Site-Induced Migration

Challenge the practice is addressing: The Site-Induced Migration (SIM) section explains what kind of potential impacts, risks and opportunities are associated with in-migration to and out-migration from the mining area. It also provides guidance on mitigating potential risks and negative impacts of SIM. SIM is perceived as the movement of people induced by the opportunities provided by the operations at mining sites. Closure of the mining site may likewise induce out-migration from the area.

Concrete practice to achieve the expected goal: The guidance section is based on the Anglo American Plan Do Check Act management process. In this section, the planning phase is emphasized – when developing a management plan, historical and present population movements and potential hotspots should be analyzed. After that, the team responsible for planning should prepare a forecast for site-induced migration, conduct stakeholder engagement and finally develop a SIM Management Plan which is followed by implementation, monitoring, and evaluation processes and potential adjustments. The SIM section includes a tool with an example of a Table of Contents for a SIM management plan. It also lays down a chart for the division of internal roles and responsibilities in managing SIM.

Expected impact/goal of the practice: SIM, if left unmitigated, has the potential to have substantial detrimental societal and environmental consequences. The goal of this section is to provide a holistic approach to assisting businesses in developing and implementing efficient SIM management policies and processes.

Who is the target user group of the practice/intervention or implementing the practice/intervention? The target group of the practice is mine site staff, especially the general managers and social performance management teams.