20130602-世界经济论坛-Natural_Riches_Perspectives_on_Responsible_Natural_Resource_Management_in_Conflict-affected_Countries_60页_1mb

Summary: Natural Riches? Perspectives on Responsible Natural Resource Management in Conflict-affected Countries

This report examines the relationship between responsible natural resource management (NRM) and conflict prevention in resource-rich countries undergoing political transitions, like Myanmar. It highlights that poorly managed resources, through mechanisms like corruption, uneven development, and environmental degradation, contribute significantly to social unrest and conflict. Conversely, responsible NRM, characterized by equitable revenue distribution, transparency, strong institutions, community engagement, and environmental protection, can foster peace, stability, and prosperity.

Key principles and practices identified for responsible NRM include:

• Do-no-harm approach: Avoids exacerbating existing risk factors by ensuring benefits are broadly shared and mitigation plans are in place.
• Transparency and Accountability: Essential for building trust and reducing instability. Mechanisms like the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) promote revenue tracking. Clear legal frameworks, contract design, and stakeholder consultations (free, prior informed consent where relevant) are mandated.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Inclusive dialogue platforms at national and local levels are critical for integrating community concerns, preventing grievances, and building consensus. Regular community engagement, grievance mechanisms, and dispute resolution are emphasized.
• Institutional Framework: Robust legal and regulatory systems are needed. Strengthening government capacity and multistakeholder frameworks facilitate responsible resource exploitation.
• Environmental Management: Proper impact assessment, conservation measures, and sustainable practices must be integrated.
• Security and Human Rights: Companies and governments must minimize risks, ensure security aligns with human rights standards, train staff, and engage with conflict prevention.
• Economic Development: Linkages with broader economic goals, diversification beyond resource extraction, local content, and capacity building support sustainable growth.

The report stresses that effective resource exploitation requires balancing immediate economic gains with long-term development, peacebuilding, and environmental protection. It calls for tailored context-specific approaches, international cooperation (e.g., UN, OECD standards), and the creation of environments where all stakeholders benefit. In Myanmar, steps are underway to implement reforms, including EITI adoption, new investment policies, and revised community participation regulations.

Ultimately, successful NRM depends on consensus-building, adherence to international best practices, and genuine dialogue, ensuring natural riches contribute to sustainable peace and development.