The extractive sector is an enormous part of the Canadian economy, with 70% of the world’s mining companies and 70% of the world’s free-enterprise oil located within our borders. In 2011, natural resources industries indirectly and indirectly employed approximately 1.6 million people and contributed close to 20% of Canada’s GDP. Canadian mining companies have a large presence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Given the size, influence, and economic power of the Canadian extractive sector and the scope of their operations, solutions must be found regarding how to make their operations both more environmentally sustainable and socially ethical.
STAND – McGill wishes to provide the space for in-depth discussion on the future of the extractive sector in the DRC through a forum-style conference. We are gathering expert voices for interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge sharing on one of the most important public policy issues Canada faces today.
Conference format/schedule:
– Film screening of « Crisis in the Congo: Uncovering the Truth »
– Guest lecture by Friends of the Congo (http://
– Speaker panel with moderated debate (and Q&A)
– Topical workshops in working groups to produce exportable responsible mining advocacy tools.
Workshops:
1) Reconciling Artisanal Mining (ASM) and Large-Scale Mining (LSM)
2) Conflict Minerals and Resource Wars: Rebel Activity, Smuggling, and Instrumentalization of Corruption
3) Women and DRC conflict: Rape as Weapon of War
4) Canadian Mining: The Future of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
5) Canadian and US Legislation: Where Does Responsible Mining Fit In?
6) Art as Socio-Political Resistance: Learning from Art(ivists)
There will also be a Congolese lunch served and catered by Gracia Afrika (http://graciaafrika.com/).
[ENTRANCE & FOOD IS FREE]Location:
New Chancellor day Hall, Mc Gill University.
845 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest, Montréal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada
