

Key Social and Economic Issues in Akshiyrak

• Lack of ownership over territory
• Poor roads and bridges
• Limited communication and transport services
• Inadequate gas, clean water, and modern heating systems
• Poor social facilities
• Lack of service facilities
• Limited businesses
• Few employment opportunities

Potential Positive Impacts of the Mine

• Employment opportunities for the local population
• Improved infrastructure
• Enhanced social services
• Increased supply of goods and services
• Promotion of local entrepreneurship

Potential Negative Impacts of the Mine

• Risk of social conflict due to land disputes
• Perceived or actual ecological impacts that may cause unrest
• Underemployment of local people
• Overpopulation by outsiders
• Protests if a Chinese mining company is selected

Key Sections of the Report

1. Overview of Community Engagement in Mining Areas in Kyrgyzstan

   • Discusses the importance of community engagement in mining projects for sustainable development.
   • Reviews the legal framework, including the Aarhus Convention principles and relevant Kyrgyz laws.

2. The Local Area and the Potential Influence of a Mine

   • Describes the unique characteristics of Akshiyrak, such as its remoteness, small size, and proximity to China.
   • Highlights the community's current challenges and how the mine could affect them.

3. Potential Social and Economic Impacts

   • Examines the possible benefits and drawbacks of the mine on the community's social and economic conditions.

4. Potential Environmental Problems

   • Identifies the environmental risks associated with mining, including pollution and resource depletion.

5. Interrelation of Social and Environmental Impacts

   • Explores how environmental issues can lead to social unrest and affect community livelihoods.

6. Recommendations

   • Suggests that the mining project should be implemented in accordance with international standards of socially responsible mining.
   • Emphasizes the need for transparency, public participation, and access to justice.
   • Advocates for the involvement of the government, local authorities, mining company, and the local community in the planning, implementation, and monitoring of the project.

7. Research Methodology

   • Details the approach used, including desk studies, fieldwork, and validation workshops.

Core Content and Main Points

• Mining in Kyrgyzstan

  • The mining sector is crucial to Kyrgyzstan's economy, particularly for gold and other metals.
  • The industry has a long history, with many enterprises dating back to the Soviet era.
  • Post-independence, the mining sector has faced challenges, including economic decline and reduced support for local communities.

• Community Engagement

  • The Aarhus Convention provides a legal and ethical framework for community involvement in mining.
  • Kyrgyzstan has laws that support citizens' rights to information, public participation, and access to justice.
  • However, these laws are not always effectively implemented in practice.

• Current Mining Practices

  • Mining companies have historically provided jobs, infrastructure, and social services.
  • After the collapse of the Soviet Union, many companies ceased operations or reduced their activities, leading to a decline in local support and economic benefits.

• Special Case of Akshiyrak

  • Akshiyrak is a remote and small community, which makes it particularly vulnerable to the impacts of mining.
  • The community has limited access to basic services and infrastructure, and the potential for a mine to improve these is seen as a significant benefit.
  • There is a risk of social conflict, especially if the mine is operated by a Chinese company.

Key Recommendations

• Adhere to international standards of socially responsible mining
• Ensure transparency and public participation in decision-making
• Respect community rights to information and access to justice
• Provide fair compensation and benefits for any changes or damages to the community
• Recognize and address gender and labor rights
• Involve all relevant stakeholders in planning, implementation, and monitoring
• Enhance communication and collaboration between the government, mining companies, and local communities

Conclusion

The report underscores the importance of community engagement in mining projects to maximize benefits and minimize conflicts. It highlights the need for a balanced approach that respects the rights of local populations and ensures sustainable development. The findings provide a basis for the World Bank to advise the Kyrgyz Republic on the Togolok gold deposit tender process, emphasizing the integration of social and environmental considerations.