2012 Theses Master's

Planning for Resettled Communities: A Study of International Regulations in the Extractive Industries in Ghana

Paek, Jae Young

The wealth generated by the mining sector comes at a substantial developmental cost, along with environmental damages and economic exclusion of the marginalized. This has led to new ways of thinking in which mineral wealth can be converted into sustainable development benefits for local communities. Understanding how international regulations on resettlement induced by the extractive industries are interpreted and implemented by multinational mining corporations is essential in understanding what is essential for elucidating effective balanced power dynamics and benefit sharing in mineral extraction. This study looks at how IFC guidelines are implemented while elucidating the limitations to them. The study further recommends how resettlement regulations can change in a way for more socially responsible firm behavior and benefit sharing.